2024

“Connecting with
Love, Unity and Service”
The 74th Annual Meeting of the General Service Conference of
ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS

FINAL REPORT
 CONTENTS

The Seventy-Fourth Annual Meeting

of the General Service Conference
of Alcoholics Anonymous

“Connecting with
Love, Unity and Service”

2024 Final Report

New York Marriott at the Brooklyn Bridge,

Brooklyn NY, April 14-20

© Alcoholics Anonymous World Services, Inc., 2024.

475 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10115

All rights reserved.

www.aa.org

30M – 8/24 (WR)

■ Contents
The 74th General Service Conference Convenes . . . . . 3 Cooperation with the Professional
Greetings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Community/Treatment and Accessibilities . . . . . . . . 71
Keynote Address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Corrections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Finance and Budgetary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Reports from the General Service Board, General Sharing Session . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
AAWS and Grapevine Corporate Boards . . . . . . . . . . 7 Grapevine and La Viña . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
General Service Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Group Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
A.A. World Services, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 International . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
AA Grapevine, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 International Conventions/Regional Forums . . . . . . . . 85
Literature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Finance Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Nominating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
Location Plus Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Public Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
Staff Coordinator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
International Convention Report and Skit . . . . . . . . . . 26
Literature Distributed (AAWS) — 2023 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Presentations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Safety Throughout the Structure in our Fellowship . . . 28 Grapevine Literature Distribution and Circulation . . . . 112
1728 Sponsorship . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Report of the Independent Auditor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
Overcoming the Barriers to Participation . . . . . . . . . . 30
Contributions Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130
A.A. International. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
23rd Meeting of the Americas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 GSO/Grapevine Budgets (2024) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
A.A. Around the World . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Area Service Highlights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134
Workshop Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 2024 Conference Committees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149
Conference Advisory Actions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 2025 Chairpersons and Alternates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
Floor Actions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Agenda . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 2024 Trustees’ Committees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
Archives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
2024 Conference Members . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151
Cooperation with the Professional Community . . . . . . 36 Trustees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151
Corrections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Nontrustee Directors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153
Finance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Area Delegates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 155
Grapevine and La Viña . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 GSO and Grapevine/La Viña staffs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157
International Conventions/Regional Forums . . . . . . . . 37
Literature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Nonvoting Resource Attendees Assisting with
Policy/Admissions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 the 74th General Service Conference . . . . . . . . . . . . 157
Public Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Delegates Bid Farewell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 158
Report and Charter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Treatment and Accessibilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Trustees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Anonymity-Protected
Committee Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Digital Edition
Recommendations Passed by Simple Majority . . . . . . 51
This report has been edited to remove the full names of
Recommendations Not Resulting in Advisory Actions . 51
A.A. members in accord with our Traditions of anonymity.
Floor Actions Not Resulting in Advisory Actions . . . . . 51
Class A (nonalcoholic) trustees and nonalcoholic GSO/GV
GSO Department Reports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 employees are noted by full names.

Trustees’ Committees and Staff Reports . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Archives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 About the Back Cover: Stepping Stones, the historic
Audit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 home of Bill and Lois W. in Bedford Hills, N.Y., now a
Compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 National Historic Landmark.
Conference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

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n The 74th General Service Conference Convenes:

“Connecting with Love, Unity and Service”
T
he 74th General Service Conference was held April all privileged to be part of Conference week and I want
14-20, 2024, in New York City at the Marriott Hotel to thank all of you for your dedicated service to this
at the Brooklyn Bridge. With 134 Conference mem- Fellowship that saved our lives. With happy and grateful
bers the 74th General Service Conference provided the hearts, we have the opportunity to demonstrate our grat-
culmination of a year’s worth of engagement and discus- itude by the focused attention we give agenda items and
sion on topics integral to A.A. members, groups, districts, our thoughtful voting on the issues before us. The love
areas and regions across the United States and Canada, and respect we show each other in the next few days will
and ushered in the beginning of another year of sharing. be a testament to the effectiveness of our program and
“To gather as our founders have and to be the the value we place on its principles.”
voice of our area members,” said Mary A., Conference Serving as “the active voice and effective conscience”
Delegate Chair in her welcoming address at the opening of the Fellowship in the United States and Canada, as
session of the Conference, “I would like to imagine Bill described in Concept II, the Conference addressed more
and Bob looking around this room today and having than 88 agenda items, engaged in multiple sharing ses-
their hearts filled with gratitude and joy at all we have sions, and heard presentations and reports on topics of
become, what we have accomplished as a Fellowship, critical importance to the Fellowship.
and our united vision for what we can become for the Spanning many issues of trust, vision, and direction,
future of A.A.” the Conference sought to balance questions of time,
Reflecting on the Conference theme, “Connecting focus, and participation, as a tightly orchestrated sched-
with Love, Unity and Service,” Irma V., Western Canada ule featuring area input and service highlights meshed
regional trustee, who would rotate at the end of the with the fundamental work of the Conference.
Conference, asserted in her keynote address, “We are Much of the activity of the Conference revolves around

3
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the deliberations of the 13 Conference Committees and by 19 trustees… They braced me and held me up.”
full discussion of the reports and recommendations Speaking about what he has learned in A.A. and in
they provide to the Conference body based on agenda service Mike said, “The tools I use in my professional
items submitted from the members, groups and areas career, I learned here… How to treat people.” Sharing
throughout the U.S. and Canada. Additionally, reports that working with other alcoholics is the pathway to
from the General Service Board and its affiliate boards, compassion, Mike said with plenty of emotion, “I came
AAWS and AA Grapevine, are presented for review and to A.A. completely broken. You gathered me in and put
discussion, along with a detailed finance report provided me back together.”
by the treasurer of the General Service Board. There are In her remarks, Irma shared how deeply touched she
also a series of “What’s on your mind” general sharing has been by the opportunity to serve. “As servant lead-
sessions for Conference members to ask questions and ers,” she said, “we have the opportunity to give back
express the thinking and input of their individual areas what we have been given, sharing the journey with oth-
on a wide range of topics. A workshop titled “Connecting ers, for the greater good of the whole.” Likening service
Home Groups to the Conference Throughout the Year to to riding a horse she said, “There were times over the last
Better Inform the Group’s Conscience” was held, with few years that seemed daunting, but we stayed steadfast
Conference members sharing experience, strength and in our purpose of carrying the message to the still-suffer-
hope on the Legacies of Unity and Service. ing alcoholic. You just have to stay in the saddle.”
With reading room sessions scheduled for all In closing, she added, “Our work here is not in vain.
Conference members to confidentially review the man- Each one of us can touch the heart of another.”
uscript of the Plain Language Big Book, which was on As Conference members reflected on their experi-
the agenda of the Conference Literature Committee ences through the week, collected their belongings in
for possible approval, a major item before this year’s preparation for a visit to Stepping Stones, the historic
Conference was made available. Additionally, in the home of Bill and Lois W. in Bedford Hills, New York, and
run-up to Conference week, Conference members also their own ultimate return to their families, friends, home
met virtually to discuss matters related to the Founders’ groups, and A.A. meetings across the U.S. and Canada,
writings and to share input garnered from the Fellowship. many turned their thoughts to the 75th General Service
Covering a broad spectrum of responses, the input basi- Conference and its 2025 theme “Working Together,
cally followed along three lines: those indicating that no Increasing Trust.”
changes whatsoever be made to the Founders’ writings;
those who favored changes based on current values,
expressed need and more modern language; and those
who felt that if changes were proposed that such changes
move slowly and with broad exposure and input from the
Fellowship prior to any implementation.
While the work of the General Service Conference is a
year-round activity, with input asked and received from
the Fellowship, this one week in April gives Conference
members the opportunity to meet in person and to con-
nect, as noted in the Conference theme, with Love, Unity
and Service.
The Conference closed on Saturday morning with a
heartfelt round of goodbyes from Panel 73 delegates
followed by talks from rotating trustees. Mike L., West
Central Regional Trustee and Irma V., Western Canada
Regional Trustee, spoke graciously and gratefully of
their time in service to the Fellowship. Nontrustee direc-
tor Cindy F., rotating from the Grapevine board, also
expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to serve to
the Fellowship, noting it allowed her “to stay in the mid-
dle of A.A.” And Delegate Chair Mary A., in her rotating
remarks, passed the gavel to incoming Delegate Chair-
elect Karen C., of Alberta/Northwest Territories, noting,
with a wry smile however, that she never actually got to
use the gavel she was now passing.
Sharing how he had at times over the past year — a
year in which he served as interim chair of the General
Service Board — found himself in some interesting sit-
uations and wondered, “Why me?” Mike told how he
realized that he was not alone, that he was “surrounded

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 CONTENTS

Greetings

W
elcome everyone to the 74th General Service
Conference of Alcoholics Anonymous!
I am honored to serve as the Area 14, North
Florida, Panel 73 Delegate, and your Conference Delegate
Chair. I am an alcoholic, and my name is Mary.
Being a delegate and participating here is an experi-
ence shared by so few. To gather as our founders have
and to be the voice of our area members, who have seen
us worthy of this honor I am both proud and humbled. A
paradox like so many others in our program.
I would like to imagine Bill and Bob looking around
this room today and having their hearts filled with grat-
itude and joy at all we have become. What we have
accomplished as a Fellowship and our united vision for
what we can become for the future of A.A.
The theme for this 74th General Service Conference is
“Connecting with Love, Unity, and Service.” There is no
doubt that every person in this room today shares a pro-
found love for the Fellowship and program of Alcoholics
Anonymous, as we give so freely of our time and talents
to ensure its good health and endurance.
Bill tells us that “Without unity, the heart of A.A. would
cease to beat,” page 125, As Bill Sees It. While we dedi-
cate ourselves to the business of the future of A.A. may
we be united in the goal of providing a way out for the
alcoholic who may not have even had their first drink
yet. May the doors of our meeting rooms stay open for
generations to come.
And as we serve our Fellowship this week, we will
discuss and decide the Agenda Items of this Conference.
May we do this with open minds, open hearts, and open
mouths. We may agree, and we may disagree, but let us
always do so agreeably. Let all voices be heard in a spirit able to all who seek it for many meetings to come. That
of unity and love. the hand of A.A. be available to anyone, anywhere who
Do not be afraid to have a different view than the
reaches out for help, and for that we are all responsible.
delegate sitting next to you, you may have the vital point
Connecting with Love, Unity and Service.
we have all failed to see. Do not leave wishing you had
said something that you did not. Our area members have Mary A., North Florida, Conference Delegate Chair
given us their collective voice, it is our responsibility to
them to use that voice. Keynote Address

I
As a returning second year delegate I can assure you
74s that you are in for the ride of your life. I can promise am Irma and I am an alcoholic. My sobriety date is June
an exhilarating, sometimes overwhelming experience. 17, 1987, and I am a member of the Sunshine Group in
Do not miss a thing. You will make lifelong friends and Esterhazy, Saskatchewan, Canada. I first want to thank
share in this very special engagement that few will under- our Conference Coordinator Diana L. and those involved
stand. An elder statesmen and past delegate told me this in planning this year’s Conference for the loving invita-
experience will change you in ways you will not be able tion to provide a few thoughts on my experience on our
to explain to someone who has not been here. I have theme “Connecting with Love, Unity and Service.” We
found this to be true. For myself it has been a spiritual are all privileged to be part of Conference week and I
experience so profound I feel it is second only to finding want to thank all of you for your dedicated service to this
sobriety itself. Fellowship that saved our lives. With happy and grateful
As we begin this week-long journey together be hearts, we have the opportunity to demonstrate our grat-
always mindful of why we are here. We are here for our itude by the focused attention we give agenda items and
Homegroup members, our districts, and our areas. We our thoughtful voting on the issues before us. The love
are here to ensure the program of Alcoholics Anonymous and respect we show each other in the next few days will
stays strong and true to the sobriety that we all enjoy. be a testament to the effectiveness of our program and
And that the healing life we have found be made avail- the value we place on its principles.

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 CONTENTS

For the past four years, it has been very rewarding would cease to beat; our world arteries would no longer
and a great privilege to serve the Fellowship of Alcoholics carry the life-giving grace of God…” (Twelve Steps and
Anonymous as a Regional Trustee. When I received the Twelve Traditions, p. 129).
call informing me I was elected Western Canada Regional I would like to mention one of the ad hoc committees
Trustee during the 70th General Service Conference there I served on for two years, “Increasing Participation in the
was a mix of excitement, fear and immense gratitude. I Service Structure through actions that support inclusivity,
recognized the significant responsibilities that this role diversity, and participation defined in Traditions 3 and 5,
would entail and after a good cry I had to catch my and Concept 4.” The committee identified and recom-
breath. I believed I was in for a ride of my life, and not mended actions to support inclusivity, diversity, and partic-
on my horse. I did not want to let you down. My reliance ipation in the service structure. All the committee activities
on my Higher Power has helped me demonstrate the drew upon and were enhanced by the shared experience
stability and serenity that comes from reliance upon that of the A.A. Fellowship. I must admit I did not know what I
Higher Power, especially in times of change, uncertainty, did not know, and realize that not everyone feels the love
and challenges. This experience has shaped me, foster- and acceptance I did when I first came into the rooms of
ing personal growth and a more profound connection Alcoholics Anonymous. Being open minded and willing to
with my Higher Power. Thank you for your trust in me learn, has helped me have an even greater appreciation
over these past four years. It has been truly amazing; an and love for each and every individual. “We do not wish
experience that will stay with me for the rest of my life! to deny anyone their chance to recover from alcoholism.
This year there are 134 of us blessed to serve at the We wish to be just as inclusive as we can, never exclusive.”
Conference made up of area delegates, trustees, non- During my four years as trustee on the General Service
trustee directors and staff. Each one of us chosen to be Board I have met thousands of recovering alcoholics — at
here by various methods and each one of us here is a assemblies, Regional Forums, conferences and service
servant leader with a great responsibility. We are here weekends. I have made many friends throughout my
to have vigorous, loving, and informed discussions on travels. Over the years I have heard the expression “we
matters affecting A.A. today. We are here to listen to our and them.” I would like to remind everyone here that we
General Service Board, AA Grapevine Board and A.A. are in this Fellowship together, with one primary purpose
World Services Board reports and to ask questions and — to carry our message to the still suffering alcoholic.
make suggestions. We are here to roll up our sleeves, be Our Traditions ask that we strive to settle our differences
fully present and do our best, to think deeply, to bring the and relearn to trust each other. We know in our heart of
conscience of the Canada/U.S. service structure together, hearts that our love for A.A. — individually and collective-
to debate in loving discussions and ultimately to hear ly — is pure in spirit. All Conference members are equal
our Higher Power express itself through our group con- and the Conference process favors no one member over
science. It is important for all of us to take a good hard another. We continue to learn from our past and avail
look at challenges and opportunities that are affecting ourselves of the tried and proven principles and relation-
A.A. today and to carry these discussions back to those ships outlined in our Steps, Traditions, Charter, Bylaws,
we serve with the spirit of love, unity, and service. Concepts and Warranties.
We can demonstrate how to use the tools of humility, As we gather together this week, let us recommit to a
honesty, devotion, and love which indeed are the heart of renewal of each of our individual spirits, set aside our per-
the Twelve Steps of our recovery. Bernard Smith quoted sonal agendas, and focus on what is best for Alcoholics
Canon C.E. Raven’s thoughts on Fellowship (A.A. Comes Anonymous as a whole. As we lovingly discuss each topic
of Age, p. 276): “These three conditions are necessary for
let us always be sensitive to each other’s viewpoints,
true fellowship…: a common ideal involving a complete
let us listen carefully to each other. Let us be willing to
release from selfishness and division…a common task
question and review our own thoughts and ideas, always
big enough to capture the imagination and give expres-
being willing to set aside our viewpoint for a clearer
sion to loyalty…the comradeship, the togetherness…as
vision. We are here to do the work of the Fellowship. But
we find out the joy and power of belonging to an organic
of real importance and far more lasting is the manner in
society and engaging in a whole-time service. We can
which we express our love for one another, the way we
find this vision where the ideal is highest and most exact-
encourage each other to share spiritually.
ing, where the task extends and integrates every ounce
I ask you to keep in your prayers a resolution that
of our strength and every element of being, where the
will continue to restore unity as we serve the Fellowship
comradeship is so solid and so deep that we respond to
of Alcoholics Anonymous. I would also like to stress the
one another without conscious effort, realize the unspo-
importance of principles before personalities.
ken need and react spontaneously at once.”
“The Twelve Traditions of Alcoholics Anonymous sym- At this time as we prepare to be of maximum service
bolize the sacrificial character of our life together and are let us simply remember our Declaration of Unity: “This
the greatest force for unity that we know” (A.A. Comes of we owe to A.A.’s future; to place our common welfare
Age, p. 96-97). “The unity of A.A. is the most cherished first; to keep our Fellowship united. For on A.A. unity
quality our Society has. Our lives, the lives of all to come, depend our lives, and the lives of those to come.”
depend squarely upon it. Without unity, the heart of A.A. Irma V., Western Canada Regional Trustee

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■ Reports from the General Service Board, AAWS

and Grapevine Corporate Boards

GENERAL SERVICE BOARD REPORT • The Trustees’ Finance and Budgetary Committee

A
develop additional ways to report quarterly the fis-
t the 73rd General Service Conference, the General
cal performance of the AAWS, GSB and GV Boards
Service Board was tasked with the following
Advisory Action: throughout the year to the members of the General
Service Conference for the purposes of transparency
In an effort to improve communication, ensure Board and assisting in the reporting to the A.A. Fellowship.
policies are reflective of our principles, and reestablish
• To foster unity, trust, and transparency in the
a relationship of trust between the General Service
Fellowship, the members of the General Service
Conference, the General Service Board and the Fellowship
of Alcoholics Anonymous, the General Service Board is Conference meet outside of the annual meeting for
asked to undertake an inventory prior to the 74th General general sharing sessions at least two times per year
Service Conference. To assist the Board in this endeavor, utilizing virtual meeting technology. The General
the 73rd General Service Conference will establish a Service Board Chair and Delegate Chair will set the
working group to aid the General Service Board in for- date and time as well as determine what issues cur-
mulating possible inventory questions. rently facing the Fellowship would be chosen as topics.
This Advisory Action was given the highest priority In addition to the Advisory actions, other projects
of the actions coming out of the 73rd General Service were initiated or continued to help meet the goals of the
Conference, and the oversight of the implementation of Advisory Action. These include:
this inventory was assigned to the Trustees’ Committee • Holding Board Huddles at the Quarterly Board
on the General Service Conference. A subcommittee Weekends. This included participation from all three
was formed and with the help of our dedicated staff, a boards focused on alignment of the Traditions and
working group representative of the makeup of the 73rd Concepts we use to guide our actions.
General Service Conference members was selected, and • Continuing the work of the Policy ad hoc Committee
they started the process of developing questions for the of the General Service Board. The committee is tasked
inventory. with reviewing our policies to ensure that they are in
There were also two other Advisory Actions that were alignment with our Traditions and Concepts, while
aligned with reaching the goals of Board Inventory. They meeting the legal requirements for nonprofit organiza-
are: tions in the State of New York.

