The American River Alano is an outside organization, separate and distinct from any 12 Step Group or treatment facility Although membership is not required to attend meetings, the meeting facility is primarily supported by membership Each meeting held at the Alano is conducted by an autonomous group, and each group pays rent to the Alano to help with expenses Rent contributes approximate 35% of the Alano's needs The other 65% must come from membership or outside donations Membership in the American River Alano is independent of membership in any of the various organizations that use the facilities for their meetingsMembership is voluntary and open to all Members include anyone who supports the objectives of the Alano