Women’s New Beginnings

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.

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.

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.

Speaker: Speakers in AA centers can motivate members to maintain their sobriety. In Virginia, Speakers are usually AA alumni and use humor, reason, charm, faith, and emotions in their appeals to listeners.

Step Meeting: AA groups in Virginia use step meetings as a central part of the 12 Step Program. Members come together to read from AA texts, discuss how those passages compare to their own experiences, and make recommendations for improvement as their recovery continues.

Wheelchair Access: Virginia AA centers may provide non-ambulatory clients wheelchair access to participate in meetings. Exterior ramps, designated parking, and open layouts enable safe navigation throughout the facility.

Women: Virginia AA meetings for women are women-only peer support meetings for community members who are affected by alcohol addiction - women who are addicted to alcohol as well as those who have loved ones suffering from alcoholism. Open for women of all ages to attend at no cost, these meetings offer peer support and are guided by a 12-step recovery program.