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• Engaging with the Fellowship wherever and when- • There may be different definitions of “Circle the
ever possible, in person or on virtual platforms. This Wagons”
includes forums and other regional events, Area » We were being supportive.
events, District events, and Group events. We have also
» We were being attacked.
engaged in phone calls, email and text exchanges with
individuals throughout the Fellowship. » Staying in unity.
The inventory questions were completed, and an » Projecting an appearance of support.
outside facilitator was engaged before the Panel 72 » We were being defensive.
members of the working group rotated. The inventory
QUESTION FOUR: What role did social media play in
questions were distributed to the members of the General
Service Board with ample time to collect and compile the the resignation?
answers before the January Board Weekend. On Friday, • Social media played no role in the actual resignation.
January 26, 2024, the General Service Board members • With limited information coming from the Board,
met at 475 Riverside Drive to conduct the inventory. social media platforms filled the void following the
We started the day with a high-level review of the resignation.
survey results. Each member was given 3 minutes to • Social media provided an alternative to conference
share any observations or final comments before we member discussions based on factual information
split into breakout groups. The inventory consisted of 23 conducted using AA principles of participation, minori-
questions, and our membership was split into 5 breakout ty opinion and trust — there was only one side using
groups. Each group was assigned questions to review the megaphone.
and identify key learning observations as well as possible
solutions and actionable steps. After lunch, each group Solutions and Actionable Steps for Group #1
reported back to the full board, followed by feedback and 1. Spend time on leadership development on the Board
discussion before prioritizing the action items identified. discussing differences between Unity vs defensive-
The following information includes the questions with a ness as well as developing spiritual principles.
summary of the feedback and the solutions and action- 2. When we give directions or communicating, we need
able steps identified:
to clearly define terms and check in to make sure we
GROUP #1 are all using the same definition.
QUESTION ONE: Is the “collective conscience” of AA 3. As a Board we need to consider how to encourage
at work within the GSB? the use of our structure. This would include board
• There were some varied answers which can be members engaging in regional and area events,
attributed to time in service on the Board. Responses but also working through our service structure and
were overwhelmingly affirmative. engaging delegates in their sharing of information up
• We are more unified than we sound. the service structure.
• Acknowledge that there are outside pressures affecting
GROUP #2
discussion and decisions of the Board.
QUESTION FIVE: Is there still work to do to
QUESTION TWO: How does this experience strengthen
communicate with the Fellowship why the Board
me? Has it shown me anything that I might work on
communicated the way it did? (for example, legal
myself personally or in the GSB as a whole?
consultations, Q & A)
• All answered the question from their various perspec-
tives. Learnings
• This past year saw unprecedented attacks on individu- • The board did not demonstrate an understanding of
als and on the Board as a whole which were noted by the urgency for more detailed information following
some respondents as requiring a great deal of strength the resignation.
and personal work to persevere. • We did not communicate with one voice.
• Humility, Leadership, Trust, Courage, Perseverance • We were fighting a wave of mistrust.
mentioned repeatedly regarding how it has strength- • Any efforts by the board to answer these questions
ened respondents.
have led to further controversy and failed to correct
QUESTION THREE: In an effort to appear unified, do misinformation.
trustees have a tendency to “Circle the Wagons” in
defense of board members when controversy occurs? Solutions
• We make decisions as a board, not as individuals. We • We need to move forward with stronger strategies for
will support all of our board members when controver- communication for serious and urgent matters.
sy arises from those decisions. • We have a responsibility to be informed by SME’s
• Some felt that under the pressure of lobbying by those (Subject Matter Experts), including lawyers.
outside of the Conference the board was unable to • For future challenges, we need to ensure we quickly
defend those targeted sufficiently. develop group conscience regarding communication.

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• Quarterly Board Weekends have become overloaded

with work, leading to 12- to 15-hour days.
• We need to exhibit leadership behavior and ensure we
are adhering to Concepts VIII, X, & XI, including:
» Not overstepping our responsibility of custodial
oversight.
» Following the well-defined scope of our roles.
» Engaging participation from committees, directors,
executives, and consultants provided in the struc-
ture.
» Ensuring time for leadership training, visioning,
strategic planning and board development, away
from board weekends, if possible.
• Leadership training needs to be conducted away from
the Board Weekends.
QUESTION EIGHT: It was evident that a toxic
relationship had developed for some time between
the GSB Chair and some Trustees/GSO staff. What
actions should Trustees take to address this conduct
at an early stage?
• It wasn’t evident to everyone at the time.
• The process for bringing issues forward was insuffi-
cient.
• The Policy ad hoc Committee is addressing these
issues regarding our policies and procedures.
• Conduct leadership training to identify and address
inappropriate behavior before problems escalate.
• Efforts were made to address specific matters as early
QUESTION SIX: Does GSB consider primary purpose as June 2022.
When determining budget? • Issues such as not adhering to bylaws in the forming
• Yes. Trustees committees set their budgets reflecting of committees, not adhering to Concept III when
services provided via group contributions, these bud- special meetings were held with only a portion of the
gets are largely influenced by Conference actions and board and no reporting was provided, and disregard
trustee committee activities. for minority voice are not matters of interpersonal
• Considerations are a little different with the AAWS relationships.
portion of the budget where operational support,
Solutions and Actionable Steps for Group #2
infrastructure to facilitate services, and publishing
operations need to be accounted for. 1. More discipline about prioritizing and managing our
time.
• AAGV budgets are reviewed with operations, maga-
zines and other products, and services (LaViña) con- 2. Develop processes/policies for bringing issues for-
sidered. ward. (Coaching & mentoring when people are hav-
ing Issues.)
• This is all in accordance with Concepts VIII, XI and
Warranty One where operating expenses are noted as 3. All board members need to be responsible to prompt-
necessary to support the services. ly address inappropriate conduct when it occurs.

QUESTION SEVEN: What would help the GSB GROUP #3

stay focused on its role as leaders of a spiritual
QUESTION NINE: What are three ways we can
movement?
improve to better serve Alcoholics Anonymous?
• Through the pandemic, the Board has crept into
• Improve Communication — standard, consistent mes-
operations responsibilities. This has caused some
saging.
problems with micromanaging and double-headed
management. • Manage Workflow to match the time available.
• The workload has also increased dramatically, drawing • Focus on oversight rather than Operations.
attention away from oversight and focusing more on • Leadership training/coaching for board servants.
completing tasks. • Include all perspectives in the discussion.

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QUESTION TEN: How do we ensure that trustees have 3. Understand the role of a trustee, focused time, less
an opportunity to express their opinion or operational, more planning, realistic expectations
any concerns? and effective servant leadership. (Service)
• Creating an environment where others feel safe and
comfortable. GROUP #4
• Remembering everyone needs to feel valued. QUESTION THIRTEEN: When a controversial “right
• Remaining open to new ideas. of board decision” item is presented for action, how
• Agree on how we will communicate. can we seek improvements in full communication
• Don’t subvert the process. of the decision to the fellowship to ensure that unity
is effectively considered in the timing and action of
• Courage
such critical decisions?
• Provide opportunity to be able to speak. Don’t attack
• There should only be one voice that reflects the group
each other / no bullying.
conscience. The minority voice is provided an oppor-
• Time limit on speaking to provide equity. tunity to be heard. Once there is an outcome it must
• Avoid meetings in the hallway. Let everyone have the be communicated.
benefit of hearing.
• Prompt clear communication and be ready to follow
• Remain non-judgmental. up as needed depending on feedback.
• Develop the new Code of Conduct and adhere to it. • If the body is putting out a communication, then the
QUESTION ELEVEN: How can we better use Language body needs to approve, and sign, any communication.
of the Heart when communicating about the • Arrive at a group conscience on what we can and can-
business of A.A.? not report and adhere to it. Establish expectations for
• What is the language of the heart — caring, compas- what “full communication” is. Explain reasons, e.g.,
sion, accessible, understandable. responsibility/authority, privacy, legal matters, that we
• Listen like we have no opinion. may not be able to provide all information requested.
• Practice authenticity. • Any communication needs to reflect the group con-
science, and not any individual board member’s
• Don’t preach.
opinions.
• Unity — Accept the group conscience when discus-
sion/debate are complete. QUESTION FOURTEEN: How can we create
• Communication-effective better best board practices in non-engagement vs
• How do we gauge — talk with, not at the business engagement on private social media groups where
of A.A. -Spiritual aspect, the connection for the 7th AAs are gathered? How does engagement in
tradition. social media groups affect the fellowship,
boards, and staff?
• Respect each other.
• Social media creates haves and have-nots. These
• Trust each other.
groups are not the full fellowship.
• The Inverted Triangle is needed always.
• Social media does not help with consistent messaging
QUESTION TWELVE: How do we guard against through the service structure.
becoming a “seat of perilous wealth or power”? • Current delegates as well as past delegates and past
• Rotation. trustees participate.
• Make sure we understand our roles & responsibilities. • We need to commit to doing well when we rotate.
We cover this in orientation every year but could • Do we play by social media rules, or do we play by AA
expand on it in leadership training. rules? What if we had our own social media platform?
• Understanding the Concepts & Traditions. • Could the regionals work collaboratively to create one
• Open, consistent communication to the Fellowship regional report, efficiently and everyone gets the same
through the Delegates. thing?
Solutions and Actionable Steps for Group #3 • We can create the report components as part of board
1. Start each cycle with a commitment to shared values weekend reporting that Regionals could then combine
which include trust, respect, method of communica- and perhaps add a narrative.
tion, to foster an environment where we can most • We need to find a way to get the message out without
effectively fulfill our role. (Unity) waiting for the next quarterly session. This will require
2. Written external unified communication to con- faster and more consistent reporting.
ference members using the language of the heart • Reporting needs to go through the service structure,
employing our values (understanding the informa- not social media.
tion we want to and need to communicate) (Unity • Find a way to support regionals in collaborative report-
Service Recovery) ing after board meetings.

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QUESTION FIFTEEN: How will we fully utilize the • We need a board atmosphere that fosters trust,
spiritual principles of AA to address leadership respect, confidentiality. Example: assuming good
problems? How do we incorporate all 36 principles in intention. How do we create and maintain this? How
Board discussions and decisions? do we course correct?
• Proven ways to do both, for example: group con- • If off the rails: assign to a committee rather than hav-
science, our structure, and personal adherence to AA ing the full board engaged.
principles. • Respectful honesty:
• So, what are the barriers? To begin with one thing that » The “how” can interfere reception of the message.
is required and largely missing is for those involved to TONE and TENOR. We need to be mindful that our
have the courage of conviction to identify leadership message is not abrasive and combative.
problems when they exist and say something. We fail
» We shouldn’t tolerate being disrespected, we need
in our responsibility to those we serve, to our mission,
to let each other know or let the chair know.
and to our common welfare by accepting unaccept-
able conduct either by participating in it or by saying Solutions
nothing instead of raising matters of concern to the • Understand the Antecedents: what creates the caul-
entity responsible to address it. Our collective failure dron.
to accept that some things do require a degree of • Leadership training/communication skills.
discretion or confidentiality and take a stand on this
• We need respectful honesty. Rather than conflict
principle has deepened our reluctance to speak up.
avoidance, raising concerns respectfully can resolve
» Study workspace. the issue. Encourage use of “I” based feedback and
» Study new schedule. assertive communication.
» Study set boundaries — time and work. QUESTION SEVENTEEN: In what ways do we exercise
Solutions oversight of the affiliate corporations? Are they
• Principled Problem Solving sufficient?
» PREVENTION • Trustees on each of the corporate boards.
From bottom up • Delegate operational oversight to the corporate board
Select leaders well. who then report back to General Service Board.
In-service training. • The General Service Board approves the budget after
Speak up before issues escalate, minority voice. passing through the Trustees’ Finance Committee.
Bring issues to the chair. • Chairs and Treasurers of each corporate board sit on
» RESOLUTION the Trustees Finance Committee.
Bring to committee/officers. • Corporations prepare the draft budgets as they have
• Creating the right environment to behave; adjusting the responsibility and authority as per Concept IV.
workload/schedule. Trustees Finance and the General Service Board review
• Ensure that those who raise concerns are not subject- and approve or suggest changes as needed, reporting
ed to bullying or targeted harassment or no one will throughout the year on any variances.
advise when there are matters of concern. • Yes, the current structure and process is sufficient.
• If concerns arise with the process outlined above, then
QUESTION SIXTEEN: What steps are being taken to
we need to always refer back to the guidance provided
ensure that we conduct ourselves professionally,
in the Concepts.
promoting respectful interactions, avoiding
discrimination or harassing behavior, and treating • Exercise oversight, but when there is concern or con-
all individuals, including staff, with fairness flict, we need a better method of raising concerns.
and dignity? Solutions and Actionable Steps for Group #4
• When things are stressed due to overwork or meeting 1. Establish principled problem solving, there are steps
late or financial pressures, or all 3 at once, it becomes
from prevention to conflict resolution:
that much harder to be respectful and professional.
These situations need to be avoided. a. Select leaders well, prompt action to resolve
problems early, bring to chair or committee of
• Leadership training, communications skills could be
officers.
good development tools to help build better board
behavior. b. Training in leadership and professionalism,
speak up using your minority voice.
• Need to look at antecedents as well as the actual bad
behavior. What conditions existed that may have influ- 2. When there are potentially controversial decisions,
enced the bad behavior? we need to use prompt clear and unified messaging
• Rules of Conduct / Engagement? This is already in our that the body approves.
Concepts. Draw the new policies from the Concepts a. Arrive at a group conscience on what we will or
and Traditions. won’t report and adhere to it.

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3. Create a healthier environment through schedule QUESTION NINETEEN: Are we receiving all the
management, priority on strategy, tone, and tenor. information we need from the affiliate boards to
fulfill our custodial oversight?
GROUP #5 • There has been some overstepping by the General
QUESTION EIGHTEEN: How do confidentiality, Service Board, leading to micromanagement and dou-
anonymity, honesty, transparency, responsibility, ble-headed management.
accountability, and fiduciary duties come together in • Additional training on Concept VIII is needed beyond
our service to the fellowship? what is covered in orientation.
• There is no guidance on transparency in our Service • Trust needed in the committee system and Concept
Manual (including the Bylaws, Conference Charter, and VIII was weakened through the pandemic, resulting in
Concepts essays), Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions, a lack of understanding of the roles of members and
or Alcoholics Anonymous. We can find guidance from directors.
Bill regarding all of the other terms, especially respon- • Additional Board development in our Traditions and
sibility and accountability. Concepts is recommended outside of the Board
• In our confidentiality policy, the expectations of con- Weekends.
fidentiality continue after rotation. Disclosing confi- • Reset ourselves & share consistently with fellowship.
dential information is a tremendous violation of trust.
QUESTION TWENTY: Without focusing on
• Application of our Steps, Traditions, and Concepts is personalities, what factors contributed to creating an
needed to balance these principles. environment that resulted in a change in leadership
• Honesty requires safety. being necessary?
• Lack of General Service Board understanding of fidu- • Virtual meetings stunted relationships and trust cli-
ciary responsibilities creates confusion. mate for authoritarian leadership take over.
• Board huddles on our spiritual principles and how to • Lack of formal feedback structures.
operate have been effective. • Double headed management of affiliates and execu-
• Board development (training, orientation, strategy) tives.
away from board weekend would be very helpful. • Secret meetings of select few rather than the entire
• The Policy ad hoc Committee is addressing our poli- board, with no reporting function to the Board.
cies. • Unenforced Code of Conduct issues creating risk to the
• Reminders of the safety card! It applies to the Board, organization and employees.
as well. • Methods of selection did not identify issues.
• Cross functional group of conference members to set • Conduct of more than one trustee that was harmful
communications need, cadence, roles, timing, plan is (bullying, marginalized, etc.) accepted silently by
recommended. board.

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Solutions • Use the general sharing session to destress (roundta-

• Changes have been made to the nominating process bles).
for General Service board chairs, including using a QUESTIONS TWENTY-THREE: As a member of the
consultant, reference checks, and more in-depth inter- General Service Board, what does the word “trust” in
viewing. the term “trusted servant” mean to you?
• Onboarding / orientations for new chairs.
Learnings
• Board zero tolerance for misconduct:
• Trustees do not feel trusted by fellowship.
» Policies
• Trust within the board is inconsistent but improving.
» Course of action
• Micromanagement erodes trust.
» Corrective measures
• Our personal conduct is key — attraction.
Note — some are too serious and require immediate action.
• Fear is a barrier to trust. There is a lot of fear from
• Two-way communications for board chair and the receiving threats and harassment.
board.
Solutions
QUESTION TWENTY-ONE: Staff and delegates —
• Discuss as topics at General Service Conference and
What more can be done to support them?
Regional Forums.
• Zero tolerance for mistreatment of employees.
• Conference / boards must encourage open communi-
• Post resignation communication was slow. This delay cation. Draw out the quiet voices.
harmed the Delegates, Non-trustee Directors, and
• Dedicated sessions to building trust.
Staff.
• Workload and the workflow issues need to be Solutions and Actionable Steps for Group #5
addressed. 1. Board Development including board huddles, train-
• Lack of consistency in reports from boards and trust- ing, orientation, strategic planning away from board
ees is a problem. weekends.
• No consistent / mutual communications plan expecta- 2. Develop cross functional group of conference mem-
tions are in use. bers to determine communication needs and estab-
Solutions lish a plan (cadence, rules, timing).
• In the event of another unplanned chair vacancy — 3. Board zero tolerance for misconduct. Address it early.
immediate leadership committee should be formed to Some situations are serious and require immediate
work with the interim chair. action.
• Boards/Staff — ID problems and solutions. Don’t push, Conclusion
show gratitude.
Following the resignation of the Board Chair, the commu-
• A Cross functional group consisting of conference nication from the General Service Board to the Fellowship
members to identify problems and solutions. was ineffective. This was made worse because we failed
QUESTION TWENTY-TWO: As a board, how do we to anticipate the nature and volume of communications
handle challenges that can affect Board unity or from those not on the General Service Board. Together
influence or impact our group conscience? this caused harm to our staff members, Non-Trustee
Directors, and Delegates. On behalf of the General
Learnings Service Board, I offer my sincerest apologies for the dam-
• Board leadership needs to be objective & neutral. age our poor communication has caused. The General
• We have faced a lack of listening when challenges Service Board is committed to changing how we com-
noted. municate, but we are going to need the help of General
• We have faced a lack of time for discussion and/or lack Service Conference for this to be effective.
of timely background. To date, these are the changes we have made:
• Respect for the group conscience and how it is • We have implemented the Advisory Action calling
achieved was lacking. for at least two virtual sharing sessions. We have
• We face challenges when influence is from past trust- held three sharing sessions since the 73rd General
ed servants. Service Conference. I would like to recommend
• Influence of social media has created challenges. that we survey the conference members to deter-
• No board policy in terms of response to lobbying. mine the effectiveness of the sessions and to see
if there are any improvements that can be imple-
Solutions mented.
• Take time. • We have implemented the Advisory Action regarding
• Prioritization for workload effectiveness — use the quarterly financial reporting. We have made some
Concepts. adjustments to the process and look forward to

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discussing how we can be more effective with this

reporting.
• We have made progress with our Policy ad hoc
Committee reviewing and updating the Code of
Conduct Policy, the Whistleblower Policy, and the
Confidentiality Policy. We will have drafts to review
this week.
• We have held Board Huddles at the Quarterly Board
Weekends to align our Board servants with the Steps,
Traditions, and Concepts.
• The items we have identified in the inventory that we
plan to implement include:
• Holding a Board Retreat to conduct leadership training
and strategic planning.
• Implement a workload management plan to relieve
the oversaturated workload placed on the staff and
Boards.
• The item we will need help from the Conference on is:
• Create a cross-functional group of Conference mem-
bers to identify improvements in our communication
and reporting between the Boards and the Conference
members.
Thank you all for your time, patience, and attention.
In Love and Service,
Mike L., West Central Regional Trustee
Interim Chair, General Service Board

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS WORLD SERVICES, INC.

