Fairhaven Group

Types of AA Meetings

Big Book: AA clients in Washington use the Big Book as a source of inspiration. The Big Book features the lives of real men and women who overcame alcohol use disorder and can inspire clients to follow their lead.

Birthday: In AA, birthdays refer to the last day (or the day after) that a member used alcohol or drugs. Birthday anniversaries are celebrated as milestones to encourage sobriety.

Closed: In Washington, closed AA meetings are only available to members of AA and people who want to find help for alcohol addiction. Nonalcoholics and general members of the community cannot attend these discussions, which center on topics related to alcoholism and recovery.

Digital Basket: AA chapters may have a digital basket, which is a virtual collections plate for members to donate funds to pay for the chapter’s expenses. The virtual basket may accept various online payment services, such as PayPal, Google Pay, Stripe, and Venmo.

Discussion: AA discussion meetings in Washington give all members the chance to talk about a certain topic that relates to alcohol addiction and recovery. Leaders will select the topic beforehand, often referencing an AA text, such as the Big Book, for inspiration. They will share first, then others can add their own reflections.

Literature: Washington AA literature meetings are support group meetings for anyone in the community who is affected by alcohol addiction. These peer support meetings study the Big Book of AA and other recovery writings by AA founders and leaders as part of a 12-step addiction recovery program. They are open for all and are free to attend.

Newcomer: AA newcomer meetings in Washington are geared toward indiviusls who aren’t familiar with AA and want to understand more about it as they recover from alcohol addiction. They are informative in nature and may include a synopsis of Steps 1 through 3 of the program.

Step Meeting: In Washington, step meetings are one way for AA centers to monitor individual progress. Members meet in groups, read Twelve Steps, discuss how the excerpts relate to their own experiences, and make goals for the next meeting.

Tradition Study: Tradition Study sessions are AA reflections about the organization. Members discuss how AA chapters can be more successful in their purpose through greater unity and its outreach programs.

Wheelchair Access: Washington AA centers generally provide wheelchair access for non-ambulatory clients. These features may include open meeting rooms, restroom access, and amenities. Exterior ramps and designated parking assist in making facilities safe for navigation.