In AA and Al-Anon, a conference or convention is an important opportunity to share in recovery in a broad way. There are many AA and Al-Anon conferences held around the world. One of the most common misconceptions of these gatherings is that they are AA or Al-Anon meetings, and since “There are no dues or fees for AA membership…” there should be no fees to attend. Conventions and conferences are special events, not regular meetings.
Conferences require months of planning, preparation, and money to present. Since most events, such as ours, are held in hotels or convention centers, there is a charge for the use of these facilities and lodging. As responsible AA and Al-Anon members, “we pay our own way.” Our contractual commitment to the resort company requires us to guarantee a minimum number of hotel rooms and banquet sales. We are also charged for coffee service and food & beverage in the hospitality area throughout the week.
Other expenses include travel and lodging for conference speakers, printing of flyers and schedules, postage and supplies.
This conference is self-supporting; no AA or Al-Anon group monies are used to pay for this event. The cost of the event is paid through your registration fee, participation in our events and contributions from individual AA or Al-Anon members, usually in the form of service. Attendance is voluntary, and as responsible AA and Al-Anon members, we pay our own way. Our financial goal is to break even; therefore we ask your help in meeting this goal by booking rooms in the hotel. We hope you agree the overall cost is nominal compared to the week’s worth of fellowship, fun, entertainment and recovery you will experience.