CORPORATE REPORT

A
financial reports to the AAWS Board, the General
lcoholics Anonymous World Services, Inc. (AAWS),
Service Board, the General Service Conference, and
is a Not-for-Profit Corporation whose mission
the Fellowship, provide good stewardship of A.A.’s
is to provide and maintain effective services to
assets and make sure financial activity is faithful to
our Fellowship, guided by A.A.’s Twelve Steps, Twelve
the Twelve Traditions and Concepts. The Finance and
Traditions and Twelve Concepts. These services, and
Accounting Department provides GSO department
more, are provided through the General Service Office
leaders with the information needed to make informed
(GSO), which serves all A.A. groups in the United States
and Canada and offers services to A.A. overseas, especial- business decisions consistent with our financial plan.
ly in countries where there is no service structure. AAWS • Publishing: AAWS Publishing coordinates all aspects
services fall under four general functions: of providing Alcoholics Anonymous, Twelve Steps and
• Archives: The mission of the A.A. General Service Twelve Traditions, Daily Reflections, As Bill Sees It,
Office Archives is to document permanently the work and over 1,100 other Conference-approved literature
of Alcoholics Anonymous, to make the history of the items. Additionally, this department produces service
organization accessible to A.A. members and other materials such as guidelines, reports, and other items
researchers, and to provide a context for understand- designed to carry the A.A. message of recovery and to
ing A.A.’s progression, principles, and traditions. The articulate the principles of the A.A. program. Much of
GSO Archives are concerned with three classes of the material published [in print] by AAWS is also avail-
material: that which is literary, that which is historical, able in different formats, including large print editions,
and that which is archival in the literal sense, adminis- audiobook, e-book, video, Braille and sign languages
trative, legal, and financial records, for example. such as ASL and QSL/LSQ.
• Finance: The Finance and Accounting Department • Services: The umbrella term “Services” does not
facilitates GSO’s day-to-day business by processing adequately describe the broad range of responsibili-
transactions such as contributions, literature sales, and ties tasked to the GSO departments included in this
vendor payments. These finance and accounting pro- function: Staff Services, comprised of GSO Staff and
fessionals manage the accounts receivable, accounts Staff Assistants; Operations, which includes Member
payable and contributions departments, participate Services and Mail & Shipping; Communication
in GSO budget development, and work with the inde- Services, Language Services, Technology Services,
pendent auditors to prepare reports. They provide Legal/Licensing/Intellectual Property, Administration,

14
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which includes Office Services and Meetings-Events/ message and improve GSO’s communication with the
Travel-Services (METS), and Human Resources. These Fellowship through these platforms; oversees internal
functions are administered through GSO’s eleven technology and communication efforts; and in general,
departments, by a staff of around 92 employees, addresses the needs of all service assignments.
in service to roughly 1.5 million A.A. members and Each year, directors serving on the AAWS Board (this
other interested parties across the United States and year Carolyn, Clint, Deb, John, Reilly, Vera, Bob, Racy, and
Canada. Oversight of the General Service Office is I) report to the General Service Conference on services
tasked to AAWS. provided by GSO, AAWS Publishing activities, and other
Alcoholics Anonymous World Services is one of two projects and actions linked directly to A.A’.s primary pur-
operating corporations of the General Service Board. Its pose. Collectively, these activities, as requested by our
members are the trustees of the General Service Board, Fellowship, support the Twelfth Step efforts of members,
who exercise custodial oversight of the corporation by groups, districts, and areas as they endeavor to reach the
electing the directors of the AAWS Board. The AAWS still-suffering alcoholic. On behalf of my fellow AAWS
Board has nine directors — three Nontrustee Directors, directors and with deep appreciation of their tolerance,
two General Service Trustees, two Regional Trustees, the responsibility, flexibility and vision, it is my great privi-
General Service Office General Manager, and the GSO lege to present this report and share a few highlights of
Staff Coordinator. the past year’s activities.
The AAWS Board meets several times a year to hear There have been eight AAWS Board meetings and
reports from GSO management and staff, review updates three strategic planning sessions since the 2023 General
on projects and services, track progress on the imple- Service Conference, as well as over 30 virtual interim
mentation of Conference and board recommendations meetings of AAWS committees, ad hoc committees, and
related to AAWS, review financial reports, consider mat- subcommittees, all to carry out the work with which the
ters related to publishing operations and pricing, review board is entrusted.
permission requests to reprint copyrighted materials, and The Finance Committee and Finance Department
address other topics under its scope. participated in the formulation of the 2023 AAWS/GSB
The board relies on a committee system to effectively Reforecast Budget and 2024 AAWS/GSB Budget. In
address the volume and variety of business matters that addition to the review of International Literature Fund
fall under its purview. The standing committees of the reports, World Service Meeting Fund reports, monthly
board are: financial statements, and IRS Form 990, the Finance
• Finance, which monitors financial results, participates Committee reviewed the 2025 International Convention
in the development of financial reports and annual Budget and recommended revisions where indicated.
and mid-year reforecast GSO budgets, reviews and Committee members and members of the AA Grapevine/
approves the initial budget, registration cost, and sig- La Viña Finance Committee reviewed intercompany pay-
nificant International Convention contracts, reviews ment processes and timelines to improve quarterly cash
literature costs and pricing, and recommends price flow forecasting for both corporations. The Self-Support
adjustments when appropriate. Subcommittee reviewed and suggested updates to self-sup-
• Internal Audit, which develops and oversees a sched- port-related service material, online recurring contribution
ule of AAWS internal audits, reviews and recommends processes, and quarterly contribution reporting.
approval of internal audit processes, and reviews doc- The Internal Audit Committee’s activities includ-
umentation related to functional areas of AAWS that ed review of the revised Business Travel and Expense
require or benefit from internal audits, all to ensure Plan, the AAWS Employee Handbook, IRS Form 990,
that AAWS complies with local, state, and federal reg- and Composition, Scope and Procedure documents for
ulations for not-for-profit organizations. all AAWS committees. Working from established RACI
• Publishing, which oversees AAWS publishing activities, (Responsible/Accountable/Consulted/Informed) matrices,
proposes publishing policy to the board, reviews sales the committee reviewed the implementation of and com-
results, monitors progress of literature production, pliance with Finance, Management, Directors, and Human
approves new formats of A.A. literature, and recom- Resources processes and policies under its purview.
mends initial pricing of A.A. literature and other items The Publishing Committee continued its review of the
under its purview to the AAWS Board. Pamphlet Matrix, updated to include the most recent
• Nominating, which tracks the rotation schedule of costs. Following list price increases effected in April
AAWS vacancies; develops selection criteria, reviews 2023, discussion centered on achieving break-even
resumés, conducts interviews, and makes recom- pricing on pamphlets in alignment with policies of price
mendations to the AAWS Board and the Trustees’ normalization across all languages. The committee also
Nominating Committee to fill Regional Trustee, reviewed and discussed the pricing suggestions provided
Nontrustee Director, and General Service Trustee posi- by the Publishing Department to adjust the list prices
tions on the board. of Audiobooks to align with the adjusted list prices of
• Technology/Communications/Services, which reviews E-books implemented on April 3, 2023.
status reports on current and evolving digital/virtual The Nominating Committee updated its Composition,
platforms, suggests ways to enhance efforts to carry our Scope, and Procedures document to include in the secre-

15
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tary’s duties the responsibility of updating AAWS Actions message to the Fellowship, outlining financial challenges
and Resolutions. The committee conducted interviews we continue to face in these difficult economic times.
with first-year Regional Trustees and made a recommen- The response from individual members, groups, dis-
dation to the AAWS Board to fill the Regional Trustee tricts, areas, and other A.A. entities has been over-
opening that will occur at the close of this year’s General whelming. December 2023 contributions alone were
Service Conference. They began the search process to $1,684,109, almost $300,000 more than in 2022. Record-
fill two Nontrustee Director positions that will be coming level contributions, large and small, have continued into
open in 2025, and recommended to the AAWS Board that 2024, offering both a bit of respite from current financial
Pamela P., Executive Secretary to the General Manager, challenges and a great sense of optimism about our
be appointed as AAWS Board Secretary. financial outlook in the years ahead. The dollar amount
The Technology/Communications/Services Committee of every contribution is, of course, secondary to its spir-
achieved great success with the successful launch of itual significance — to the possibility that the services it
the OnBoard platform for the October 2023 AAWS funds may allow alcoholics who still suffer to join us on
Board Meeting. This long-awaited replacement to the the Road of Happy Destiny.
“Dashboard” has surpassed expectations. The implemen- Returning to finances, 2023’s contributions of over
tation process was seamless, thanks to a well-planned $10.782 million were 4% more than budgeted and
strategy. The new platform has already increased efficien- roughly $323,000, or 3%, higher than in 2022. Gross
cy and brought invaluable benefits. Since its launch, tiles literature sales were $14.640 million, 8% less than
for the General Service Conference, AA Grapevine, and budgeted but 22% higher than in 2022. Net literature
the General Service Board have been activated. Updates sales (gross margin) were $6.762 million, 15% less than
and additional features continue to be implemented, fur- budgeted but 38% higher than in 2022. Gross margin as
ther enhancing the usefulness of the platform. a percentage of literature sales, budgeted at 50%, was
At each meeting, the TCS Committee reviewed analyt- 46.2%, versus 40.8% in 2022. Operating expenses were
ics reports from aa.org, Google Ads, LinkedIn, the Meeting $17.508 million, 15% less than budgeted but 10% higher
Guide app, Online Business Profiles, and YouTube. The than last year, as anticipated.
committee received regular reports on the progress of So, just what services did our Fellowship’s contribu-
the Data Integrity Working Group, a project established tions make possible over the past year? GSO Department
in early 2023 by the Director of Technology Services reports and Trustees’ Committee and Staff Reports will
and Business Systems Specialist with Group Services and offer much more detail, but here is a small sampling:
Member Services to address issues associated with group Starting with GSO’s Operations Department, in calen-
and member data across GSO. The group has made sig- dar year 2023, the Member Services team received and
nificant strides in addressing missing, duplicate, inaccu- responded to 27,475 unique email inquiries, handled
rate, and outdated records. Work continues on improve- 13,808 phone calls, and reviewed and processed 31,168
ments to Quarterly Contribution Statements. literature orders. The Mail and Shipping team of two
Other board activities included strategic planning, a processed a total of 35,623 pieces of incoming mail and
Service Manual and Service Material subcommittees, an 9,599 pieces of outgoing mail, and the Front Desk asso-
ad hoc Intellectual Property committee, and an ad hoc ciate received and routed 12,045 phone calls.
committee to develop departmental reporting for use in
The Staff Services Department:
the location study.
GSO General Manager Bob W. and the amazing group • Responded to 165,420 emails and 1,677 phone calls,
of people he works with provided superior support and an average of 15,000 emails and roughly 1,250 work
services to the AAWS Board. Every board meeting, every hours per staff member.
committee meeting, in person or virtual, involved an • Welcomed 1,470 visitors and 12 large groups of more
abundance of staff resources. Assistance from directors, than 20 members to GSO in 2023, with ten groups
managers, and staff of every department was integral to booked through June of this year.
the board’s work. I am deeply appreciative of the quan- • The Cooperation with the Professional Community
tity and quality of work these special workers undertook assignment stays in touch with:
and the professionalism with which they performed it. • 63 Area and 136 District Treatment Committee chairs
Detailed financial reporting for 2023 is in the • 22 Area and 41 District Bridging the Gap chairs
Conference Manual and the Final Conference Report, so
I would like to offer just a brief overview of last year’s • 44 Area and 59 District Accessibilities Committee chairs
finances. Fellowship contributions and revenue from • 11 Area and 10 District Hospital and Institution
sales of A.A. literature are the sole sources of income that Committee chairs.
fund AAWS’ services. The Corrections assignment receives about 50 let-
In 2023, Seventh Tradition contributions to the General ters a week from persons in custody. Tablets availability
Service Board of Alcoholics Anonymous reached an all- in correctional settings continues to increase. There
time high of over $10,872,000 million. I want to pause were 41,500 unique interactions with A.A. e-books and
and acknowledge the extraordinary level of support from 48,606 unique interactions with A.A. audiobooks in
our beloved Fellowship in 2023. In November, Bob W., 2023. In addition, 1,355 matches were made through the
GSO General Manager, wrote an annual Gratitude Month Corrections Correspondence Service app.

16
 CONTENTS

Since its inception, the Legal, Licensing, and Intellectual AA GRAPEVINE, INC.

I
Property Department has processed over 1,100 licensing
n 1944, a dedicated team of six A.A. members embarked
requests. All existing requests have been recorded in the
on a remarkable and historic mission. These dedicated
TLC portal, the backlog of requests has been eliminated,
volunteers came together to collect and publish stories
and the department is operating within a 45-day process-
about the recovery journeys of early A.A.s from commu-
ing window for new requests.
nities across the country. They called it The Grapevine.
In the past year, the Language Services Department
Each issue of The Grapevine was a testament to their
received over 1,500 translation requests, not including
dedication. These six people led this entire eight-page
Conference background materials.
project, united in their belief in the power of shared expe-
The GSO Archives Department consisting of roughly
rience, strength and hope. Two years later, Bill W. began
2,642 cubic feet of holdings, responded to 1,450 research
to formalize the Grapevine structure believing that the
requests and welcomed five onsite researchers.
Grapevine should become the voice of A.A. as a whole.
The Publishing Department reports that during the
Eighty years later, AA Grapevine, Inc. is now a mul-
2023 Holiday Sale alone, over 208,000 print and video
timedia publisher and one of the affiliate corporations
versions of the Big Book and “Twelve and Twelve” were
of the General Service Board. The Grapevine and La
purchased. All versions catalogued for sale in the United
Viña archives hold more than 30,000 stories from the
States and Canada, in languages from Amharic to Zulu, Fellowship and the founders sharing the experience,
were included in the sale. The revised “A.A. for the Older strength and hope in English and Spanish of A.A. mem-
Alcoholic — Never Too Late,” and “Young People in A.A.,” bers and others.
“Daily Reflections” audio format, and the QSL/LSQ video
translation of the “Access to A.A.” pamphlet are but a few Today, a team of fifteen paid employees serve the
items seeing strong sales post-release. Fellowship by:
In a group effort, members of several departments • Publishing two 64-page magazines: “Grapevine” the
implemented tracking and process management of English-language monthly and “La Viña” the Spanish-
“stuck” literature items, which for various reasons were language bimonthly — each one of them with original
stalled in the publishing process. As of March 2023, there content. A total of 18 issues are released each year.
were numerous backlogs in moving projects through • Managing four mobile apps: Grapevine and La Viña
updating, translation into French and Spanish, and ulti- each on Android and iOS platforms since September
mately into production. By July 2023, the backlog had 1, 2023.
been reduced to 85 items. As of February 2024, 73 of • Maintaining two unique websites, one for each maga-
those items had been approved to print/were back in zine in their respective languages.
stock, and 12 were actively in the revision/update/reprint • Recording and publishing the audio of every issue in
process and would be printed in the coming weeks. Spanish and English on the apps and website.
The aa.org website, Meeting Guide app, A.A. YouTube
channel, and LinkedIn are just a few more examples of • Providing one weekly English-language podcast, “The
the many services funded by Fellowship contributions. AA Grapevine Half-Hour Variety Hour”.
It is fitting that the theme of this year’s General Service • Collecting and publishing audio stories on YouTube,
Conference is “Connecting with Love, Unity and Service.” along with member and staff-created videos of recov-
I want to share my gratitude for the spirit of cooperation ery stories, history, how-to, and the podcast.
demonstrated by all three boards over the past year. In • Creating and managing content for two social media
difficult times, both corporations, AAGV/LV and AAWS, pages on Instagram, one in English “alcoholicosanon-
under the custodial oversight of the General Service ymous_gv” and the other in Spanish “alcoholicosann-
Board, have worked together to refine intercompany pay- imos_lv.”
ment schedules. The chairs of all three boards, the GSO • At the same time, they also maintain and publish a
GM, and the AAGV/LV Publisher met regularly for updates library of over forty books across three languages,
on each entity’s activities. Communication has been including eBooks and Audiobooks.
enhanced, Unity has been strengthened, and the ability The traditional magazine landscape is facing declining
to fulfill our respective missions has been improved. We print readership, but that will not define our future. The
have connected, in love, unity, and service. Grapevine and La Viña apps help us connect with readers
The AAWS Board and GSO staff members have worked and their changing habits. The public increasingly uses
and will continue to work hard to help carry, and help mobile devices and is time-pressed. Individuals on aver-
others carry, our message of recovery. Today, tomorrow, age spend over three hours daily on their smartphones
or one day in the distant future, a still-suffering alco- compared to just 11 minutes with print publications.
holic may come to embrace our program because of We’ve enhanced Grapevine’s and La Viña’s online
these efforts. As I rotate from the board of Alcoholics engagement. Following up on the Advisory Actions from
Anonymous, I am filled with joyful gratitude at the oppor- the 71st Conference in 2021, the Grapevine introduced a
tunity to maybe, just maybe, help them find their way to weekly podcast and two Instagram accounts. This comes
our way of life. on the heels of expanding to YouTube in 2017, following
Cathi C., Chair the Advisory Action of the 67th Conference.

