On Awakening

Types of AA Meetings

Big Book: AA programs in Pennsylvania often feature the Big Book in discussions. Clients find inspiration from the lives of real people who overcame alcohol use disorder.

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.

Literature: Pennsylvania literature-led AA meetings are support group meetings for people who are impacted by alcohol addiction, including those suffering from alcoholism and those who have loved ones addicted to alcohol. These no-cost community meetings are based on the Big Book of AA and other literature by AA founders and leaders as part of a 12-step addiction recovery program.

Men: Men who are impacted by alcohol use disorder may seek out a men’s-only AA group. In Pennsylvania, these AA groups offer 12 Step Programs that center on issues relating to the health and recovery for men of all ages at no cost.

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.

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.