For many, experiencing unexplained phenomena can be a deeply isolating event. Whether it’s a mysterious encounter with extraterrestrial beings, strange occurrences that defy logical explanation, or moments that leave people questioning the fabric of reality itself, the fear of ridicule often keeps these experiences in the shadows. Too often, those who encounter such events keep quiet, fearing rejection or misunderstanding from the world around them.
But in December 2024, something changed. Bill Rountree, an individual whose own encounters with extraterrestrial life span over fifty years, took a monumental step in giving these experiences a voice. He founded the International Association of Alien Contactees (IAOAC), a space designed for those who have experienced the unexplained to come together, share their stories, and find support in a non-judgmental community.
Rountree, whose 2023 memoir Aliens Are With Us: What I Learned from Experiences Spanning Fifty Years detailed his own encounters, had long known the power of sharing one’s truth. After publishing his book, he was flooded with messages from others who had lived through similar experiences — yet remained silent out of fear. This inspired him to create the IAOAC, where individuals could explore their experiences, gain understanding, and connect with others who truly understand their journeys.
A Sanctuary for the Silent
The IAOAC wasn’t just created to be a support group, it was born out of necessity. Many individuals who have encountered extraterrestrial life, strange phenomena, or unexplained experiences often feel like they have nowhere to turn. Sharing these experiences can be daunting, and the stigma surrounding them only adds to the isolation. Rountree recognized that these experiences weren’t something to hide but something to embrace. “These stories deserve to be shared and examined,” he says. “Doing so can lead to personal growth and understanding.”
The association provides a safe space where members can connect without the fear of ridicule or dismissal. It’s not about proving the existence of extraterrestrials or paranormal activity; it’s about offering a platform for those who have experienced it to be heard and understood. The IAOAC fosters a respectful and inclusive environment where individuals from all walks of life can find solace in knowing that they are not alone in their encounters.
For many, simply knowing that others share similar experiences can be life-changing. The IAOAC offers a forum where these individuals can exchange ideas, find emotional support, and, perhaps most importantly, gain clarity on what they have lived through. “There are so many people out there who fear sharing their truth,” says Rountree. “The IAOAC is a place where they can finally speak openly without the threat of being judged.”
The Journey of Empowerment and Exploration
The mission of the IAOAC goes beyond validation. It’s also about empowerment. Rountree believes that by providing a space where people can share their encounters, they can better understand the profound impact these experiences may have on their lives. And in that process, it becomes easier to embrace these experiences, rather than shying away from them.
But the organization isn’t just about telling stories. It’s about exploring the meaning behind those experiences and helping members make sense of them. The IAOAC offers resources such as books, articles, and expert insights to help individuals explore the psychological, emotional, and even social impacts of their encounters. These resources are designed to give context and help people navigate the complexities of their experiences in a more informed and insightful way.
“We want to help people make sense of what happened to them,” says Rountree. “Our goal is not just to listen, but to help people gain a deeper understanding of their experiences and what they can learn from them.”
A Vision of Education and Connection
One of the key pillars of the IAOAC is its commitment to education. As part of its mission to broaden the conversation about unexplained phenomena, the organization will host its first live conference in Fall 2025 in the Atlanta, Georgia area. The conference will feature speakers from various fields, including psychology, research, and education, all of whom will discuss the different dimensions of unexplained experiences. The event will be accessible online as well, ensuring a global audience can engage with the material.
In addition to the conference, the IAOAC is committed to supporting its members in sharing their stories through various media channels. This includes books, documentaries, and articles that give voice to those whose encounters are often kept in the shadows. By encouraging these individuals to share their experiences, the IAOAC provides a platform that elevates these stories and fosters a deeper understanding of the unexplained.
“The goal is to create a space where people can tell their stories in a respectful and educational environment,” says Rountree. “It’s about starting a larger conversation and showing the world that these experiences are real, and they deserve to be heard.”
Fostering a Global Community of Understanding
As the IAOAC grows, its impact is already being felt worldwide. The organization’s mission is simple yet powerful: to create a space where individuals can come together, share their experiences, and begin the journey toward understanding. The IAOAC is reaching out to people from all walks of life — from everyday individuals to healthcare professionals and educators — to help foster a global community of understanding.
Through education, outreach, and community-building, the IAOAC aims to shift the narrative around unexplained phenomena. Rather than perpetuating stigma or disbelief, the organization works to create a culture of acceptance, where people can engage in open discussions about their encounters without fear. By providing resources, support, and opportunities for connection, the IAOAC is empowering individuals to embrace their experiences and explore them without hesitation.
“The more we talk about these experiences, the more we normalize them,” Rountree says. “This is just the beginning. The more people come together, the more we can build a community of understanding, acceptance, and growth.”
For more information about the International Association of Alien Contactees, visit IAOAC Website. Additional resources, including Rountree’s book, Aliens Are With Us, can be found on Aliens Are With Us and TikTok.
