Philosophy and Purpose

The Purpose of the Fall Classic is to carry the message of Alcoholics Anonymous by holding an annual conference to promote the spiritual and social welfare of alcoholics and those interested in recovery.

Our History

In 1983, members of Group 266 ("Saturday Night Live"), after holding several successful dances, formed a committee to sponsor an AA Conference. As a result the first Fall Classic Conference was held in the fall of 1983. Each year since, a group generally known as the Fall Classic Committee ("Committee") has held a conference in St. Louis on Labor Day weekend. During the year dances are held in conjunction with Saturday Night Live to help pay for the conference. For many in the recovering community, the Fall Classic has become an annual part of their lives.

Structure and Organization

The Fall Classic is an AA conference organized along the "Guidelines for Conferences and Conventions" of Alcoholics Anonymous, and reflects the guidance of the Twelve Traditions. In accordance with the concept of no affiliation, members of Al-Anon are invited to participate by planning their own part of the program.

To appropriately handle the business aspects of the conference, and to preserve its continuity, the Committee formed the Fall Classic Conference, Inc., a Missouri not for profit corporation in 1991. The articles of incorporation and the by-laws formalized the traditions that had evolved.

The Corporation is managed by a four member board of directors elected by the Committee to serve two year, staggered terms. The Committee also elects a conference chairperson who serves as the president of the corporation for a one year term. the chair person appoints the heads of the various committees. No board member receives a salary. This structure allows for a regular change of leadership, and service opportunities for other members.

Although the board of directors runs the corporation, and the president and the committee are generally responsible for the details of the convention, it is understood that all are members of the Fall Classic Committee and but trusted servants.

Membership

The only requirements for membership in the Fall Classic Committee are a desire to stop drinking and participation in the Committee activities. There are no dues or fees or membership certificates. The only compensation for being on the committee is sobriety. Over the years, the Fall Classic has provided many with a chance to get involved. Whether you are a newcomer or an old-timer you are welcome to join the committee.