17
 CONTENTS

The AA Grapevine podcast, The AA Grapevine Half- reached 1,574 followers in February 2024!
Hour Variety Hour, started with 80,000 downloads in YouTube, a video-sharing platform, has 239 million
2021, and has experienced phenomenal growth. By users in the United States and 17 million in Canada.
January 2023, it had garnered a loyal following with The average user spends nearly 20 minutes per day on
335,000 downloads. By February 2024, the podcast the platform, with the core audience falling between
boasts a staggering 742,300 downloads, demonstrating the ages of 18 and 34. Within this vibrant space, the
its impact on the lives of those seeking recovery in A.A. Grapevine channel has experienced impressive growth
We’ve reached over 280,000 unique listeners with our since January 2023, with 9,600 subscribers. In February
podcast. 2024 we’ve grown to over 12,500 subscribers, seeing
Instagram, a popular photo and video sharing app, is continued success in engaging viewers.
home to over 133 million users in the United States. It is The Grapevine and La Viña websites have driven
particularly popular with young adults aged 18-24, 75% continued engagement: website traffic, measured by
of whom use the social media platform. Notably, Canada user sessions, has demonstrably increased. In 2022, the
also exhibits significant engagement with nearly 20 mil- Grapevine website saw 1,326,584 sessions, with that
lion users and a dominant presence of the 18 to 34 age number rising to 1,411,584 sessions in 2023. Similarly,
group making up about 55% of the platform base. La Viña website sessions grew from 56,126 in 2022 to
Grapevine: From 8,957 followers in 2023, we’ve grown 86,887 as of October 5, 2023. These figures indicate
to 11,500 by February 2024! positive audience response to our continuing website
La Viña: Starting with 1,100 followers in 2023, we’ve enhancements.
Did you know A.A. members can
sponsor print subscriptions to those
in need of help through the Carry the
Message program? Whether a person
contacts the Grapevine office directly
or reaches out to the Corrections,
Public Information, or Cooperation
with Professional Community desks
asking for help, they will receive
a complimentary print subscrip-
tion fully paid by A.A. members or
groups who contribute to the Carry
the Message program. Throughout
2023 alone, this generosity resulted
in an incredible 1,633 complimentary
subscriptions being gifted, thanks to
the support of members and groups
like you. See the Carry the Message
Project on the Grapevine/La Viña
websites for more information.
The Grapevine strategic planning
meetings provide the board with
a dedicated time to discuss and
improve our current objectives. At
the December 2023 strategic meet-
ing, the Grapevine Board resolved to
continue evolving beyond print, as
outlined in the 2022 five-year plan
for app development and sustainabil-
ity. Let us meet our members where
they are: in both the digital and
print realms. We can thrive in this
ever-changing media landscape by
embracing innovative strategies and
focusing on engaging content that
is increasingly accessible via mobile
platforms.
Allow me to highlight that the
Grapevine and La Viña print maga-
zines will continue to be published.
The print magazines continue to help

18
 CONTENTS

app reaches a significant user base, Grapevine, Inc. is

projected to become profitable. The current 2024 budget
reflects the planned investments outlined in the 2022
five-year plan.
The 2024 budget boasts improvements, closing the
gap for Grapevine by nearly $300,000, compared to
the July 2023 reforecast, and almost $200,000 for La
Viña. This shift not only stabilizes finances but also fuels
growth, providing resources to expand sales of maga-
zines, apps, books, audiobooks, and other products.
To optimize resources, we’ve implemented some
travel adjustments for A.A. events. Each event will now
have one designated staff member and one director in
attendance. While directors retain the freedom to choose
which events they participate in, only the assigned direc-
tor will receive travel reimbursements from Grapevine.
This approach, coupled with all 2024 Planning Meetings
being virtual will save approximately $50,000 this year.
To ensure the continued quality and delivery of vital
resources to the Fellowship, Grapevine is adjusting sub-
scription prices. Effective April 15, 2024, the annual cost
of a Grapevine subscription will increase to $36.00. We’ve
kept subscription prices steady for several years, but the
rising costs of paper, production and mailing now make
an increase necessary. La Viña’s subscription price will
stay as is for now, but is also under careful review, with
a potential adjustment being considered. Importantly, all
app subscription prices will remain unchanged.
Grapevine is focused on increasing its subscription
margins. Currently, “Complete” subscriptions, offering
both print and digital access, have a significantly higher
traditional subscribers, groups, and twelve-step work profit margin than print-only options.
with newcomers and those in correctional facilities and
other institutions. At the same time, we will expand our Here is an example:
digital delivery. Unit
Full-year Full-year Full-year Impact
Building a thriving online subscription-based com- Subscription type Revenue Cost Net per
Variance
Impact Impact Impact Unit
munity takes time and dedication. In the early stages,
outreach efforts to gather a passionate audience often AA Grapevine
lead to initial expenses exceeding revenue. However, as Magazine 1,000 $36,000 $22,899 $13,101 $13.10
the community flourishes, the app progressively reaches
a “break-even” point where income and costs balance. In App 1,000 $30,000 $4,500 $33,101 $33.10
the subscription world, from magazines to e-commerce Complete 1,000 $56,000 $22,899 $25,500 $25.20
to apps, achieving profitability within 3-5 years is often
considered a remarkable success. Grapevine’s journey
La Viña
requires investment, patience, Fellowship engagement,
and a commitment to nurturing connections. Magazine 1,000 $14,500 $11,704 $2,746 $2.75
To improve Fellowship interaction and engagement
App 1,000 $14,990 $2,249 $12,742 $12.74
with the apps, a Digital Engagement Editor was added
to the staff. This position develops and implements app Complete 1,000 $24,480 $11,704 $12,776 $12.78
content, outreach strategies, and orchestrates commu-
nications and presentations across different platforms This winter we targeted print-only subscribers with
including digital, YouTube, Instagram, podcast, and print. an offer to upgrade to a “Complete” subscription at a
We note that increased attention to Grapevine through discounted price ($10 vs. the usual $20). And we plan
the app launch and the impact of our multi-media strat- to implement similar strategies throughout the year to
egy drove subscription revenue in 2023 to nearly equal encourage users to switch to more profitable subscrip-
2022, with increased sales of “Grapevine Complete,” our tions.
premium print and digital product. Our book publishing program is undergoing signifi-
The Grapevine expects financial losses from 2022 cant expansion in 2024, with the strategic introduction
to 2024 due to decreasing print subscriptions and the of three new titles. February will see the release of
ongoing attraction efforts for the mobile app. As the “Prayer and Meditation” audiobook, followed by a print

19
 CONTENTS

book “Our Twelve Steps” in April, and the “Emotional an average circulation in 2023 of 6,392 subscriptions
Sobriety” audiobook in September. Additional attraction necessitates additional support from the General Service
efforts for existing backlist titles will be communicated Board to bridge the gap between revenue and operation
throughout the year. expenses. The AA Grapevine Board and management
In pursuit of responsible fiscal management, Grapevine team continue to seek opportunities for internal cost
is embarking on a staff optimization program for 2024. reduction through operational review.
Our primary objective is to minimize reliance on free- As of January 2024, the Fellowship Connection data-
lance and temporary positions, while preserving our val- base identified 4,725 Spanish-speaking groups within
ued core workforce. This strategic decision is grounded the United States and Canada Fellowship. Prior to the
in a meticulous review of 2023 expenditure data, which COVID-19 pandemic in 2019, La Viña magazine enjoyed
revealed opportunities to shift previously outsourced a readership of over 10,000 subscribers. Traditionally, La
tasks toward our internal staff. Furthermore, technology Viña subscriptions benefited significantly from in-person
investments made in 2023 have significantly increased events such as state Hispanic conventions and regional
our team’s internal capabilities. As the Grapevine Director celebrations like the “La Viña Anniversary” hosted by
of Operations prepares for retirement in May, we plan to the Pacific region. Additionally, interactions with La Viña
manage her responsibilities through adjustments within representatives and La Viña editor played a key role in
the existing team structure and the potential addition of driving subscriptions.
an office manager role instead of hiring a new Director of Unfortunately, the absence of in-person events during
Operations. This comprehensive approach is projected to the pandemic years resulted in a nearly 50% decline in
generate annual cost savings of approximately $75,000 La Viña’s subscriber base. In 2023 we did see total La
for Grapevine. Viña sales increase by 58% over 2022 driven by book
La Viña is published every two months by AA Grapevine, sales more than doubling.
Inc., as a service to the Spanish-speaking community. La La Viña representatives often played a dual role:
Viña publishes original content written by Hispanic A.A. informing members about the magazine and new prod-
members. While subscriptions partially support La Viña, ucts, while also handling subscriptions and resolving
customer issues on behalf of the subscribers. This cultural
approach has been impacted by the way the Grapevine
office attend questions, concerns, and issues, necessi-
tating adjustments to both customer service and sub-
scription processes. As a result of the strategic planning
in 2022, the La Viña editor hosts an informative virtual
monthly session with the Spanish-speaking community
interested in learning about La Viña and creating an open
space for suggestions, concerns, and ideas on how to
increase subscriptions. These meetings continue to have
a good attendance.
While the Spanish-speaking community in A.A. has
shown curiosity and openness to the La Viña app, driv-
ing subscriptions has proven challenging. While print
subscriptions move in the right direction, increasing
awareness to the benefits of the La Viña apps and ways
to start gaining traction in the community are part of our
strategic planning. We are working on a 5-year plan for
La Viña that will bring the GSB contribution to pre-pan-
demic levels.
The International Convention in 2025 as well as other
events in person or virtual are crucial venues to present
all that Grapevine and La Viña offer. Our strategy involves
targeted informative initiatives specifically tailored to dif-
ferent communities, ensuring everyone feels welcomed
and engaged.
Thank you for allowing me to serve on the Grapevine
Board. I thank the office staff, the Publisher and my fel-
low board members for their kindness, passion and hard
work. And thank you to all in the Fellowship who have
contributed their stories to the Grapevine and La Viña,
extending their hands to help still-suffering alcoholics for
the last 80 years. Gracias todos.
Paz P., Chair

20
 CONTENTS

■ Finance Report
The Finance report, which is summarized and condensed here, was given on Monday evening by Kevin Prior, treasurer of the
General Service Board and chair of the trustees’ Finance and Budgetary Committee, covering the audited 2023 finances of
the General Service Board, AAWS, the Grapevine, and La Viña. The accompanying slides are not included in this publication
but are available upon request. For more details on A.A. finances, see the report of the trustees’ Finance and Budgetary
Committee (page 77) and the independent auditor’s statement and audited consolidated financial statements that appear on
pages 115 – 128 of this report.

G
ood evening. My name is Kevin Prior, and I am a 3. Approximately $31,000 in 2024 contributions to
Class A trustee and treasurer of the General Service the General Service Board was recorded in 2023.
Board. It is my privilege to deliver this year’s 4. The post-retirement medical plan benefit liability
Treasurer’s report to the 74th General Service Conference and expense were overstated by approximately $357,000
of Alcoholics Anonymous. and $320,000, respectively. Interest earned by the plan
As per the five year rotation policy adopted by the
assets was understated by approximately $36,000.
Trustees Finance and Budgetary Committee and imple-
mented by the Trustees Audit Committee, a new audit BDO presented one recommendation to strengthen
firm, BDO, was engaged for the 2023 independent audit. GSO financial operations, three to strengthen Grapevine
Matthew Becker, BDO lead engagement partner, present- financial operations, one to strengthen Human Resources
ed the audit report. operations, and one to strengthen intercompany account-
BDO issued an unmodified or “clean” audit opinion, ing. Management will implement all six recommendations.
which means that the financial statements are fairly Seventh Tradition Self-Support was $10.84 million in
stated in all mate- 2023, 3% more than the $10.55 million received in 2022.
rial respects. The
auditors identified Growth of Online Contributions — 2014–2023
and corrected four
$10,000,000
misstatements:
1. C o n t r i b u t e d
nonfinancial assets $8,000,000
(the value of airtime
donated by TV sta-
$6,000,000
tions to air PSAs)
of $34 million were
not recorded in $4,000,000
2022.
2. C o n t r i b u t e d
$2,000,000
nonfinancial assets 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023
of $17 million were MAIL ONLINE
not recorded in
A mail contribution cost $5.60 to process. An online contribution costs $2.93 to process, a $2.67 savings.
2023.

Seventh Tradition Self-Support — 2015–2024

$12,000,000
10,775,871 10,841,419
10,548,525 10,500,000
10,256,687
$10,000,000
8,863,480
8,385,009
8,049,452
$8,000,000 7,934,869
7,154,146

$6,000,000

$4,000,000

$2,000,000
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Budget

21
 CONTENTS

We are grateful to
the Fellowship for Contributions by Type of Contributor — 2023
their continued sup-
port especially due
to lingering effects
of the pandem-
ic on publishing
gross profit, which Individuals; $3,540,104
was $6.76 million 32.7%
in 2023, 15% less
than the budget of Other Organizations; $496,004
$7.95 million. 4.6%
Additional facts
about 2022 contri- IGCOs; $260,604
butions include: 2.4% Groups; $5,950,279
• 26% of contribu- 54.9%
Areas and Districts; $594,429
tions were made
5.5%
online by credit
card or PayPal. Groups Individuals Other Organizations IGCOs Areas and Districts
Online contribu-
tions cost about the filling of vacant positions during 2023, and increased
half as much to process as check contributions travel and meeting costs. However, 2023 operating
because they require significantly less labor. expense was still lower than inflation adjusted operating
• 55% of contributions were received from groups; 33% expense in 9 of the past 10 years. 90% of operating
from individual members of the Fellowship; and 12% expense was in categories where expenses were less
from Intergroups, Central Offices, Areas, Districts, and than budget.
other organizations. The GSO ended the year with an operating surplus
• Slightly less than one third of active groups contrib- before depreciation of $581,907. In addition, cash
uted, and the average annual group contribution was increased by $359,000, primarily due to increased con-
$328.65. tributions.
• The average individual contribution was $129.88. The Grapevine paid print subscription revenue decreased
most common individual contribution was $50.00. 12% in 2023. However, subscription revenue for the
• The Calculated Challenge Contribution is $6.43 (Cost online, complete, and mobile app magazine increased
of program services per member) 72% due to the mobile app launch and increased com-
plete subscriptions.
• 62% of group contributions and 73% of individual con- Overall, Grapevine achieved a gross margin on sub-
tributions were $100 or less. The core of Self-Support scriptions of $601,000 and a gross margin of $563,000
is the many members of the Fellowship who make on other published items. Operating expenses of $2.06
smaller contributions and not the few who make large million resulted in an operating loss of $888,000 com-
contributions. In fact, only 66 individual contributions pared to a loss of $445,000 in 2022. La Viña magazine
were the max-
imum amount
of $5,000 while Number of Group Contributions by Dollar Value — 2023
19,942 individu-
al contributions 16,000,000
were $100 or less. 14,000,000
13,862

12,608
GSO operating 12,000,000
expense before
10,000,000
depreciation was
$17.47 million, up 8,000,000
10% from $15.90 6,000,000 5,175
million in 2022. The
4,000,000 3,309 3,500
largest contributors
to the increase were 2,000,000 1,427
973
466 223 241 337
the creation of two 0
134 121

$0 - $50 $50 - $100 $100 - $150 $150 - $200 $200 - $300 $300 - $400 $400 - $500 $500 - $600 $600 - $700 $700 - $800 $800 - $900 $900 - $1,000 $1,000 +
new GSO depart-
Number of Contributions
ments in mid-2022,

22
 CONTENTS

Inflation Adjusted GSO Expense History

In 2023, operating expense was lower than inflation adjusted operating expense
in 9 of the past 10 years
TOTAL OPERATING EXPENSE AAWS + GSB
$24,000,000

$22,000,000

$20,000,000

$18,000,000

$16,000,000

$14,000,000

$12,000,000
2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
Budget
Nominal Inflation Adjusted

circulation increased by 1% in 2023. General Service of 7,836 compared to 6,484 in 2023. General Service
Board support of the La Viña service activity was Board La Viña support is budgeted at $570,000 com-
$753,000 in 2023 compared to $640,000 in 2022. pared to $755,000 in 2023.
The General Service Board has approved a 2024 GSO A more detailed analysis of 2023 GSO and Grapevine
budget with an operating surplus before depreciation consolidated expenses shows that personnel expenses
of $617,945. This budget forecasts operating revenue (salaries, benefits, and payroll taxes) make up 59% of
of $19.64 million compared to $18.06 million in 2023. operating expenses. This is typical for not for profits or
Revenue is largely made up of contributions, budgeted any organization that produces a service rather than a
at $10.5 million and literature gross margin, budgeted at product. Professional fees make up about 10% of oper-
$8.49 million. Operating expense before depreciation is ating expenses. The remaining operating expenses are
budgeted at $19.02 million compared to $17.47 million comprised mainly of:
in 2023. • Facilities (including rent) and equipment 11%
In addition, the GSB approved a Grapevine budget • Travel and meetings 10%1
with a net operating deficit of $583,000 compared to a
deficit of $888,000 in 2023. Gross margin on subscrip- During 2023, our prudent reserve decreased by
tions is budgeted at $1.15 million compared to $581,000 $293,699 from $12.92 million to $12.63 million (net of
in 2023. Grapevine circulation is expected to be 61,663 $573,012 Grapevine subscription liability). The decrease
compared to 55,412 in 2023. La Viña projects circulation resulted from a $500,000 drawdown offset by $206,301
in investment earn-
ings. The $12.63
Number of Individual Contributions by Dollar Value — 2023 million balance as
of December 31
14,000,000 represents 7.18
12,000,000 11,499 months of GSO and
GV 2023 operating
10,000,000 expenses. Because
8,443
8,000,000 operating expens-
es are budgeted to
6,000,000 increase in 2024,
4,000,000 the December 31
2,181
prudent reserve
2,000,000 1,745
1,355 balance represents
647 559
0
160 80 66 50 153 275 11 6.82 months of
$0 - $50 $50 - $100 $100 - $150 $150 - $200 $200 - $300 $300 - $400 $400 - $500 $500 - $600 $600 - $700 $700 - $800 $800 - $900 $900 - $1,000 $1,000 - $5,000 $5 – 10k
(bequest)
2024 operating
Number of Contributions expenses.
1
The remaining categories are data, automation, and website (3%); office services (4%); and printing (3%).

23
 CONTENTS

■ Location Plus Report

The Location Plus report, which is summarized and condensed here, was given on Wednesday evening by Carolyn W., chair
of the ad hoc Location Plus committee of the General Service Board. The full report, accompanying charts and detailed notes
are not included in this publication, but are available upon request and were provided to all delegates at the 74th General
Service Conference.

Introduction under the guidance of ad hoc committees or the execu-

R
tive team of the office and final reports or recommenda-
elocation Studies of the General Service Office have tions shared with the GSC. Other previous studies were
been conducted approximately every ten years to undertaken in 1988, 1997, 2005 and 2014.
determine if it is the most viable venue for its oper- In advance of the expiration of the current lease cycle
ations and provide recommendations on fact-based relo- on December 31, 2025, the concept of a location plus ad
cation analysis, as well as subjective considerations that hoc was introduced at the third quarterly GSB meeting
could impact GSO’s ability to effectively render services in 2021 and the ad hoc began its work in January 2022.
to the A.A. Fellowship.
The process involved a comprehensive fact-based
While initially located in Newark, New Jersey in 1938,
evaluation of real estate scenarios and related consider-
New York City has been home to GSO since 1940 with
ations for input by the ad hoc. Additional input gathered
the office relocating six times from areas in downtown
from the corporate boards and as appropriate, from GSO
districts to present location in 1992 at 475 Riverside
and GV management. Evaluation factors central to the
Drive on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. The earlier
process as determined by the consulting team included:
office moves were historically guided by the need for big-
ger space to accommodate “Headquarters” growing ser- Selection criteria
vices and staff. As one early staff wrote about one such • Base Case Definition/Assumption
move, “to be more centrally located for out-of-town trav- • Relocation “scenarios”
elers and also have more room for ourselves to work.” • Employee impacts
The first ever documented Relocation Study Committee • Upfront relocation and annual costs
was appointed in 1975 by the AAWS Board. This commit- • Operation; performance to guiding principles.
tee was appointed to explore the possibility of moving • Consulting recommendation: ‘Go versus No Go.’
and operating GSO to another location. The board felt
The scenarios analyzed were as follows:
that there ought to be careful consideration of “whether
or not GSO might profitably move out of New York City 1. Base Case (current location)
to some other part of the country after our lease expires 2A. In-Manhattan
in another five years.” 2B. Alternative Tri-State Location (short distance)
In January 1977, having reviewed the findings, the 3. Long Distance Location
GSB moved that the Relocation Study report “go to the
1977 General Service Conference with the recommenda- In terms of the Base Case scenario, considerations
tion that the Board felt it would not be in the best interest included assessing potential space reconfiguration and
of the Fellowship to relocate the General Service Office at renegotiation of current lease. Considerations for the
this time.” other scenarios included, but were not limited to the
Future Relocation Studies were undertaken either following:
• Office lease rates
• Accessibility to public transportation
• Commute impact
• Quality of life ranking
• Cost of living expenses (housing and personal taxa-
tion)
• Operating expenses
• Wages
• Professional talent
• Moving costs
• Proximity to air transportation

CONSULTING TEAM MASTER REPORT

FINDINGS AND CONCLUSION
The Master Report was the final deliverable from the
consulting team. It included fact-based findings for the
three Scenarios:

