Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. There are no dues or fees for AA membership; we are self-supporting through our own contributions. AA is not allied with any sect, denomination, politics, organization or institution; does not wish to engage in any controversy; neither endorses or opposes any causes. Our primary purpose is to stay sober and help other alcoholics to achieve sobriety.

– the AA Preamble *

What does AA do?

The primary purpose of AA is to carry our message of recovery to the alcoholic seeking help. Together we can do what none of us could accomplish alone- through sharing our mutual experience we provide ongoing support for each other.

The AA program, set forth in the Twelve Steps, offers the alcoholic a way to develop a satisfying life without alcohol.

Everyone’s AA program is unique but most members find that going to meetings, having a sponsor, working the 12 steps and being of service to others are core elements of their program.

In Lane County, AA members can participate in open, closed and speaker meetings. While most members seek a sponsor from within AA, others may use trusted individuals from other aspects of their life. Most members find that their ability to live joyfully and successfully without alcohol is correlated with their willingness to ‘work’ the 12 Steps. There are many ways to be in service to others – most members learn about these in meetings and/or with their sponsors. You can also learn about these opportunities by clicking on the EVI Info link at the top of this page.

How do I find a meeting?

You can find A.A. meetings all over Lane County, and often at a variety of times and locations to suit any schedule. Call the EVI office at 541-342-4113 or search for meetings on this website. Many meetings provide printed meeting guides.

Who can attend an AA meeting?

You can! Meetings sometimes are classified as ‘open’ or ‘closed’. Most AA meetings are ‘open’ – meaning anyone, including those who do not identify as an alcoholic, can attend. Some meetings are ‘closed’ – meaning anyone who has a desire to stop drinking can attend. Do not let these distinctions prevent you from going to any meeting, you will be welcome.

Once you get to the meeting, you will notice that most of us identify ourselves by our first name, and the fact that we are alcoholics. If you are not an alcoholic, or not sure, feel free to identify yourself as a visitor. We strongly encourage you to say hello and chat with a few folks before or after the meeting. We believe you will find that any AA member will be happy to answer any questions, no matter how simple, or how personal or difficult. We stay sober by sharing our experience.

There are no dues or fees for AA meetings, and anonymity is a practice and a tradition in AA.

What doesn’t AA do? AA Does Not:

1. Furnish initial motivation for alcoholics to recover
2. Solicit members
3. Engage in or sponsor research
4. Keep attendance records or case histories
5. Join “councils” of social agencies
6. Follow up or try to control its members
7. Make medical or psychological diagnoses or prognoses
8. Provide drying-out or nursing services, hospitalization, drugs, or any medical or psychiatric treatment facilities.
9. Offer religious services
10. Engage in education about alcohol
11. Provide housing, food, clothing, jobs, money, or any other welfare or social services
12. Provide domestic or vocational counseling
13. Accept any money for its services, or any contributions from non-A.A. sources
14. Provide letters of reference to parole boards, lawyers, court officials, social agencies, employers, etc.

Concerned with someone else’s drinking?

You may want to contact Al-anon; a 12-step organization for family and friends of Alcoholics. Al-Anon has a website at Al-Anon.org. We find it does little good to try to push or drag a problem drinker into AA – they have to want it for themselves.

A few common AA references:

AA – Alcoholics Anonymous organization

Big Book – the standard ‘text’ book of AA

12×12 ,12&12 or 12 by 12 – Another standard ‘text’ book – with more detailed information on the 12 steps and traditions

The Steps – the 12 steps, practices or truisms that AA members to guide and strengthen their recovery.

More questions?

Try the Frequently Asked Questions pamphlet (previously called the ’44 Questions about AA” pamphlet) available in hard copy at the EVI office in Springfield or online at AA World Service.

*From “What is A.A.”©Alcoholics Anonymous World Services, Inc. used with permission.