LGBTQIA & Allies

Types of AA Meetings

Discussion: AA discussion meetings in Pennsylvania are structured around a central topic related to alcoholism and recovery. After opening the meeting and sharing the topic, leaders may share briefly from a related AA text. Then, they’ll add their own insights and encourage others to participate in the conversation.

Gay: Gay AA chapters can consist of members who are homosexual men or are simply gay-friendly. Topics in discussion are frequently related to issues facing gay men and their recovery.

LGBTQ: Selected AA chapters focus on providing a safe space for the LGBTQ+ community, and generally welcome LGBTQ+ allies. These groups prioritize members’ recovery and sobriety within a non-heteronormative context.

Newcomer: In Pennsylvania, AA newcomer meetings are available for individuals who are new to AA and want to learn more as they take the first steps toward recovery. Experienced members usually lead the sessions, which may be discussion-based or structured around core topics.

Open: In Pennsylvania, open AA meetings are accessible to all local community members who want a firsthand look into how the program operates and what the 12 strep recovery model includes. This may include individuals looking for help with alcohol addiction as well as their supporters.

Wheelchair Access: In Pennsylvania, non-ambulatory clients can have wheelchair access to participate in their AA meetings. Features include exterior ramps, designated parking, and open floor spaces to meeting halls, restrooms, and amenities.

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.