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1. B
 ase Case was not a guaranteed renewal for them. As requested by
(Stay and Renew Lease at 475 Riverside Drive) the GSB, the ad hoc also continued to pursue alternative
2A. Downtown New York locations in case the terms with the Interchurch Center
2B. Jersey City, New Jersey were not satisfactory.
(to minimize commute) This also required us to maintain confidentiality with
the employees to ensure that the negotiations were pre-
3. Long distance Locations
served and that we did not prematurely communicate
(current 3 finalists: Atlanta, Indianapolis,
a decision to them that was still subject to change. It is
and Philadelphia)
important that we all remember that while these dis-
Based on their in-depth methodology, the consulting cussions are of great interest and importance to all of
team recommended “a stay decision and renegotiation/ us as AA members and as Conference members, for our
renewal of the 475 Riverside Drive lease.” Furthermore, employees this is about where they live and work and
the consulting team concluded that “On balance, the the outcome could impact their jobs, homes and families.
business case to move does not appear supportable at For that reason, the report was withheld until the GSB
this time.” affirmed the decision on April 8, and Chris and Bob had a
chance to communicate this to the employees on April 9.
“Plus” Portion There was every effort to get the report to Conference

T
members further in advance of the GSC. It was translated
his location study included an in-depth review of and ready to go. However, the leasing discussions and
internal operations and needs to inform location getting to a letter of intent took some negotiation and
selection. longer than expected. In the interest of securing the best
In collaboration with the executives from both operat- possible deal for Alcoholics Anonymous this work was
ing corporations, and the AAWS and AAGV Boards, work treated with urgency but not overly rushed.
was done to determine the functions that are currently After a period of negotiations with the landlord and their
necessary to provide requested services to the mem- agent, we (our GM and our agent) were able to get a “Letter
bership. This included work to define the characteristics of Intent” with satisfactory lease terms (just last week).
and space needs for office space/work areas in creating These terms were favorable, less than what was included in
estimations of square footage needed and with consider- the projections we based the “stay decision” on.
ation of a positive work environment for our employees Based on the terms in the Letter of Intent the base
and that reflects current best practices; including efficien- rent will be $25.46/sq ft with an estimated 2% annual
cies of scale (physical and otherwise) throughout both increase plus operational costs resulting in $11,222,066
operating corporations with the goal of best serving the of total 10-year occupancy costs for the 11th floor.
Fellowship in a prudent and cost-effective manner. For comparison the current base rent is $24/sq ft for
The vendor further supported this exploration by the 11th floor and $23.28/sq ft for the 8th floor. 2024 bud-
review of all employee job descriptions, work schedules, geted occupancy costs are $3.25 for both the 11th floor
and office utilization and the application of a remote and 8th floor.
work index to quantify hybrid and remote impacts and Various options for renovation will be investigated
an agile calculator to determine overall square footage
to ensure best use of space on the 11th floor, while also
needs agnostic to location choice. This included an onsite
accommodating the 21 employees currently on the 8th
tour of the existing offices to see the practical applica-
floor. The ad hoc recommended, and the GSB agreed,
tions of space modeling and interviews and information
to do the least possible renovations to achieve viable
collected from management, HR department, ad hoc
workspaces. The discussion included concerns regarding
committee.
costs, as well as ensuring an attractive and functional
At the October 2023 GSB meeting, the General Service
work environment.
Board made a decision to renew the lease on the 11th
We have estimates only at this stage. Initial estimates
floor at the Interchurch Center, 475 Riverside Drive. Only
used to compare the financial impact of “stay vs go”
the 11th floor lease will be renewed, and we will no longer
were $2.4 million based on typical per-square-foot costs.
occupy the 8th floor.
In the time since there has been a “test fit” completed
On Monday April 8th the GSB met and affirmed the
by an architect who visited the space to tighten up the
October 2023 decision. The reason for this April 2024
estimate. This brought the estimate for the minor refit
meeting was so the Location Plus Ad Hoc committee
could update the GSB on the status of lease negotiations down to $1.4 million including furniture, cabling and
and renovation projections and seek affirmation of the telecom, etc. Although this is more location-specific than
October 2023 decision now that the landlord and their the initial estimate, it is still an estimate. The next step is
agent have stated intended renewal terms. for us to engage an architect to complete a detailed plan
During the period from November 2023 until just last and develop a budget.
week these discussions have progressed. We wished to For additional information, contact the General Service
retain the best possible negotiating position by ensuring Office.
that the landlord and their agent were aware that we Carolyn W., general service trustee,
seriously considered alternate locations, and that this committe chair ad hoc Location Plus

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■ International Convention Report

E
arly International A.A. Conventions were focal ily-friendly fun to thrill-seeking exploits; from marine
points for important moments in A.A. history. At the exploring to mountaintop luxury, you’ll find plenty of
first Convention, in Cleveland in 1950, our Twelve things to do in Vancouver. Vancouverites know their city’s
Traditions were confirmed, helping to ensure the future culinary scene. They know where to find the best tower
of our Fellowship and at the 1955 Convention in St. of fresh seafood, the finest house-made charcuterie, and
Louis, Bill W. and the Oldtimers turned the leadership of the most delicious taco truck!
the Fellowship over to the General Service Conference. Now, close your eyes and breathe in deep. As the
International Conventions offer the occasion for rich earthy, cedar-scented air fills your lungs, listen to the
and varied experiences, some dramatic and historical, birds twittering, wind rustling through leaves, and ever-
others quiet and serene. Those who talk about attending green needles crunching underfoot as you wander the
an International Convention speak of it as a highlight of forest’s carpeted path. The sound of ocean waves lapping
their sobriety, and the emotion universally expressed is at rocks comes from nearby. The canopy of trees over-
one of gratitude — gratitude for sobriety in A.A. and for head is dappled with sunshine. As you round the corner,
having had the opportunity to celebrate that sobriety Stanley Park’s Lost Lagoon comes into view. Just a few
with tens of thousands of A.A. members and their loved minutes past are the towers and skyscrapers of down-
ones in a spectacular gathering. town Vancouver. This is what inspires us every day. When
When we announced the cancellation of the 2020 we get there, we’ll pack the Vancouver Convention Centre
International Convention in Detroit, July 2-5, it was with handshakes, hugs, kisses, and lots of meetings,
with heavy hearts. Planning for the 2020 International panels, and workshops. And of course, we’ll have those
Convention started in 2008 when Detroit was chosen to extraordinary Big Meetings in the BC Place Stadium.
host the event. From the moment the city was selected, The festivities will begin on Thursday night, July 3,
local leaders extended a warm welcome to A.A., and 2025, with a Block Party with designated venues set
the event was representative of Detroit’s own rebirth as up around the Convention Campus. Music will fill the
a great convention city. The excitement shown by the summer night and you will enjoy a beautiful view of
A.A. community and the people of the greater Detroit downtown Vancouver, BC, Canada, dancing like no one
area was seen throughout the 12-year planning process. is watching, while enjoying fun and Fellowship with other
We want to thank all the local A.A. members who were conventioneers.
ready to volunteer and welcome members from all over At midnight on Thursday, marathon meetings will
the world to the International Convention. Because of the start, and will continue through Sunday morning. Starting
2020 cancellation, it has been ten years since we held an Friday morning, hundreds of meetings will begin at the
International Convention. Vancouver Convention Centre and around the Convention
Bringing us to A.A.’s 90th Anniversary Celebration Campus, and that night we will hold the exciting Parade
in 2025! The theme is “Language of the Heart.” In the of Flags of countries represented at the Convention, fol-
November 1972 Grapevine, Bill W. wrote of his first lowed by the three-speaker Big A.A. Meeting in the BC
visit to A.A. overseas with his wife Lois: “As we jour- Place stadium.
neyed from land to land, we had the same magnificent The wonderful Oldtimers Stadium Meeting will take
adventure in kinship over and over again… Everywhere, place on Saturday night where Oldtimers will be selected
everywhere, it was the same. This was something much from the hat to share with us. What a great way to honor
greater than people cordially meeting people. This was our history and hear first-hand what we used to be like.
no merely interesting comparison of mutual experiences Then, on Sunday morning, we will have our customary
and aspirations. This was far more; this was the com- three-speaker Big Meeting to close out the weekend and
munication of heart to heart in wonder, in joy, and in we will say farewell until 2030 in St. Louis, Missouri.
everlasting gratitude. Lois and I then knew that A.A. could Many who travel to Vancouver with old friends, spon-
circle the globe — and it has.” (Grapevine, January 1988) sors, or home group members, will have those on-the-
In just a little more than a year we will meet to cele- road meetings that form such an important part of our
brate in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. July 3-6, Fellowship sharing. Those A.A. “coincidences” will occur
2025, so mark your calendar! Plans are well under way — a beloved friend you lost track of will show up sober.
to make this a joyous and memorable event. Someone on your Eighth Step list will appear and provide
Vancouver is located on the unceded traditional terri- you with the opportunity to make amends; perhaps you’ll
tories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓ əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱ wú7mesh be on their Eighth Step list, as well. New and lifelong
(Squamish), and səl̓ ilwətaɁɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) peoples, friendships will be made — perhaps in the wee hours of
who have lived on this land for thousands of years. In the morning, as we fellowship over ice cream and coffee.
2014, Vancouver was designated a City of Reconciliation, And Twelfth Step work will take place — we have all
embarking on a sustained relationship of mutual respect heard the stories of alcoholics who got sober during an
with local First Nations. A cosmopolitan city right on International Convention.
the edge of nature, Vancouver makes it easy to combine International Conventions affect not only the A.A.
an urban getaway with outdoor adventure. From fam- members in attendance — they provide a chance for the

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public to see us firsthand and lets the world know that the world without an able and enthusiastic Welcome
A.A. is still alive, flourishing, and available as a commu- Committee. The core of the committee is in place. They
nity resource, locally and internationally. are eager to start and will begin gathering names of vol-
At the 2005 International Convention in Toronto, unteers with a Kickoff Event in January 2025. We antici-
Canada, one of the city department managers who pate that upward of 4,000 volunteers will be welcoming
was there to demand that every city ordinance be fol- convention goers to Vancouver, BC, Canada.
lowed to a tee, ran up to a group on Sunday afternoon All this information will be communicated on GSO’s
and practically shouted “I have one thing to say to you A.A. website, in Box 4-5-9, in special Convention mailings
guys!......Don’t go home.” During the weekend, the love as well as on our other communication channels, such as
and fellowship expressed among the attendees had con- LinkedIn and our Meeting Guide App. In August 2024, we
verted her into an A.A. fan. She said in all her years of will be mailing out the Registration Forms for the 2025
city service, she had never seen such cooperation and International Convention to all Conference members, to
harmony among such a varied group. In Atlanta, a police the GSRs of all active groups and to others in the service
officer “complained” that he had never been hugged and structure, as well as to Intergroups, Central Offices and
thanked so much in the line of duty. General Service Offices around the world.
International Conventions truly enable attendees to Registration and housing will open in September 2024.
live the spirit of love and tolerance and witness the suc- Rooms will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
cess and growth of A.A. around the world. The event pro- As in the past, members will be able to register by mail
vides members with the opportunity for a rededication to or online. Once you have registered, you will be able to
A.A.’s primary purpose. book your housing accommodations.
You, the members of the 74th General Service So, one day at a time, we are preparing for an inter-
Conference, will have a large part to play in the success national celebration of A.A.’s 90th Birthday. We know
and tone of the upcoming International Convention. this Convention will be a powerful example of the joy of
Most of the speakers will come from your recommenda- living. And amid the festive crowds, I hope each of us is
tions. You have already received requests to suggest non- reminded that “In spite of the size and the span of this
A.A. speakers from professional fields. This fall, we will Fellowship, at its core it remains simple and personal.
be asking you to send us suggestions for A.A. members Each day, somewhere in the world, recovery begins
to participate in the over 700 meetings taking place over when one alcoholic talks with another alcoholic, sharing
the weekend. experience, strength, and hope.” (Alcoholics Anonymous,
Another major part in organizing this event is working p. xxii)
with the 2025 Volunteer Welcome Committee. We would Patrick C., GSO Staff,
not be able to welcome so many members from around International Convention Coordinator

The 475 Riverside Drive Players provide a skit highlighting the 2025 International Convention,
featuring characters from the Addams Family.

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■ Presentations
Safety Throughout the Structure control their language if you know what I mean! Not so
with many other meetings where kids had no business
in our Fellowship attending.

M
I often heard members talking about sobering up a
y name is Doug and I’m a grateful member of
horse thief. When that happens, you have a sober horse
Alcoholics Anonymous! ¡Mi nombre es Doug
thief! Nothing changes if nothing changes. I’ve witnessed
y soy un miembro agradecido de Alcohólicos
many fights between members before, during and after
Anónimos! It’s an honor and privilege to serve Southern
meetings. I stood between plenty of guys over the years
California Area 5 as delegate for Panel 73. My sobriety
keeping them away from each other as nasty words and
date is May 22, 1988, and for that I’m truly grateful!
threats were flying freely, as well as cleaning up after
I was asked to present on the topic: “Safety Throughout
one woman attacked another in the restroom before a
the Structure in Our Fellowship.” When I came into A.A.
meeting.
I wasn’t thinking about safety in the rooms and knew Years ago, one of our long-time members, Toni L.,
nothing about our structure. I just wanted to repair the shared about bringing Roscoe into the meetings. She
marriage I had destroyed and maintain a relationship would set her purse on the table and made certain her
with my two-year-old daughter, Amanda. Over the purse was wide open so everyone could see she was
years she and her sisters were frequent visitors at my packing! Yes, Roscoe was the name of her handgun. We
Friday night home group meeting where childcare was laughed every time she shared that story! A.A. meetings
offered. That group was kid-friendly and knew how to were different back then. However, no
one felt threatened by an 80-year-old
woman weighing 100 pounds soaking
wet, especially since Roscoe was no lon-
ger her companion.
As my sobriety and membership in
A.A. solidified, I matured inside and out-
side the rooms, my awareness of safety
issues then came to the forefront. I saw
how some members were targeted, some
were taking advantage of newcomers
and our elderly members. Eventually, the
instinct to protect vulnerable members
switched on my part into action. The
casual conversation with my friends and
other solid A.A. members was the begin-
ning. Confronting members who preyed
upon those newcomers and our vulnera-
ble members became natural, including
a long-timer who was a convicted sex
offender and released back into our com-
munity. Groups asked him to find meet-
ings elsewhere as he was no longer wel-
come to attend our meetings. Long talks
about our Traditions ensued so we could
talk it out and that all had the opportuni-
ty to express their concerns, whether for
the groups’ safety or the long-time A.A.
member’s right to attend meetings.
Hearing safety topics at PRAASA in my
early general service years changed my
focus, as the breadth of these issues were
raised at a larger forum, further discus-
sions made their way into my Area and
local groups as well.
One recent safety concern was brought
to my attention by a friend. A preliminary
agenda item for this year’s Conference,
“Consider a request to develop a pam-

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phlet on the transgender alcoholic.” One member shared on “1728 Sponsorship.”

when issues like this come up in the Fellowship, it typ- A.A.’s 12 Steps X 12 Traditions X 12 Concepts equals
ically reveals personal ideology of certain fellows that 1728. Last year when I attended my first Conference,
adversely affect the transgender community. That’s not I had the opportunity to attend my first 1728 meeting
something I would have predicted. I would hope that and it was actually the first time I heard the term 1728.
“Love and tolerance of others is our code” (Big Book, The concept of 1728 was foreign to me, yet it gave me
page 84), but certainly that’s not always the case. a whole new aspect to the way I can use my experi-
I’ve also seen Central Office delist meetings due to ence, strength and hope to spread A.A.’s Three Legacies:
unruly, raunchy, and unacceptable behavior within online Recovery which brings love, Unity and Service to spread
meetings. A.A.’s primary purpose of helping the still-suffering
Last year’s Conference was another example where alcoholic.
some folks felt their safety was threatened due to the From my experience taking a sponsee through the first
tone in discussion at the microphone related to the Board twelve principles of A.A., the Twelve Steps was a spiri-
Chair situation. Personally, I didn’t share that sentiment, tual journey to recovery that brought the sponsee and I
and didn’t feel threatened in any way. However, I believe closer to knowing ourselves and our character defects,
the concern wasn’t just from shares at the Conference, then closer to a higher power that brought grace, then
but other outside circumstances, as well. the ability to serve others by connecting with love, unity,
I’m impressed with the number of items A.A. has pro- and service.
duced to help the Fellowship address safety. Let me quote At my first home group the daily reprieve I learned
a portion of the “Safety in A.A. flyer” (F-228). “Safety is a about serving my home group, first as greeter, coffee-
topic within A.A. that groups and members may need to maker, supply chair, literature chair then GSR, then the
address to help ensure the ability to carry the message to launch into general service. I realized I had to learn
the alcoholic who still suffers. and grasp the second twelve principles of A.A. -- the 12
“A.A. membership does not include having to tolerate Traditions, which I consider as guidelines for the group
sexual harassment, threats of violence, financial coercion, and guidelines for me to live life with others. My sponsor
or bullying. Nor is pressuring A.A. members into a partic- at the time guided me through the Traditions. So, when
ular point of view or belief relating to medications, reli- it was time and the student appeared I could help my
gion and other outside issues acceptable. No one should sponsees to learn these principles which are guidelines to
have to tolerate racial, sexual orientation, gender, age or be a part of the group and live life with others.
other discrimination when they seek help from A.A.” Most of the sponsees I had helped were local bradahs
Another beautifully written service piece is the “Safety like me, court ordered meat head natives that ran it hard
Card for A.A. Groups” (F-211). and fast, so the journey through the first 24 principles of
“This group strives to safeguard the anonymity of A.A. A.A. was a must for us to stay sober and in recovery. Not
members and attendees; however, keep in mind that until going to district meetings and area assemblies did I
anonymity in A.A. is not a cloak for unsafe and illegal start hearing about the third set of principles of A.A. -- the
behavior. Addressing such behavior and/or contacting the 12 Concepts, which I learned later would give me struc-
proper authorities when appropriate, does not go against ture. By god’s grace I did well in school, I learned English
any A.A. Traditions and is meant to ensure the safety of well. Me and most of my sponsees were country raised,
all in attendance.” you could call us Hawaiian rednecks. So even though I
Unfortunately, some members refuse to call authori- could read the Concepts well it took a while for me to
ties on another member, thinking that’s just not right. It’s comprehend them. For most of the sponsees, when they
incumbent that we, the Fellowship, continue educating first saw the twelve Concepts, found it was like reading a
our groups and A.A. members of the resources available, foreign language, and most stopped there.
that A.A. should always be inclusive, never exclusive, and The journey through general service started at GSR
that our work is not done even when love and tolerance then DCM, when I really needed the structure of the
is embodied in every A.A. member. Concepts. I started learning the Concepts and also got
In conclusion, let it begin with me. “I am responsible, my service sponsor at the time, she was area chair and
when anyone, anywhere reaches out for help, I want helped walk me through them. She is a past delegate
the hand of A.A. always to be there. And for that: I am now, then Intergroup chair, area standing committee
responsible.” chair (CPC), area alternate chair, then area chair. This
Douglas S. — Southern California is when I started being a service sponsor and realized
that members who really loved service wanted and felt
like they needed to learn the third set of 12 principles to
complete the circle of love that was in the program and
1728 Sponsorship

A
recovery.
loha. I’m an alcoholic and my name is Tommy G.. I still find that most of my sponsees hit the roadblock
My homegroup is the Defective Characters on at the Concepts and I have learned to share how all 36
the virtual platform. By god’s grace I get to serve principles help my recovery and use the attraction aspect
Hawaii Area 17 as their Panel 73 delegate. I would like of the program to get them interested. Suggestion is like
to thank the Conference for the loving invitation to share subtle commands and when someone asks for me to be

