BLAKESLEE GROUP

Types of AA Meetings

Closed: In Pennsylvania, closed AA meetings are not open to general members of the community. The only people who may attend are members of AA and individuals who know they have a drinking problem and want to find help.

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.

Living Sober: AA centers may have selected sessions set aside for Living Sober discussions. This text is secular in nature, and focuses on practical ways that members have used to stay sober one day at a time.

Step Meeting: Step meetings are part of the 12 Step Program in Pennsylvania AA centers. Groups read AA texts like Twelve Steps, discuss how the passages fit their experience, and come up with goals to improve their recovery in the next meeting.

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.