Service Structure
There are plenty of service opportunities in the Chicago area. You can participate in service at several different levels: in your group, at the District level, or at the Area level. A diagram of how AA service is structured is shown here. AA is unique in that we follow a tradition that says, “A.A., as such, ought never be organized; but we may create service boards directly responsible to those they serve.” – Tradition Nine. If you would like to read more about this tradition click here.
Also, the downtown Central Office is always looking for phone volunteers to answer calls for help and information, or to help out in the bookstore. To volunteer, contact the office manager.
GSR’s (and anyone curious about service at this level) meet at their regular District Meeting Schedule (pdf), most of which are held every odd month on the third Tuesday.
To read about our Area’s Service structure please read Chicago AA (Area 19) How it Works For You.
The A.A. Service Manual
The Twelve Concepts for World Service were written by A.A.’s co-founder Bill W., and were adopted by the General Service Conference of Alcoholics Anonymous in 1962. The Concepts are an interpretation of A.A.’s world service structure as it emerged through A.A.’s early history and experience.
You can purchase and read the AA Service Manual from our bookstore by clicking on the image to the left.
Group Service
Each group is autonomous and decides on the service positions for that group. Greeting people, making coffee, and cleaning up are typical kinds of jobs and are always appreciated. Ask your group how you can be helpful in one of these types of positions. If you have a service commitment it is traditional to show up to every meeting during your commitment to perform your job and to follow the group policy if you will be absent or need help.Each group usually has a General Service Representative (GSR). As GSR for a group you can get involved in a variety of District and Area committees. Click the button below to view the Service Opportunities page for more examples.
District Service
The Chicago Area is divided into 25 geographic Districts. Each District’s representatives (GSRs) meet periodically. You can view these meetings in our calendar and all are welcome to attend. Districts also host workshops, conferences or events on occasion. Contact your District Chair or attend a District meeting to get involved.
Area Service
Area Service Area 19 encompasses all 25 Districts in the Chicago area. The Chicago Area Service Assembly, as it is named, meets bi-monthly and all District representatives are expected to attend. This group handles business that effects all Districts and plans conferences and events that are Area-wide. These meetings can be found on our calendar and are hosted in various geographic locations.The Area has 14 committees, most of which anyone can join. Please click the button to find out more about our committees and to contact a committee to join. Joining a committee is a great way to be of service, learn how service works, and get to know fellow AAs.