Moderation Management (MM) began in 1994, founded by Audrey Kishline as a unique alternative in the world of recovery. Her vision was to create a supportive community for people seeking to moderate their drinking, rather than abstain completely. Audrey’s approach, published in her book Moderate Drinking: The New Option for Problem Drinkers, offered a fresh perspective on addressing alcohol use—a path based on mindfulness, personal responsibility, and support for those who wanted to find balance without quitting entirely.

Audrey’s journey with MM took a tragic turn in 2000, when a relapse led to a devastating accident. This incident cast a shadow over MM’s early years, and many questioned the viability of moderation as an approach to alcohol recovery. But this challenging moment did not define MM’s entire story. With resilience and commitment, MM’s members, volunteers, and leaders persevered, continuing to offer support through in-person meetings and online communities such as the Forum and Listserv.

MM’s evolution continued as it embraced the digital age. Although smaller in reach than larger abstinence-based organizations, MM’s communities continued to grow, offering a safe and accepting space for those seeking moderation as their goal. By 2019, MM had stepped into the  social media space, and introduced its first private Facebook group. Despite initial concerns about privacy, the group has become MM’s largest and most vibrant community, significantly increasing MM’s reach and accessibility. 

In 2020 the COVID-19 pandemic created the opportunity for online meetings to emerge, allowing people from anywhere in the world to give and receive support to each other. Today, MM hosts over 30 online meetings per week, while the interest returning to in-person meetings continues to rise.

Today, MM stands as a testament to resilience. In recent years, MM’s partnerships with moderation-friendly organizations and the rise of the “sober curious” movement have brought renewed interest and increased membership. The Kickstart Moderation program was launched in 2021, offering a month-long introduction to MM’s tools and strategies, making support more accessible than ever. 

MM’s journey has been marked by both challenges and triumphs, but  continues to thrive because of a strong foundation and the dedication of countless volunteers and members. We believe moderation is a valid, effective choice, and we’re proud to offer a supportive community where members can pursue a balanced relationship with alcohol. MM’s story is proof that moderation works, and we remain committed to helping individuals reclaim control over their lives, one mindful choice at a time.