The Shoulder To Shoulder Group

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.

Closed: Closed AA meetings in Virginia are not open to anyone outside the AA community. The only people who can attend are members of AA and individuals who recognize they have an alcohol addiction and want to find help. The discussions are informal and everyone can contribute.

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.

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.