Here is a list of some of the commonly used Al-Anon terms, and their definitions, that you might hear at meetings and in discussions with other Al-Anon members.
- Al-Anon Member Involved in Alateen Service
This is an an Al-Anon member who is currently certified through their Area Alateen process and is therefore eligible to be directly responsible for Alateens while being of service to Alateen, including service as an instant or temporary Alateen Group Sponsor.
- Closed Meeting
A closed meeting is for Al-Anon members and prospective members only. Anyone who has been affected by someone else's drinking is welcome.
- Conference Approved Literature (CAL)
The CAL process ensures that ideas for literature be authorized by the Conference and that designated Al-Anon members, Delegates, WSO staff, and volunteers review the material before publication and/or production.
- Current Mailing Address (CMA)
The Current Mailing Address receives the group mail from the WSO and takes it to the group. District 8 maintains a post office box that most groups in the District choose to use are their CMA.
- District
The District is a geographical segment containing a number of groups, located relatively close to one another. Group Representatives attend district meetings to discuss business matters, and share their group experiences with each other. Al-Anon meetings in the Santa Barbara and the Santa Ynez Valley areas comprise District 8.
- Open Meeting
At open meetings, we welcome visitors seeking information about Al-Anon as well as newcomers and members of Al-Anon.
- Personal Sponsor
A Sponsor someone with whom a member can work the 12 steps and confidentially discuss personal problems or questions and someone who willingly shares the experience, strength, and hope of the Al-Anon program.
- Service Sponsor
A Service Sponsor guides a member in applying the Traditions and Concepts of Service and shares experience, strength, and hope while giving service to Al-Anon.
- Three Legacies
The Twelve Steps, Twelve Traditions, and Twelve Concepts of Service are the Three Legacies. The cover the aspects, respectively, of recovery, unity and service.
- World Service Office (WSO)
The WSO is the principal service center of the fellowship, and acts in conformity with the wishes of the Conference. It publishes all Conference Approved Literature (CAL). Many functions and activities of the fellowship circulate through this office. It is the center, not the head; it serves but does not control or direct. The relationship of the WSO to the groups is fully explained in "Al-Anon's Twelve Concepts of Service."
Source: 2010-2013 Al-Anon/Alateen Service Manual