29
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a service sponsor I suggest we work the Concepts and it our lack of self-confidence; thinking we’re right about
will be a part of that sponsorship. everything, so as not to admit our insecurity in the face
Now, whenever I get to lead a meeting or speak at one, of events and change, wanting to put everything in order
I share about the 36 principles of A.A.: the 12 Steps, the at all costs because of our insecurity, creating controversy
12 Traditions and the 12 Concepts. I share the message because of our rebellious and sometimes belligerent side,
of hope and love in all 36 principles and how by god’s losing our senses to be right by distorting the facts, letting
grace I connect with Love, Unity and Service. others speak for us for fear of rejection, for fear of losing
Mahalo, the recognition of our counterparts... Needless to say, as
Tommy G. Hawaii noted on page 1 of As Bill Sees It, a “profound personality
change” is necessary to advance in one’s life, and this
can only come about through the unceasing practice of
Overcoming the the Twelve Steps and the Twelve Traditions. This explains
the need to give oneself the time necessary to achieve
Barriers to Participation stable emotional sobriety (the so-called suggested times

T
hank you to the 2024 Conference Coordinator of abstinence), an indispensable state of mind to develop
for inviting me to give you a brief presentation before thinking of participating fully, serenely, and loving-
on “Overcoming the Barriers to Participation.” ly in and for A.A.
Remember that the theme of the 2024 Conference is As we know, the Steps teach us honesty, hope, faith,
“Connecting with Love, Unity and Service.” In it, we courage, integrity, a well-placed will, humility, brother-
trace all the elements of participation: being warmly hood, justice, perseverance, spiritual awareness, and
connected to other members who love the mission of service through attentive, selfless listening. Through
A.A. and are willing to serve together to achieve their Traditions, we understand the meaning of WE, the
common goal, helping the alcoholic who still suffers. The importance of unity, and the idea of rowing in the same
notion of participation in A.A. is defined as a personal direction towards a goal understood and known by all.
commitment as a member to cooperate and advance the Putting these principles into practice overcomes the
Fellowship’s operation and achieve its mission and goals. obstacles to participation, at least those that are intrinsic
Participation implies member involvement in discus- to us. Publications, sponsorship, and being an assiduous
sions and decisions affecting the organization, operating member of a home group are the tools to prepare for
rules, and future. It is carried out according to the rights better participation.
of decision, participation and appeal vested in all mem- There are also the so-called extrinsic or factual phe-
bers in a position to serve.
On page 120 of Daily Reflections, we read these words
from the book Dr. Bob and the Good Oldtimers: As Dr. Bob
himself said, “I don’t think we can do anything very well
in this world unless we practice it. And I don’t believe we
do A.A. too well unless we practice it. . . . We should prac-
tice . . . acquiring the spirit of service. We should attempt
to acquire some faith, which isn’t easily done, especially
for the person who has always been very materialistic,
following the standards of society today. But I think faith
can be acquired; it can be acquired slowly; it has to be
cultivated. That was not easy for me, and I assume it was
difficult for everyone else.” Believing in what you do is,
therefore, a prerequisite for participation.
In the Big Book, on page 88, we read: “There is action
and more action. ‘Faith without work is dead…’” Our
only aim is to make ourselves useful. I would add: To
make ourselves useful with self-sacrifice, humility, hones-
ty, and respect for our abilities and those of others.
However, on page 62 of the Big Book, we glimpse
the biggest obstacle to proper participation and involve-
ment. “Driven by a hundred forms of fear, self-delusion,
self-seeking, and self-pity, we step on the toes of our fel-
lows and they retaliate…” Indeed, the alcoholic’s unrec-
ognized, unacknowledged, unmanaged personality could
well be the fundamental obstacle to any healthy and
effective participation and make it perilous: saying we’re
too embarrassed to serve instead of talking about mis-
placed pride; being self-righteous instead of admitting

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nomena that can seem to be obstacles to participation: the opportunity to share those of our structure.
language, stuttering, not being able to read and write, After a warm welcome at the airport, we visited the
physical or mental disabilities, being multi-dependent, General Service Office where we were greeted by Plinio,
remoteness, distance, career, an aversion to the word the General Manager, surrounded by his team.
God, sexual orientation, ignorance, illness...and the list We then all set out to visit the Botero Park, with all its
goes on! marvelous sculptures. We concluded our outing with a
Alcoholics Anonymous has adapted its publications dinner in a typical Colombian restaurant, during which
and services to overcome most of these obstacles, apart we shared our friendship...and a bit of Rule 62. Isn’t the
from illness I would say. And yet, I’ve seen members joy of living the theme of our Twelfth Step?
gather around a sick, hospitalized member to maintain There was a pre-REDELA meeting on October 7,
the bonds they’ve forged with him or her. How many which gave some 450 members, mostly Colombians, the
illiterate members have carried out tasks in A.A. with opportunity to hear delegates to the REDELA share on
enough humility to ask for help from those who can read a series of panels. The event was launched by a virtual
and write? I was told by a mentally disabled person: flag ceremony.
Accept...when I was going through a difficult situation. While the morning plenary focused successively on
He had understood! concepts (Marita’s superb presentation) and on ways
I’m sharing with you today, despite being a unilingual to attract new generations and ensure the Fellowship’s
French speaker. I need to overcome the difficulties that growth after the pandemic, the afternoon plenary focused
this represents to fulfill a promise: to lose my sense of on three topics that called for reflection on the preserva-
uselessness and my fear of people, to experience a new tion of our message and the possible integration of online
freedom and happiness because God has done for me groups into the General Service Conference.
what I couldn’t do on my own, namely, to meet you and It was on this integration of online groups that I had
participate in the destiny of the Fellowship. the privilege of sharing within a presentation entitled
Hoping to have forged more connections with you Virtual groups: how can they be integrated into the General
with love, unity, and service, thank you, interpreters, and Service Conference structure?
thank you for your attention. Among the presentations, those featuring the high-
Céline L., Montmagny, Quebec lights of each country enabled us to clearly identify the
specific characteristics of each structure and appreciate
the hard work accomplished by each. Other presenta-
A.A. International tions focused on our principles, from leadership and
unity to the responsibilities of a Class A trustee.

H
23RD MEETING OF THE AMERICAS
Throughout the rest of the week, international del-
i everyone, my name is Robert and I am an alco- egates shared the experiences, strengths and hopes
holic. The date of my sobriety is August 10, 1985. of their respective countries, through presentations, in
My home group is Le Premier Jour, a French Group workshops and in committees.
in Montreal but online group since the pandemic, and Although all the presentations generated a great deal
I’m serving Alcoholics Anonymous as Trustee-at-Large/
Canada since I was elected at the last General Service
Conference held in NY in April 2023. Many of you were
present. I am so grateful to share with you all today. The
further I get into this task, the more I realize that it’s a
real privilege. I still have so much to learn...
Trustees-at-large have the duty and honor of being
delegates to the A.A. World Service Meeting, represent-
ing the U.S. and Canada in even-numbered years, and
to the Meeting of the Americas (REDELA) which includes
Canada, United States, Mexico, Central America, the
Caribbean and South America in odd-numbered years.
In the year 1978, the Zonal Meetings were born through
a recommendation of the 5th World Service Meeting and
the first one was hosted by Colombia in 1979. At this
time, the meeting was called the Iberoamerican Meeting.
It was not until 1997, that the 10th meeting, hosted by
Mexico, changed the name to Reunión de las Americas
(REDELA) - Meeting of the Americas.
It was in Colombia, 44 years later, that the 23rd
REDELA was held, and where I had the privilege of living
my first experience of this kind, in October 2023. This
first REDELA experience enabled me to learn by listening
to different experiences, while at the same time having

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of interest, it had to be said that the topics of country A.A. Around the World

M
sponsorship and the proliferation of online groups were
the ones that appealed most to participants. We can feel y name is Irene, I am an alcoholic, and I am
a wind of change, linked in particular to technology, and grateful to be a member of staff at the General
an openness to sharing in order to remain united in diver- Service Office. Currently I have the privilege
sity. In fact, I had been asked to kick off the last round of serving on the International desk. I’ve been asked to
table with a presentation entitled Virtual groups: how can share with you, in a few minutes, about A.A. around the
world. The International desk is the contact point at GSO
our structure be inclusive?
for members on all continents and for all who participate
Of course, there was also the committee work, which
in and support the world activity of A.A. This is a truly
raised exciting comments and sharing. For my part, I
exciting assignment, where you can see A.A. springing
attended at Working with Others and Policy/Admission/ up in places where there was none before. But even from
Finances committee - which, in addition to updating the the vantage point of this desk, what can be seen is only
Meeting of the Americas guidelines, selected Bolivia as a small fraction of the world activity of A.A.
the host country for the 24th REDELA. Today, A.A. is present in approximately 181 countries,
While it’s remarkable to see the work each country with about 66 GSOs around the world. Most recently, vir-
is doing to improve, it’s equally remarkable to see the tual platforms have offered additional accessible avenues
impact of the pandemic. In the wake of this turning to potentially connect with alcoholics. In recent years
point, it’s clear that we’re writing a new page in history, the phrase “A.A. around the globe” has taken on a much
especially with the explosion of online groups that have broader meaning.
sprung up as a result. GSO’s International desk shares information and expe-
Inspired by our pioneers who overcame several obsta- rience on the General Service Board structure, activities
cles, and by our 36 spiritual principles that allow us to and GSO services with A.A. groups in countries that
nurture the hope of moving forward, we can rest assured request help in establishing literature distribution centers,
that, even if “we realize we know only a little” as we think boards or general service offices; and cooperates and
about the future, “God will constantly disclose more to us exchanges information with A.A. groups and members
(...). Ask Him what we can do each day for the man who in countries that do not have a General Service Office or
is still sick. The answer will come if your own house is in comparable structure.
order.” Alcoholics Anonymous, page 164 Our trustees-at-large are our delegates to the World
Service Meeting (WSM) and the Meeting of the Americas
The conclusion, meanwhile, urged us to keep our eyes
(REDELA), and GSO management and staff are invited
firmly fixed on the foundations that have shaped our
to the other zonal meetings or national events, such as a
history, and to put into practice our program that enables
General Service Conference or conventions as observers
us to see beyond the horizon and sow hope for a better and resources. International trips are intended to help to
future despite adversity. carry the message and to further our relations with A.A.
FinalIy, it’s important to point out that we used the structures that express a need for shared experience.
REDELA fund to enable Bolivia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Country-to-country sponsorship is a natural focus at
Peru, and Venezuela to take part. In addition to that, these service meetings; delegates from countries where
our structure sponsored Uruguay to take part. Daniel, the Fellowship is firmly established or where it barely has
their international delegate, expressed his gratitude to a toehold offer progress reports on how they are carry-
us, and his participation helped enrich the group con- ing the message. Just as at regular A.A. meetings, they
science expressed throughout the week. All the countries share their experience, strength and problems — and
expressed the idea that it is important to ensure that as frequently return home armed with some very workable
many countries as possible with a structure take part in solutions.
this bi-annual meeting. The World Service Meeting convenes every two years,
This year, with this in mind, REDELA has decided to alternating between New York and a site in a host
do outreach to all Spanish- and English-speaking coun- country. In October of this year delegates from partici-
tries to invite them to our virtual meeting to help them pating countries will be meeting in New York with the
grow their structure through country-to-country sponsor- theme “The Three Legacies in the Digital Era: Our Great
ship and learning through the sharing at our monthly vir- Responsibility to the Alcoholic Being Born Today.” The
tual meetings. So far, Trinidad and Tobago, and Barbados, 28th WSM’s logistics and programming is the responsi-
bility of the international desk. None of this would be
two younger countries in terms of participation, are join-
possible without the help of a stellar Staff Assistant who
ing us. Finally, we also discussed the cases of Nicaragua
is fluent in three languages and several GSO departments
and Cuba, with a view to giving them special attention so
and their dedicated employees.
that they can take part in the 24th REDELA, to be held in The World Service Meeting was conceived as a closed
Bolivia in 2025. forum where members from around the world could
Thank you for your confidence, thank you for my share with each other how A.A. operates in their respec-
sobriety, thank you for my life. tive countries. While the WSM is not a policy-making
Robert L., Trustee-at-large Canada body, and their decisions pertain only to the functioning

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in translating, printing, and distribut-

ing A.A. literature in countries where
assistance is needed. This helps ensure
consistent translation of the A.A. mes-
sage of recovery and supports the man-
agement of copyrighted A.A. material
through licensing arrangement. This, in
turn, supports the integrity of the A.A.
message, and our unity.
Our nonalcoholic friends are a vital
part of the growth of A.A. around the
world. A highlight of many internation-
al trips is meeting Class A trustees and
other professional friends of A.A. Last
November I flew to Guantanamo City,
Cuba, invited by the 8th Congress on
Addictions organized by one of the larg-
est Medical Universities in the country.
While our class A Molly Oliver spoke via
Zoom on A.A. as a resource for the health
professionals, I was able to witness the
incredible work that Cuban A.A. mem-
bers do to reach out to professionals.
During the event, a chance encounter
with one of the guests, a high-ranking
military officer from Venezuela (many
health professionals in Cuba are in the
military) led to an opportunity to share
about our Traditions and explain that
no, the U.S. Government has no control
of A.A. I don’t think I ever shared about
our Traditions in such an impactful
way, the General was surprised to know
about our principle of non-affiliation
and was willing to receive some pam-
phlets and my old pocket version of the
book Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions.
To conclude this presentation, I want
to share a couple of things I have
of the WSM itself, the sharing of experience, the spon- learned in the few months in the
sorship, and the bonds created at these meetings are assignment: There are still countries where there is no
invaluable in our common purpose of reaching suffering A.A., and others where there are vast distances between
meetings and members. In many countries women are
alcoholics anywhere in the world.
still finding difficulties ranging from attending meetings
Early on our founders understood the importance
to serving at the structure level. I have also learned that
of reaching out to other countries. Bill W. wrote in The
requests for translated literature can often come from
Language of the Heart (pages 152-153) that:
our own structure: recently a professional in Illinois
“We now know it is only a question of time when every
called asking for literature and meeting information in
alcoholic in the world will have as good a chance to Swahili. The completion of the translation in Haitian
stay alive and happy as we have had here in America. Creole of the pamphlet “Is AA for Me?” and Chapter 5
Serving the foreign groups has therefore become a of the Big Book “How It Works” followed an expressed
major activity, though we’ve scarcely scratched the need of literature for the large Haitian population living
total problem so far. If A.A.’s Headquarters had never in our structure.
done anything else, this effort alone is worth many We may not be able to find established A.A. meetings
times its cost.” everywhere we go, but we can be the spark that starts
The explosion of new A.A. activity internationally them. The A.A. message of hope will continue to spread,
since the 1980s has created an enormous need for basic as long as we, the members, carry it with us, and act as
A.A. material. In response, GSO U.S./Canada allocates the messengers.
funds from the International Literature Fund to assist Irene D., GSO Staff, International Assignment

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■ Workshop Summary
This year, on the Sunday opening of the 74th General Service Conference, the Workshop topic was “Connecting Home Groups to
the Conference Throughout the Year, to Better Inform the Group’s Conscience.” The workshops were attended by all Conference
members: delegates, trustees, GSO and Grapevine/La Viña staff, as well as by AAWS and Grapevine directors.

T
his year on the Sunday and Monday of the member of a local or area committee.
74th General Service Conference, the Workshop Newsletters and hybrid meetings also fostered helpful
topic was “Connecting the Home Group to the communication. Most agreed that Regional Forums with
Conference throughout the Year to Better Inform the the GSO staff were quite helpful. Many reported that they
Group’s Conscience.” The workshops were attended by hold mini conferences to go over agenda items, and that
delegates, trustees, GSO and Grapevine staff, as well as GSR sharing sessions, held virtually, have been initiated,
by AAWS and Grapevine directors. Ten breakout groups however they are not yet well attended.
of a dozen or more attendees met in Marriott Hotel con- One concern expressed several times was that GSR
ference rooms to discuss the posed questions covering engagement is limited — not enough groups have a
how to bring the Fellowship and the service structure in GSR to participate. We should make service attractive
closer alignment. with sharing sessions, and personal engagement and do
The first question was, “How can General Service Reps more to inform and educate the GSRs on how they can
engage with the Conference structure throughout the participate. Most of the delegates stated that their areas
year? What opportunities are there?” hold GSR orientation sessions to help GSRs get started. A
Some of the common themes stressed throughout new GSR often feels like they are trying to “drink from
the breakout rooms were engaging with members on a a firehose.”
personal level and making service attractive. Some of the Much was said on the importance of educating the
common challenges were knowing who is receiving infor- Fellowship on the importance of the group. That GSRs
mation provided, and then determining who is engaged are active when they have an active sponsor, just as
after communicating. And to acknowledge that technol- with groups. If they have a GSR, they are involved. As
ogy is changing so fast and affecting what and how we delegate help keep a district active. As regional, try to
share information. Some shared how their Assemblies educate on a regional level. Dark Districts are fostered
offered the chance to share information and how good back into activity by adjoining districts. Just reading the
communication between the delegate and the GSRs was Service Manual is not enough! We must add joy to be
paramount. attractive! Folks today need more engagement than just
Suggested opportunities included: Area Assemblies, books. GSRs are able to engage if they are informed on
workshops, district meetings, AAWS Highlights, Service how they can engage.
Manual training, service sponsorship, and becoming a Sharing sessions, delegate reports or roundups, assem-

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blies, and pre-Conferences are all utilized. One area has distribute Conference information at the area, district,
all their GSRs register for pre-Conferences and then the and group level, so that individual members can have a
GSRs are randomly selected to a “Conference committee” voice on Conference topics?”
and participate just like the Conference. Some delegates Great strides in using tech were taken due to the pan-
travel around to their areas and bring the “Conference” demic. Several use virtual meeting spaces to update and
with them along with holding workshops to encourage share information. Translation software has come into
enthusiasm. Servants in the bottom of the triangle need use. Moving documents online, holding virtual informa-
to make time to engage with all members. It is important tion meetings, using QR codes for reports, as well as
not to be “too advanced” with those newer to service. Survey Monkey, password protected docs, and WordPress
This discussion led into the second question posed, forms were all practical suggestions.
“How do we make General Service Work more acces- Password protected places on area websites to share
sible?” agenda items and background material and MailChimp
By performing Conference work throughout the year, to send out high volume emails, including large attach-
not just in preparation for the Conference. We need to ments like background information. Google workspace
concentrate on positive aspects in reports and personal has a free service for 501c3 organizations, where each
engagements, expressing enthusiasm. We should encour- trusted servant is assigned an account that can roll over
age an appropriate tone of voice when talking about ser- during rotation. Some areas make their virtual accounts
vice, invite “new” people to district/area service meetings available to all districts for virtual meetings or sessions.
and show an interest and willingness to reach out. All agree, if people are not accessing the material, then
Face to face meetings helped improve a better under- all the technology won’t help.
standing of service. As delegates reaching out the hand Delegates share information through Zoom sharing
of A.A. can be more effective than telling the individual sessions, Google Drive for background dissemination and
to serve. Demonstrate the joy of service. Google Forms for collecting Group Conscience back. Area
One area grouped districts into “clusters” and each websites have been a steady platform for distributing
district in a cluster hosts a forum once during the two- information. One area utilizes Drop Box links.
year rotation, to move discussions around. Another area Delegates shared varied experience on hybrid assem-
holds three in-person sharing sessions where anyone blies: Some very successful and a few still working it out.
can address any Conference agenda item they wish. Every area reported they have a technology committee.
Area officers and committee chairs travel to the districts, One visitor from the UK service structure said they put
rather than having GSRs and DCMs, and other trusted their service magazine online and nobody read it, so they
servants travel to area events. And, an active accessibility went back to print. Gauging by responses, they feel more
committee is key to reaching all who need to be reached. people are reading it in print, and they have more filled
Both previous questions touched on the use of technol- service positions. Despite the savings garnered by taking
ogy which was highlighted in the third question — “How publications online instead of printing them, “We can’t
are we using technical advancements in technology to put a price on peoples’ lives.”

