Des Moines Young People’s Group

Types of AA Meetings

Big Book: Iowa AA centers often hold Big Book meetings to inspire clients. These discussions center on a collection of women and men 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.

Open: Open AA meetings in Iowa are open to anyone in the community, including alcoholics and nonalcoholics alike. They’re designed to be educational and informative, allowing attendees a firsthand look into how the program operates and what the 12 step recovery model includes. Members can participate and share stories while observers are free to listen and learn.

Step Meeting: Iowa AA chapters often feature step programs for members. Here, participants talk about their progress in accordance with the 12 Step Program, and they discuss ways to improve their goals for the next meeting.

Wheelchair Access: Wheelchair access for Iowa AA centers generally include ramps and designated parking spots. Non-ambulatory clients can safely navigate throughout the center for meetings and amenities.