Sobriety Society Knoxville

Types of AA Meetings

Big Book: AA programs in Tennessee often inspire participants with stories in the Big Book. Clients discuss the lives of real people who successfully managed their alcohol use disorder and how they can do the same.

Closed: Closed AA meetings in Tennessee are restricted to members only, as well as anyone who recognizes they have a drinking problem and is ready to find help. Leaders will facilitate the discussion, which usually focuses on an aspect of alcoholism and recovery.

Digital Basket: AA chapters may have a digital basket, which is a virtual collections plate for members to donate funds to pay for the chapter’s expenses. The virtual basket may accept various online payment services, such as PayPal, Google Pay, Stripe, and Venmo.

Discussion: In Tennessee, AA discussion meetings center around a particular topic that relates to alcohol addiction and recovery. Group leaders will open the meeting by sharing their personal thoughts and experiences that relate to the topic, then allow other members to share. Topics typically come from AA texts, including the Big Book.

Open: In Tennessee, open AA meetings are accessible to anyone from the public, including alcoholics and nonalcoholics. During the meeting, members can share their stories and provide information about the organization, while observers can listen and learn.

Wheelchair Access: In Tennessee, AA centers generally feature wheelchair access to enable non-ambulatory clients to fully participate in meetings. The centers may have exterior ramps, designated parking, and safe navigation in meeting halls, restrooms, and amenities.