Meetings: The Center of the Fellowship

A.A. meetings are the heart of our program and are held in communities around the world, including hospitals, treatment centers, correctional facilities, and military bases.

• Open Meetings: Anyone may attend. These meetings often include speakers sharing honestly about their drinking, recovery, and the A.A. program. Many are designed to help the public and professionals learn how A.A. works.
• Closed Meetings: For those who identify as alcoholics or believe they may have a drinking problem.

Most members find that attending meetings regularly—often several times per week—is vital to maintaining sobriety.

The Principle of Anonymity

Anonymity is the spiritual cornerstone of A.A. It protects our members’ privacy and keeps the focus on principles rather than personalities. This allows the Fellowship to grow through attraction, not promotion.

What A.A. Does Not Do

Understanding A.A.’s limits is as important as understanding our purpose. A.A. does not provide medical or psychological treatment, detoxification, counseling, housing, jobs, financial aid, or case management. We do not solicit members, keep attendance records, conduct research, or offer professional services. We simply share our experience in staying sober.

Referrals and Proof of Attendance

Many newcomers come to A.A. through referrals from courts, physicians, therapists, the military, and other professionals. A.A. welcomes anyone seeking help, regardless of how they arrived.

Because A.A. groups operate autonomously, practices for confirming meeting attendance vary. With the referred person’s consent, some groups may sign attendance slips, but returning the proof is always the individual’s responsibility.

Singleness of Purpose

While professionals may use broad terms such as “substance use disorder,” A.A. focuses solely on alcoholism. Nonalcoholics may attend Open Meetings as observers, but Closed Meetings are reserved for those with a desire to stop drinking.

A.A. and Medication
A.A. does not offer medical advice. Members are encouraged to follow the guidance of qualified health professionals, including when medication is needed. Resources such as “The A.A. Member — Medications and Other Drugs” help members make informed decisions while safeguarding their sobriety.

Making a Referral to A.A.

A.A. is widely accessible. Local contact information can be found at aa.org or in most telephone directories. Many professionals find it helpful to invite individuals to call A.A. directly from the office, creating immediate connection. Online meetings are also available and especially valuable for those in remote or restricted environments.