Yes, people who have been drinking sometimes attend AA meetings. They are more than welcome to attend, but they may be asked not to speak while intoxicated, but to listen instead.

Based on our experience, the people who recover in AA are those who get a sponsor, get a home group, get a service position, attend meetings regularly, and seek out those in AA who have successfully stayed sober for some time

Don’t worry, they are there for the same reason you are. Our traditions tell us to never break the anonymity of others. That is one of the reasons we call ourselves Alcoholics Anonymous

There are no dues or fees for AA membership. We are fully self-supporting through our own contributions. Members only contribute if they are able.

Traditionally, most AA members have found it important to belong to one group which they call their home group. It is simply an AA meeting in which you take on service responsibilities, attend regularly, and sustain friendships. The concept of a home group has remained the strongest bond between the AA member and the fellowship.

Typically, a sponsor is somebody who can take you through the 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous outlined in the Big Book. They act as a mentor in recovery.

Published in 1939 under the title “Alcoholics Anonymous,” the Big Book is the basic textbook outlining the program of action for recovery from alcoholism through Alcoholics Anonymous. In addition to describing the disease of alcoholism and the spiritual steps toward recovery, the Big Book contains dozens of personal stories from people who have recovered from alcoholism using the A.A. program.

It’s not necessary to explain why you’re there. If you’re called on and prefer to remain silent, just say, “I’ll pass.” Anyone is free to simply sit and listen at meetings.

No. A.A. is not allied with any sect, denomination, politics, organization, or institution; does not wish to engage in any controversy; neither endorses nor opposes any causes

There are many types of meetings, but at any meeting you will hear alcoholics talk about what drinking did to their lives, the steps they took to help themselves, and what their lives look like today. An AA meeting takes many formats, from those geared towards beginners, to speaker meetings where a member shares their experience, strength, and hope with others.

No, you do not have to give your name. Some groups will ask newcomers to identify themselves by their first name only. All participation in AA meetings is voluntary.

Anonymity is the spiritual foundation of all of AA’s traditions. Please respect this custom and treat in confidence who you see and what you hear. Likewise, you can count on others to respect your anonymity.