Sleepy Hollow Group

Types of AA Meetings

Big Book: AA programs in Virginia frequently use the Big Book to inspire participants. The Big Book contains stories about real people who overcame alcohol use disorder.

Child-Friendly: Child-friendly AA meetings allow each member to bring up to one child to the meeting, with the expectation that the discussion will not feature experiences or language that are inappropriate for the child. Formal childcare may not be available, but the member can watch over her child while participating in the discussion.

Discussion: In Virginia, AA discussion meetings are structured around a particular topic that relates to alcohol addiction and recovery. Leaders will typically share first, referencing an AA text such as the Big Book before sharing their personal reflections. Then, other members can talk about what the topic means to them.

Newcomer: In Virginia, AA newcomer meetings are open to people who are new to the program and want to find out more about how it operates. Experienced members normally lead the sessions, which will often include an overview of Steps 1, 2, and 3.

Open: In Virginia, open AA meetings are fully accessible to the public. Members may share their personal experiences with alcohol addiction and recovery while observers can listen and learn. These meetings are informational in nature, welcoming both alcoholics as well as anyone who wants to understand more about the program and its 12 step recovery model.