The goal of the American Livebearer Association is to gather, organize and disseminate the knowledge of livebearers, to promote fellowship among members, and to further the conservation of species and their natural habitat.

Membership in the ALA is open to any interested club, individual or household on a yearly or multi-year basis, and is non-transferable. This membership entitles members to the bi-monthly publication Livebearers, the right to advertise in The Livebearers Trader, purchase items from the various committees, receive all special publications, receive one of each election ballot issued, and the right to vote and hold an official position - either appointed (committee) or elected (Board of Directors) - in the ALA during the time their membership is in effect.