[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 147 (2001), Part 12]
[Senate]
[Page 16590]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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               50TH ANNIVERSARY OF AL-ANON FAMILY GROUPS

 Mr. WELLSTONE. Mr. President, today I congratulate Al-Anon 
Family Groups on their 50th anniversary and to acknowledge their 
contributions to many individuals, families and communities who come 
together to support those in recovery from alcohol addiction. The Al-
Anon Family Groups have been a source of help and hope for families and 
friends of alcoholics for 50 years in communities throughout the United 
States and worldwide. Although Al-Anon, and its group for younger 
members, Alateen, have their roots in the United States, there are now 
over 26,000 Al-Anon and Alateen groups around the world in 115 
countries.
  The theme for the September 2001 National Alcohol and Drug Addiction 
Recovery Month is ``We Recover Together: Family, Friends and 
Community,'' with its clear message that we need to work together to 
promote treatment for alcohol and drug addiction throughout our 
country. The Al-Anon Family Groups is an outstanding example of how a 
community can support the families, friends and communities of those 
who are in recovery from addiction.
  Scientific research has shown us the devastation that alcohol 
addiction can have on the brain and the biological systems of the body. 
But addiction can also damage souls, relationships, families and 
communities. Effective treatments can help those with addiction 
illnesses, but it is through the support of groups like Al-Anon that 
communities and families can join together to make recovery work well 
for everyone who is affected.
  I urge my colleagues to join me in recognizing Al-Anon Family Groups 
for the work they have done to help the countless numbers of those 
whose lives have been affected by addiction. With treatment and 
support, people can recover from alcohol addiction, and make positive 
contributions to their families, workplaces, communities, state and 
nation. Through the support offered by Al-Anon and Alateen, families 
and friends of those with addiction illnesses can find the support they 
need in their lives as well.


  With gratitude and respect for the work they do, I offer my 
congratulations to Al-Anon Family Groups on their 50th 
anniversary.

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