Rule 62

Types of AA Meetings

Breakfast: AA meetings that occur early in the morning may include breakfast. Members should be proactive about inquiring into costs for the meal, potential allergy information, and other cultural food sensitivities they might have.

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.

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.

Wheelchair-Accessible Bathroom: Selected AA centers offer wheelchair-accessible bathrooms for participants. These bathrooms have enough space for a wheelchair to safely navigate, and can include private stalls with guardrails, reachable toilet paper and seat cover dispensers, a wash basin, and other amenities.