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■ Advisory Actions
Conference Advisory Actions represent recommendations made by the standing committees and approved by the Conference
body as a whole or recommendations discussed and voted on by all Conference members during general sessions. The group
conscience of the Fellowship in the United States and Canada was expressed in the following Advisory Actions, which the
General Service Board accepted in its legally required annual meeting following the 2024 Conference.

FLOOR ACTIONS exceed eight pages), be included in the 2025 Final

It was recommended that: Conference Report.
• A pamphlet on the Asian and Asian-American alcoholic • A comprehensive summary of the 2025 General
in A.A. be developed and that a draft or progress report Service Conference Inventory be developed and distrib-
be brought to the 2025 General Service Conference. uted as an electronic version only.

AGENDA ARCHIVES*
It was recommended that: No recommendations.
• The following theme for the 2025 General Service
Conference: “Working Together, Increasing Trust.” COOPERATION WITH THE
PROFESSIONAL COMMUNITY
• The following presentation theme and topics for the
2025 General Service Conference: No recommendations.

» “Delegating: It is okay to ask for help.” CORRECTIONS

» “Closing the Gap: How do we make the voice It was recommended that:
of every Group count?”
• The Singleness of Purpose description in the pamphlet
» “Our Financial Responsibility in carrying “A Message to Correctional Professionals,” which cur-
the message.” rently reads:
• The following workshop topic for the 2025 General “Some professionals refer to alcoholism and drug
Service Conference: “How do we address the new addiction as ‘substance abuse’ or ‘chemical depen-
financial reality facing our spiritual movement?” dency.’ Nonalcoholics are, therefore, sometimes intro-
• The General Service Conference Inventory Plan be duced to A.A. and encouraged to attend A.A. meetings.
approved and that an inventory summary (not to Nonalcoholics may attend open A.A. meetings as

*Members serve on this committee as a secondary committee assignment.

36
 CONTENTS

observers, but only those with a drinking problem may financial affairs are an “open” book. A summary is pub-
attend closed meetings.” lished in each Quarterly Report and a full accounting
Be replaced with the following text: is in the Final Conference Report. These reports are
available at aa.org and at the General Service Office
“Some professionals refer to alcoholics and drug addicts for review at any time.
as a single group when using professional terminology.
Nonalcoholics are, therefore, sometimes introduced *Suggested changes highlighted in black.
to A.A. and encouraged to attend A.A. meetings. • The maximum annual contribution from an individual
Nonalcoholics may attend open A.A. meetings as A.A. member to the General Service Board be increased
observers, but attendance at closed meetings is limited from $5,000 to $7,500.
to persons who have a desire to stop drinking.”
• The video “Carrying the Message Behind these Walls” GRAPEVINE AND LA VIÑA
be discontinued. It was recommended that:
• A pamphlet on the transgender alcoholic in A.A. be • The AA Grapevine Board develop a 5-year financial
developed. The committee requested that a draft pam- plan for La Viña with the goal to reduce shortfalls
phlet or progress report be brought back to the 2025 and increase revenue to be brought back to the 2025
Conference Committee on Corrections. Conference Committee on Grapevine and La Viña.
*Note: As a result of the 2023-2024 Equitable Distribution INTERNATIONAL CONVENTIONS/
of Workload plan, the previous item was on the agenda of REGIONAL FORUMS†
the Conference Committee on Corrections.
It was recommended that:
FINANCE • An anonymity-protected photograph of the flag cere-
It was recommended that: mony be taken at the 2025 International Convention.
• The following change to the language in the pamphlet • An encrypted, delayed anonymity-protected Internet
“Self-Support: Where Money and Spirituality Mix” be video of the 2025 International Convention Opening
implemented: Flag Ceremony be approved and that the video be
placed on appropriate communication channels.
At the bottom of page 9 where it currently reads:
• Providing six options for closing the Big Meetings at
Q: Who manages GSO’s share of your group contribu- an International Convention: The Serenity Prayer,
tions? Responsibility Statement, Declaration of Unity, the
A: The General Service Board’s Finance Committee Third Step Prayer, the Seventh Step Prayer, or a
meets quarterly to review and approve GSO’s budget Moment of Silence.
and the audited financial accounts. • Anonymity-protected video footage with highlights of
The A.A. World Services Board meets monthly and the 2025 International Convention be produced for
maintains direct control of income and expenditures. maintaining archival footage of the Convention, as well
The annual General Service Conference reviews A.A.’s as for sharing the spirit and enthusiasm of the 2025
finances through its own Finance Committee. A.A.’s International Convention.
financial affairs are an “open” book. A summary is pub- • That a delayed, anonymity-protected, digital access
lished in each Quarterly Report and a full accounting stand-alone product offering of the three Big Meetings
is in the Final Conference Report. The account books be created.
themselves are available at the General Service Office
for scrutiny at any time.
LITERATURE
Be revised to read:
It was recommended that:
Q: Who manages GSO’s share of your group contribu-
• The pamphlets “It Happened to Alice” (P-39) and
tions?
“What Happened to Joe” (P-38) be retired.
A: The General Service Board’s Finance Committee
• The draft of the revised pamphlet “A.A. for the Black
meets quarterly to review and approve the financial
and African American Alcoholic” (retitled “Black in
reports of the General Service Board, inc., A.A. World
A.A.: Experience, Strength and Hope”) be approved
Services, Inc., and AA Grapevine, Inc. In addition,
with the following minor editorial changes:
the committee reviews and approves the budgets
two times per year. » Generalize terminology surrounding drug and addic-
tion references.
The A.A. World Services Board meets regularly and
maintains direct control of income and expenditures. » Removal of one story.
The annual General Service Conference reviews A.A.’s » The removal of the political commentary within two
finances through its own Finance Committee. A.A.’s stories.
†Members serve on this committee as a secondary committee assignment.

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 CONTENTS

• The draft manuscript Plain Language Big Book: A Tool • The :60 English language version of the Public Service
for Reading Alcoholics Anonymous be approved with Announcement (PSA) “Since Getting Sober I Have
minor editorial changes to include: Hope” be discontinued.
» Relocation of the “A.A. Steps Table” to constitute an • The :15 English language version of the radio Public
Appendix (on the Twelve Steps) at the back of the Service Announcement (PSA) “We Know How You
new publication. Feel” be discontinued.
» Replace the references to “addiction” and “addicted” • Two Public Service Announcements be distributed on
with language related to alcoholism. broadcast media, tracked and evaluated at a cost of
• The “Too Young?” video adaptation project be perma- $17,000 which would be in addition to the $48,000
nently suspended. that is planned to be spent to track the Value of Donated
airtime on PSAs in 2024 per the audit requirement. The
• The word “donation” be utilized to state that A.A. does
total expenditure should not exceed $65,000 and that
not accept donations from outside entities; and that
the information gathered from the process be brought
the word “contributions” be utilized when referring to
back to the 2025 Conference Committee on Public
Seventh Tradition contributions from A.A. members, in
Information.
AAWS literature as it comes up for reprint.
• The 18 interviews recorded to date as part of Young
POLICY/ADMISSIONS People’s Video Project be approved, giving the General
It was recommended that: Service Office (GSO) the latitude to edit and distribute
the videos in the style of “I Thought Drinking Made
• The Equitable Distribution of Workload (EDW) process Me an Artist (working title)” and “The World Has Color
be adopted and implemented. Now (working title)” The videos can be produced in var-
• The Proposed Agenda Item (PAI) submission date dead- ious formats and made available on our communica-
line for the 2025 General Service Conference be moved tion channel platforms. The committee requested that
to a date no earlier than September 30, 2024. an update report be provided to the 2025 Conference
Committee on Public Information.
Committee recommendations approved by videoconfer-
ence April 9, 2024, at the Pre-General Service Conference • The revised draft of the flyer “A.A. at a Glance” (F-1) be
meeting: approved with minor edits.
• Alice G., who currently serves as the Area 80 Alternate • The revised pamphlet “Speaking at Meetings Outside of
Delegate and has been selected by the Area to replace A.A.” (P-40) be approved.
Lawrence P., serve as a 2024 Conference Member • The flyer “A Message to Teenagers” be retired.
during Conference Week. The Area has communicated
that Lawrence P. will continue to serve as the Area 80 REPORT AND CHARTER
Delegate. It was recommended that:
• Dwayne M. (who is replacing Gerry W. as Area 82 • The section “The (Typical) Area Assembly” in the “Area
Delegate) serve as a 2024 Conference Member. Assembly and its Activities” chapter of The A.A. Service
Manual be amended to add a text reference in addition
PUBLIC INFORMATION to the color reference in order to address readability for
It was recommended that: members that are color blind.
• The :30 English language version of the Public Service • In the draft section “Board’s Custodial Oversight” in the
Announcement (PSA) “Since Getting Sober I Have “The Board’s Operating Corporations” chapter of The
Hope” be discontinued. A.A. Service Manual be amended from:

38
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“To facilitate the board’s custodial oversight, there are following presentation at the 2024 General Service
three corporate mechanisms: electing directors, approv- Conference for disapproval if any:
ing budgets, and authority to make changes to corpo- Class A Trustees† Class B Trustees
rate bylaws. These are used for the primary in the man- Sr. Judith Ann Karam, C.S.A. Cathi C.
agement of the principal assets of the General Service Dawn Klug Charles H.
Board: the trustees’ Finance and Budgetary Committee, Hon. Kerry Meyer Tom H.
the General Service Board Reserve Fund, and the many Al Mooney, M.D., FAAFP, Scott H.
trademarks, copyrights and logos maintained on behalf FASAM Teresa J.
of A.A. as a whole.” Anadora (Andie) Moss Reilly K.
to: Molly Oliver Deborah K.
“To facilitate the board’s custodial oversight, there are Kevin Prior, MBA, CFA, CPA Robert L.
three primary corporate mechanisms to manage the Gail P.
principal assets of the General Service Board: electing Paz P.
directors, approving budgets, and authority to make Marita R.
changes to corporate bylaws.” Joyce S.
• The order of the chapters in The A.A. Service Manual David S.
be amended from: Ken T.
Carolyn W.
Chapter 8: The General Service Board †
Nonalcoholic
Chapter 9: The Board’s Operating Corporations
Chapter 10: The General Service Office • The following slate of officers of the General Service
Chapter 11: A.A. World Services, Inc. Board be elected at the annual meeting of the mem-
Chapter 12: AA Grapevine, Inc. bers of the General Service Board on April 20, 2024,
to: following presentation at the 2024 General Service
Conference for disapproval if any:
Chapter 8: The General Service Board
Chapter 9: The Board’s Operating Corporations Chairperson: Scott H.
Chapter 10: A.A. World Services, Inc. First Vice-Chairperson:** Deborah K.
Chapter 11: AA Grapevine, Inc. Second Vice-Chairperson:** David S.
Chapter 12: The General Service Office Treasurer: Kevin Prior, MBA, CFA, CPA*
Secretary:** Teresa J.
• In Article 9, “The General Service Conference Meetings,” Assistant Treasurer: Paul Konigstein*†
a footnote be added to the Current Conference Charter Assistant Secretary: Racy J.*
with the following text:
*GSO employees
“In 2023 an Advisory Action was passed by the General ** Elected by Third Legacy Procedure
Service Conference outlining a process for polling the †
Nonalcoholic
General Service Conference body between annual
meetings using virtual technology.” • The following slate of directors be elected at the annual
• The items that receive simple majority be included meeting of the members of the A.A. World Services
in the Final Conference Report under the heading Corporate Board on April 20, 2024, following presen-
“Recommendations that achieved Simple Majority – tation at the 2024 General Service Conference for dis-
These items did not receive the two-thirds majority approval if any:
required to pass as a Conference Advisory Action.” Vera F. Ken T.
Racy J.* Carolyn W.
TREATMENT AND ACCESSIBILITIES Reilly K. John W.
It was recommended that: Deborah K. Bob W.*
• The draft pamphlet “Bridging the Gap” (P-49) be Clinton M.
approved with minor editorial revisions. *GSO employees

• The flyer “Where Do I Go from Here?” (F-4) be updated • The following slate of directors be elected at the
with current inclusive language and information on annual meeting of the members of the AA Grapevine
how to find A.A. both in person and online. The com- Corporate Board on April 20, 2024, following presenta-
mittee requested that a progress report or draft flyer be tion at the 2024 General Service Conference for disap-
brought back to the 2025 Conference Committee on proval if any:
Treatment and Accessibilities. Teddy B-W. Molly Oliver†
Morgan B. Paz P.
TRUSTEES
Chris C.* Joyce S.
It was recommended that: Teresa J. David S.
• The following slate of trustees of the General Service Nikki O.
Board be elected at the annual meeting of the mem- *AA Grapevine employee
bers of the General Service Board on April 20, 2024, †
Nonalcoholic

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■ Committee Considerations
An Advisory Action of the 1990 General Service Conference states: “Items discussed, but no action taken or recommendation
made, as well as committee recommendations which are not adopted, be included in a separate section of the Final Report.”
Listed by committee, such items are included here “in their entirety” per Advisory Action of the 2019 General Service Conference.

AGENDA mented by the trustees’ General Service Conference

Committee Considerations: Committee and appreciated the thoughtful and thor-
• The committee discussed the printing and distribution ough cost saving measures to the Conference budget.
of a comprehensive summary of the 2025 Conference • The committee also discussed Area Service Highlights
Inventory and noted that the cost estimates for printing presentations during the Conference week. The com-
and shipping could change in the next year. The com- mittee felt that these presentations about service areas
mittee suggested that a plan to print and distribute the could provide Conference Members with an opportuni-
comprehensive summary of the 2025 General Service ty to learn how local committees carry the A.A. mes-
Conference Inventory be brought back to the 2026 sage, foster participation, and overcome challenges.
Conference Committee on Agenda. The committee also noted that conducting Conference
• The committee reviewed the 2023 Conference evalua- business can encompass sometimes harsh experiences
tion summary noting the new streamlined format that while Conference Members reach a group conscience
included a list of proposed improvements with a list of on Committee recommendations and felt that Area
cost savings. The committee noted several improve- Service Highlights can provide balance. The committee
ments were being made at the 74th General Service also noted the priority of completing Conference busi-
Conference. The committee looks forward to reviewing ness in a timely manner and suggested that including
the 2024 evaluation summary at the 2025 General Area Service Highlights in the Conference Manual could
Service Conference. provide other Conference Members with opportunities
• The committee reviewed the 2023 evaluation ques- to make notes and be informed about other service
tionnaire that includes opportunities for Conference areas.
Members to share feedback about the changes imple- • The committee discussed a Saturday evening meet-
mented to the 2024 Conference Week Schedule, and to and-greet gathering of Conference Members and the
weigh in on proposed future changes. Sunday night A.A. Banquet that includes a plated
• The committee discussed the improvements to the dinner. While the committee appreciates the prudent
schedule of the 2024 General Service Conference imple- review of the Conference budget, the committee

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requested that the trustees’ General Service Conference sistent materials, which is troubling. The committee
Committee continue with these pre-Conference gather- discussed ways that could help clarify and support
ings. The committee felt that including these pre-Con- accurate information and felt that the three Board
ference events provide Conference Members with uni- chairpersons could explore aligning their efforts to
fying, welcoming, and cohesive experiences that help share information within the Fellowship.
usher in the Conference Week.
• The committee also noted that meal stipends could ARCHIVES
provide Conference Members with opportunities to
Committee Considerations:
spend some quiet time during a busy Conference
week schedule. The committee requested the trustees’ • The committee discussed the recent update to the
General Service Conference Committee consider ways Archives video Markings on the Journey and accept-
to add 2-3 additional meal stipends for Conference ed the verbal report on the status of the video by
Members. Gospelizing Director. The committee requested that the
AAWS Board continue to explore all means of delivery
• The committee discussed opportunities to give more and distribution of the video, not to be limited to DVD,
time to complete Conference business and felt that Flash Drive, or downloadable digital file on the AAWS
reinforcing the mechanics of the Conference agreed to Online Bookstore.
by Conference Members would be useful.
• The committee reviewed the newly revised Archives
• The committee discussed the value of Workshops
Workbook and made the following suggestions for
during the Conference week and noted that local com-
inclusion in a future printing:
mittees conduct workshops based on these topics and
provide opportunities to inform delegates with a broad » Add appropriate images to enhance the content,
range of experiences. where applicable, as determined by the GSO Archives
Department.
• The committee discussed the number of videoconfer-
ence meetings that occur within service areas, regions, » In the section “What to Collect?” add reference to dig-
and for Conference Members. The committee felt that ital materials in the suggested list of materials local
some local events share misinformation, or incon- archives might consider collecting.

COOPERATION WITH
THE PROFESSIONAL COMMUNITY
Committee Considerations:
• The committee reviewed a progress report on the
development of an outward facing pamphlet for men-
tal health professionals and noted the continued
work moving forward toward the production of the
pamphlet. The committee requested that a progress
report or draft pamphlet be brought back to the
2025 Conference Committee on Cooperation with the
Professional Community.
• The committee suggested the trustees’ Cooperation with
the Professional Community/Treatment-Accessibilities
Committee (TCPC/TA) consider developing additional
service materials as follows:
» A “hard copy” service piece for local Cooperation
with the Professional Community (CPC) committees
to provide to professionals in their face-to-face con-
tact and when exhibiting or presenting at profession-
al events.
» That the service piece includes newly designed info-
graphics gleaned from existing content in the draft
pamphlet for mental health professionals.
» That the service piece also includes a way to link to
material for the mental health professional, such as
the content of interviews already conducted and con-
tent from the draft pamphlet.
» That the presentation of materials developed reflects
a modern look and feel appealing to professionals.

