Our story
The White House has been a home for recovery in Des Moines since 1977. A place where anyone seeking sobriety — or supporting someone who is — can walk through the door and find a seat.
Why we exist
The Alano Society, Inc. exists under the laws of the State of Iowa as a nonprofit corporation for the sole purpose of supporting, aiding, and assisting persons who are members of Alcoholics Anonymous and Al‑Anon Family Groups.
We maintain the headquarters at 1400 Pennsylvania Avenue — commonly known as “The White House” — as a gathering place for meetings, social events, and fellowship. The club operates entirely through the voluntary efforts and contributions of its members.
“The Alano Society was developed to be able to own a place for Al‑Anon and AA to meet.” The Alano Society, Inc.
Nearly fifty years of service
The initial Board of Trustees election was held in 1977, establishing the Alano Society as a formal organization serving the Des Moines recovery community. The Articles of Incorporation were ratified by General Membership on July 26, 2020.
Over the decades, the White House has been home to countless meetings, social events, and community gatherings. It is a place with real history and real stories — maintained by the people it serves.
Governance
Membership body
Alano Society members approved by the Board of Directors. Requires 1 year of sobriety, regular attendance, contribution to the club, and a written application. Members vote in elections and ratify bylaws.
Board of Directors
9 members: President, 1st VP, 2nd VP, Secretary, Treasurer, and 4 Members-at-Large. Handles regular business, property maintenance, and manages the space.
Board of Trustees
5 members serving staggered 5-year terms. Handles major financial decisions, expenditures over $1,500, and acts as final authority on disputes.
Officers & positions
President
Supervises administration and operations. Presides over Board meetings. Supervisory authority over the caretaker. Elected in even years for a 2-year term.
First Vice President
Authorized to perform presidential duties upon death or resignation. May countersign checks when authorized in writing. Elected in odd years.
Second Vice President
Performs duties of President or 1st VP in event of vacancy. May not countersign checks. Elected in even years.
Secretary
Records minutes of all Board meetings. Maintains membership records. Handles government reports and communications. Elected in odd years.
Treasurer
Receives and safeguards all funds. Maintains checking account. Provides monthly financial reports. Manages the operating fund. Elected in even years.
Members-at-Large (4 positions)
Same voting rights as officers. One-year terms. Elections held in November.
Current members
Five members elected for staggered 5-year terms. One new member elected each July. Requires 5 years of sobriety.
| Member | Term began |
|---|---|
| Jade L. | 2023 |
| Lee Ann F. | 2024 |
| Stacie S. | 2025 |
| Brad V. | 2026 |
| Jessica B. | 2027 |
Bylaws & governing documents
The following documents are available for download by members and interested parties.