CANDLELIGHT

Types of AA Meetings

Candlelight: Candlelight AA meetings are sessions in which members bring candles, usually white, that represent their hopes and goals. When each member shares, that member lights their candles as they discuss their challenges and successes.

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.

Open: Open AA meetings in California are informative in nature, designed for those seeking help for alcohol addiction and anyone interested in learning about the 12 step recovery model. Members are encouraged to share their stories and provide tips for recovery, helping observers learn more about how the program works and what their loved ones can expect.

Wheelchair Access: In California, AA meetings with wheelchair accessibility include designated parking spots and safety ramps. Clients can safely maneuver around the facility to participate in AA events.

Wheelchair-Accessible Bathroom: Selected AA centers offer wheelchair-accessible bathrooms for participants. These bathrooms have enough space for a wheelchair to safely navigate, and can include private stalls with guardrails, reachable toilet paper and seat cover dispensers, a wash basin, and other amenities.