Cumming Group

Types of AA Meetings

As Bill Sees It: As Bill Sees It is a collection of essays and reflections from AA’s founder, Bill W., about the organization and its purpose. The book is often referenced in AA meetings to encourage members to individually and collectively discuss their recovery.

Big Book: Georgia AA meetings often center on the Big Book for discussions. The Big Book is a collection of stories from women and men who overcame alcohol use disorder and is used to inspire clients.

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.

Closed: In Georgia, closed AA meetings are not open to observers or members of the general public. Instead, only members and individuals seeking help for alcohol addiction are invited to attend. Members can share details about their recovery journey and newcomers are welcome to ask questions.

Discussion: AA discussion meetings in Georgia are led by a speaker, who opens the meeting by sharing a general topic to discuss. This topic is typically derived from an AA text, such as AA Grapevine or the Big Book. Once the speaker shares their input on the topic, they will open the floor for others to give their opinions and reflections.

Grapevine: Grapevine is a monthly magazine published by AA. Its contents, written by AA members, generally feature the experiences of individuals with alcohol use disorder, and articles are often discussed in AA meetings.

Newcomer: In Georgia, AA newcomer meetings are designed for individuals who are uninitiated with the AA program and 12 step model of recovery. These discussions allow space for them to ask questions and learn more, with talking points usually centered on Steps 1 through 3.

Open: In Georgia, anyone in the community can attend open AA meetings. These are available to individuals recovering from alcohol use disorder as well as nonalcoholics who want to learn more about the AA program and how the 12 step recovery model operates. The meetings are informative in nature and may include member input.

Speaker: Georgia AA programs frequently include motivational speakers. By using humor, charm, faith, and raw emotions, speakers can inspire clients to strengthen their commitment toward sobriety.

Step Meeting: In Georgia, step meetings are routine components of AA programs. Step meetings include discussions of passages from AA books like Twelve Steps, their personal progress, and plans for the next stage.

Wheelchair Access: In Georgia, AA centers with wheelchair access generally feature ramps and designated parking spots, as needed. The center’s layout allows for safe navigability for clients to participate in the meeting.

Young People: AA meetings for young people are intended for members in early adulthood, usually in their late teens and twenties. These groups focus on the experiences and issues that young people may face in their recovery.