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The committee requested that a progress report on • The committee reviewed the progress report on the
the development of the service piece be brought to the LinkedIn page and received a verbal update from the
2025 Conference Committee on Cooperation with the Communication Services Department. The committee
Professional Community. noted the formatting and content to include informing
• The committee discussed the impact of the professionals in three languages within the limitations
Comprehensive Media Plan (CMP) in carrying the mes- of the platform and best practices for posting to social
sage to the professional community and provided the media. The committee requested that a progress report
following suggestions to be forwarded to the trustees’ be brought back to the 2025 Conference Committee on
Public Information Committee regarding the CMP: Cooperation with the Professional Community.
» That the Conference Committee on Cooperation with
the Professional Community contribute annual input CORRECTIONS
to the revision of the CMP and collaborate with the
Committee Considerations:
Trustees’ Public Information Committee for effective
use of technology in how we reach professionals • The committee reviewed the Corrections Kit and
using current industry standards and adapting to Workbook. The committee noted that the sugges-
new and emerging technologies including, but not tions made by the 2023 Conference Committee on
limited to: Corrections had been included in the Workbook and
provided an additional editorial update for the Contents
 QR codes of Corrections Committee Kit List.
 Infographics
• The committee requested that the staff coordinator on
 Templates for CPC outreach to professionals
the corrections desk gather shared experience on how
 Audio local corrections committees encourage and engage
 Podcast features members in corrections service. The collected shared
 And additional media experience would be available upon request from the
• The committee considered the request to develop corrections desk.
a pamphlet for the unhoused alcoholic in A.A. and • The committee suggested that AA Grapevine consider
took no action. The committee felt that a pamphlet including shared experiences on how to encourage and
would not be an effective tool to carry the message to engage A.A. members in Corrections service within
the unhoused community. The committee suggested their July prison issue.
that the trustees’ Cooperation with the Professional
Community/Treatment-Accessibilities Committee con-
sider exploring methods of how to better serve the FINANCE
unhoused population. Committee Considerations:
• The committee reviewed the content and format of • The committee reviewed the video “Hope: Alcoholics
the Cooperation with the Professional Community Anonymous” for effectiveness and relevance and took
(CPC) Kit and Workbook and noted the updates that no action. The committee agreed that the information
were suggested by the 2023 Conference Committee in the video is still relevant, and the video is still useful.
on Cooperation with the Professional Community. The The committee also agreed that it wouldn’t be prudent
committee provided suggestions for updates to be to update the video at this time. *
included in the next printing of the Workbook; minor • The committee reviewed the progress report reflecting
formatting updates to the list of the Kit contents, and shared experience from the Fellowship on possible
recently updated CPC service material in the Kit. Minor future changes to literature written by A.A.’s founders
editorial changes to CPC materials are to be forwarded and took no action. After thorough consideration
to Publishing. and mindful reflection of the comments received
• The committee suggested considering CPC pamphlets from Founders’ Writings sharing sessions, as well as
as topics for podcasts or other formats to aid local com- the valuable input received from the Fellowship via
mittees in their service work. Area Delegates, the committee agreed that current
Conference procedures provide a process wherein
• The committee reviewed the three existing Cooperation
future proposals for changes can be considered by the
with the Professional Community videos for profes-
group conscience of each Conference, negating the
sionals available on aa.org and requested that the trust-
need for a mandated policy.†
ees’ Cooperation with the Professional Community/
Treatment and Accessibilities Committee explore the †Carryover from a previous EDW plan
option of repurposing the videos, including updating *2024 EDW distribution
the scripts with new voiceovers while also using stock • The committee discussed a request that the General
footage and images to replace outdated video/images. Service Board develop supplemental financial report-
The committee requested that a progress report be ing focused on the actual costs of the various service
brought back to the 2025 Conference Committee on items we provide. The committee requested that the
Cooperation with the Professional Community. Trustees’ Finance and Budgetary Committee produce

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an initial draft of the supplemental financial reporting new pamphlet at this time, the committee suggested
based on projects and that a draft be brought back to that the need expressed in this agenda item may be
the Conference Committee on Finance for review at addressed in other AAWS and AA Grapevine publica-
the 75th General Service Conference. The committee tions instead.
requested that: Note: As a result of the 2021-22 Equitable Distribution
» The draft include reporting on the following service of Workload plan, the above item was on the agenda of
items: the Conference Committee on Grapevine and La Viña.
 Development of certain new literature titles. • The committee reviewed the AA Grapevine Workbook
 Cost of capital projects such as software, app, and and provided some editorial suggestions.
website development. • The committee agreed to forward to the AA Grapevine
 Maintenance cost of software, apps, and website. Board the suggestion that AA Grapevine, Inc. produce
 International services. in the year 2025 or later:
» The frequency of reporting is suggested to be quarter- 1. Sober Holiday Stories (working title)
ly and be included in quarterly reports. A helpful book where members share about the joys
» The level of detail reported should include: and challenges of staying sober through the many
 Revenue numbers for items we sell (and identify holidays of the year.
“no cost” items, perhaps providing separate sec- 2. Dating & Relationships (working title)
tions for priced items vs. “no cost” items). Also, Members share stories about learning how to date
include reporting on any draws from the reserve in sobriety and/or how their relationships have
fund for any item. changed since they’ve been in A.A. awhile.
 All long-term costs such as server fees, develop- 3. Lo Mejor de La Viña III (Best of LV III) (working title)
ment costs as platforms evolve, and ongoing con- (La Viña book)
tent creation such as podcasts, apps, Instagram
accounts, etc. The stories demonstrate the various ways members
get active in A.A. to stay sober, carry the message
» Additionally, if any project under development is and live useful and rewarding sober lives.
included as a Conference agenda item, then the rel-
evant parts of the new financial reporting would be 4. En las prisiones (Jails and institutions) (working title)
included as background for the item. (La Viña book)
Stories by sober Hispanic members who have expe-
rienced A.A. in prison and are helping one another
GRAPEVINE AND LA VIÑA and carrying the message.
Committee Considerations:
5. La derrota (Surrender) (working title) (La Viña book)
• The committee requested that the Grapevine Board
A.A. members share what helped them get sober,
develop a plan for a more effective La Viña subscription
surrender and handle their new lives of recovery.
procedure, fulfillment process and customer service
experience and that a progress report be brought back
to the 2025 Conference Committee on Grapevine and INTERNATIONAL CONVENTIONS/
La Viña. REGIONAL FORUMS
• The committee requested that the Grapevine Board Committee Considerations:
develop a Grapevine and La Viña financial reporting • The committee discussed a report concerning virtual
system that is clearer and easier to understand for the programming for the 2025 International Convention.
Fellowship. The committee agrees with including a two-day 8
session virtual track in the program. The committee
• The committee explored the services provided by AA
believes that the $35.00 (USD) per attendee fee for the
Grapevine and how they should be funded and took
programmed virtual session track is prudent and pro-
no action. The committee felt they needed feedback
vides a desired accessibility for members who may not
from the Fellowship and requested that the Grapevine
be able to attend the convention in person. The com-
Board conduct a survey to the membership to identify
mittee made the following suggestions to the trustees’
relevance, usefulness and financial viability of products
International Convention Regional Forums Committee
and services provided by the AA Grapevine, such as
related to the two-day 8 session virtual program track:
Podcast, Instagram and YouTube, with a report to be
brought back to the 2026 Conference Committee on » That there be virtual hospitality suite.
Grapevine and La Viña. » That virtual technology support be provided.
• The committee considered a request to develop a • The committee requested that the trustees’ International
pamphlet on the Asian and Asian-American alcoholic Convention and Regional Forums Committee explore
in A.A. and took no action. Because of the anticipat- ideas to develop a new declaration to be adopted at
ed cost and workload associated with developing a the 2030 International Convention. The concept is to

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» That the General Service Board consider adding the

use of current technology including streaming, virtual
and/or hybrid components to the Regional Forum;
and the possibility of using local A.A. resources.
» Consider adding an additional full virtual forum.

LITERATURE
Committee Considerations:
• The committee reviewed a progress report on revi-
sions to the pamphlet, “The Twelve Steps Illustrated.”
The committee requested that a new draft, partial
draft, or progress report be brought back to the 2025
Conference Committee on Literature. The committee
discussed post-Conference follow-up processes at
the General Service Office. The committee noted the
value of communication memos for clarity and pro-
cess transparency.
• The committee reviewed a progress report on revisions
to the pamphlet “A.A. for the Native North American.”
The committee noted that the introduction section has
been drafted and that outreach efforts have been effi-
cient, effective, and resulted in an increased number
of story submissions. The committee requested that a
draft or progress report be brought back to the 2025
Conference Committee on Literature.
• The committee reviewed a progress report on the devel-
opment of the Fourth Edition of the book Alcohólicos
Anónimos – Spanish. The committee noted that the
review the history of The Responsibility Statement or story submissions reflect a broad and diverse cross-sec-
the “I Am Responsible” Declaration that was intro- tion of the A.A. Fellowship, reflecting each of A.A.’s
duced at the 1965 International Convention in Toronto. Three Legacies. The committee requested that a draft
In addition to the history of the “Unity” declaration that manuscript or progress report be brought back to the
was introduced at A.A.’s 35th Anniversary International 2025 Conference Committee on Literature.
Convention held in Miami Beach, Florida in July 1970. • In addition to recommending permanent suspension
The committee looks forward to a progress report of the “Too Young?” video adaptation, the committee
being brought back to the 2025 Conference Committee noted the potential value provided by other projects
on International Convention and Regional Forums. currently in development such as the “Young Peoples’
• The committee discussed ways of encouraging interest Video Project” which address similarly stated needs.
and participation in Regional Forums and made the • The committee reviewed a progress report on revi-
following suggestions: sions to the pamphlet “Questions and Answers on
» Continue to announce Regional Forums at all local Sponsorship.” The committee noted that much of
A.A. events within the Region. the work was outside of the scope of the committee
consideration from the 2023 Conference Committee
» That the staff coordinator on the regional forum on Treatment/Accessibilities. The committee requested
assignment communicate with the Area Contact and that the work going forward reflect the 2023 Treatment
Volunteer Committee earlier in the Regional Forum and Accessibilities suggestion to “consider updating the
planning process. pamphlet ‘Questions and Answers on Sponsorship’ to
» That the staff coordinator on the regional forum add language on working with alcoholics with intellec-
assignment continues to disseminate Regional tual or information processing challenges, communica-
Forum information early and often using all modes tion challenges and diverse neurological abilities.” The
of communication including email, aa.org website, committee requested that a progress report or draft
Meeting Guide App., Box 4-5-9, and AA Grapevine pamphlet be brought back to the 2025 Conference
and La Viña. Committee on Literature.
» Consider creating short current anonymity protected • The committee reviewed the 2024 Recovery Literature
videos about Regional Forums that can be shared on Matrix and noted the need for procedural guidance
our communication channels. through rotation memos and a reference to the informa-

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tion provided within the “AAWS Policy on Publication: » Some Committee literature on recovery or more
Keeping A.A. Literature Current.” The committee general topics of service could be moved under
requested that a footnote be added to the Literature the purview of committees which historically have
Matrix referencing the value of this policy as a resource. agendas with less items. Some Conference-approved
• The committee requested that the list of formatting items that don’t set policy but rather, reflect factual
information might be moved to service material, to
priorities, as established by A.A. World Services, Inc.
allow for more timely updates.
Publishing Department, be included within future
Recovery Literature Matrixes. » Providing Conference committees a clear under-
standing and list of all items within their scope and
• The committee requested that A.A. World Services, Inc. purview. (Example: A committee that has an agenda
consider developing guidelines relative to style and for- item of “Review Kit and Workbook” does not neces-
mat to provide greater consistency of appearance and sarily have less “work” to do but rather an opportu-
presentation between individual pieces of Conference- nity to do a more thorough review of the pamphlets
approved literature. and service material under their purview within the
• The committee discussed Reflexiones Diarias, the contents of the kit, that can often unintentionally get
Spanish translation of the Daily Reflections book. The neglected and become increasingly dated when a
committee suggested that AAWS consider providing committee’s agenda becomes lengthier.)
Reflexiones Diarias in a large-print format. » That the function and purpose of Equitable
• The committee reviewed a progress report on the Distribution of Workload (EDW) be more centered on
development of the Fifth Edition of the book Alcoholics lessening the workloads of committees that may not
Anonymous. The committee looks forward to a prog- have ample time to complete their work rather than
ress report or draft manuscript to be brought back to focusing on adding to agendas to lengthen the work.
the 2025 Conference Committee on Literature. » Adding additional Conference Committees or sec-
• The committee reviewed a progress report on the video ondary Conference committees.
animation of the pamphlet “The Twelve Concepts » The Conference Agenda Routing (CAR) form may be
Illustrated.” The committee requested that the project pro- an unnecessary internal reporting mechanism for the
ceed with Phase II Option I to include translation of nar- General Service Office and a simpler method of doc-
ration voiceover and visual text into French and Spanish. umenting Proposed Agenda Item (PAI) review might
be considered.
POLICY/ADMISSIONS » An adjustment to the Conference schedule to allow
Committee Considerations: for more committee time to handle additional work-
load, in lieu of presentations and workshops.
• The committee met February 8, 2024, to consider a
request from the trustees’ General Service Conference • The committee also discussed the need for updated
Committee and General Service Board that a trustee language to the current Proposed Agenda Item (PAI)
of the Great Britain General Service Board, Joanna Faul form and provided the following suggestions:
and the Great Britain General Service Office General » Include clarifying language that PAI submissions
Secretary, Ranjan Bhattacharyya, be approved to attend received past the deadline would not be considered
the 2024 U.S./Canada General Service Conference as for the upcoming General Service Conference (GSC)
observers. The committee agreed to grant admission but would be considered for the following year.
which is in keeping within the scope of the committee, » The note provided in section 3 of the form, also be
per the 2022 Policy/Admission Advisory Action. included at the top of the form in bold font.
• Regarding the Equitable Distribution of Workload » Under section 3 add a question, “If this item is being
(EDW) process, the committee requested that the trust- submitted by an individual, was the item forwarded
ees’ Committee on the General Service Conference and to another level of group conscience and if it was not
Conference Coordinator develop a finalized operational considered, please provide an explanation.”
procedure and implementation plan. The committee (Note: This section could use a “check box” system for
requested that a progress update be brought to the Area, District, group, individual, or other.)
2025 Conference Committee on Policy/Admissions on
If the “individual” or “other” box is selected, then
the finalized EDW implementation.
the submitter would be asked to provide additional
• The committee suggested that the trustees’ Committee information as to why. This question would have
on the General Service Conference create a proposal an asterisk and would be required to be answered
providing simpler methods of balancing conference before submission.
workload which might include, but not limited to, the • The committee reviewed the GSO General Manager’s
following suggestions: memo regarding General Service Conference site selec-
» Reimagining current Conference committees in ways tion. The committee asked that the General Manager
that could accommodate heavier workloads. provide a progress report regarding site selection for

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the 77th and 78th General Service Conferences as soon to the trustees’ Conference Committee with sugges-
as they are finalized. tions for content in the guideline.
• The committee reviewed the dates for the 2028
General Service Conference. In order to provide addi- PUBLIC INFORMATION
tional flexibility to the General Service Office man- Committee Considerations:
agement in contracting the most cost-effective and • The committee reviewed the memo from the General
appropriate venues for the General Service Conference, Service Office Chief Financial Officer related to tracking
the committee agreed to select these proposed dates Public Service Announcements. In addition, the com-
for the 78th General Service Conference, as follows mittee reviewed background addendum on both distri-
(in order of preference): April 23-29, 2028; May 7-13, bution and tracking of TV PSAs, noting that $48,000 to
2028; April 2-8, 2028. The committee noted that these track PSAs has been accepted as an audit requirement.
proposed Conference dates are the best choices avail- The committee requested that this expense be allocat-
able for avoiding conflicts with significant holidays. ed to the trustees’ Finance and Budgetary Committee
The committee asked that all Conference members be budget. The committee suggested that for the track-
notified of the final dates for the 77th and 78th General ing of PSAs more cost-effective means of tracking be
Service Conference as soon as they are finalized by researched.
GSO management.
• The committee reviewed and accepted a progress
• The committee reviewed the “Report of the GSB Ad report on the development of a General Service Office
Hoc Committee on Participation of Online Groups podcast. The committee noted the planning, develop-
(POG) in the U.S./Canada Service Structure” and had a ment, and production of episodes on many service-re-
wide-ranging discussion. lated discussion topics and looks forward to a progress
The committee expressed appreciation for the Ad Hoc report with analytics data on the first season of this
report, particularly the results of the survey to online audio service material to be brought back to the 2025
groups. Based upon the Ad Hoc report findings, the Conference Committee on Public Information.
committee noted that at this time there are no clearly • The committee reviewed and accepted the 2023
expressed needs outlined in order to move forward with Report on the Alcoholics Anonymous World Services,
the creation of an additional delegate area for online Inc. Meeting Guide app. The committee offered the fol-
groups. The committee noted that the suggestion of a lowing suggestions and looks forward to a report to be
future guideline service piece on the participation of brought to the 2025 Conference Committee on Public
online groups may be a helpful resource to consider for Information:
the future as information continues to be shared and
» Consider a suggestion to add A.A. literature to the
gathered from the U.S./Canada service structure.
Meeting Guide app.
• The Committee discussed a suggestion to revise proce- » Consider creating a mechanism for listing online
dures for electing the delegate chairperson, Conference meetings on the Meeting Guide app without tying
Committee chairpersons and their alternates and took them to particular locations.
no action. The committee noted that the timing of the » Consider adding a clarification to the location infor-
election at the close of the final committee meeting as mation on the Meeting Guide app to specify that loca-
well as the process for electing Conference committee tions (like churches) do not imply affiliation.
chairs is an effective voting procedure.
» Consider adding an option to make Seventh Tradition
The committee also noted that while the process for contributions possible through the Meeting Guide app.
electing the General Service Conference Delegate
chair from the remaining delegates (not yet selected • The committee reviewed and accepted the 2023
for Committee or alt chair) remains a viable proce- Reports on aa.org. The committee made the follow-
dure, a more effective, improved, communication ing suggestions and looks forward to a report being
would be useful in outlining the current roles and brought back to the 2025 Conference Committee on
responsibilities. Public Information.
There was consensus by the committee that all Area » The committee suggested that the trustees’ Public
Delegates have been chosen by their areas as qual- Information Committee explore adding chat func-
ified and ready to serve in many capacities at the tionality to the aa.org website, noting that the General
Conference. While some delegates may choose not Service Offices of Australia and Great Britain have
to be included in the election, any qualifying delegate already adopted this feature on their websites.
who wants to be considered be allowed to submit their » The committee suggested that the trustees’ Public
name. The committee suggested that the trustees’ Information Committee explore adding meeting
Conference committee develop a guideline “For the information feature to aa.org by connecting to the
Role and Responsibilities of Delegate Chair” that could local feeds that populate Meeting Guide.
be included in the Conference manual and be read • The committee reviewed and accepted the 2023 annu-
prior to the election at the delegate’s only meeting. The al report from the AA Grapevine and La Viña website,
committee asked that the Staff secretary send a memo marketing, podcast and app, noting appreciation for

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the continued growth of the podcast and expressed » That findings from the questionnaire on social media
support for the AA Grapevine app. The committee and anonymity be incorporated into the pending
made the following suggestions: social media policy.
» The committee suggested that future AA Grapevine » That future surveys of this type be shared more
reports include more detailed analytics on their com- broadly with the Fellowship understanding that large-
munication channels. scale requests for sharing from the Fellowship may
» The committee requested the opportunity to review incur additional expense.
the AA Grapevine Five Year plan. • The committee reviewed the progress report on the
» The committee offered suggestions for the AA A.A. Membership Survey Convenience Sample Pilot
Grapevine App and Podcast and suggested that the and looks forward to a report being brought back to the
staff secretary forward these to the AA Grapevine 2025 Conference Committee on Public Information.
Publisher. The committee requested that staff provide more clear
• The committee reviewed and accepted the 2023 and timely communications about Membership Survey
Analytics Working Group Report and noted all the work processes that impact delegates and their areas.
that had gone into laying out a framework for improv- • The committee reviewed and accepted the 2024 Public
ing analytics reporting in the future and looks forward Information Comprehensive Media Plan (CMP). The
to a report to be brought to the 2025 Conference committee expressed continued support for this ver-
Committee on Public Information. sion of the CMP, but noted that when a major re-write
• The committee discussed the revised proposal for is completed, a coversheet outlining the changes would
Alcoholics Anonymous World Services, Inc. to establish be useful. The committee expressed appreciation that
an Instagram account and took no action, noting that a the plan details useful guardrails and captures the
social media policy should be established before addi- public information work, messaging, and communi-
tional social media platforms are added. cation channels the General Service Office and AA
Grapevine are using to make the Fellowship, general
• The committee suggested that efforts to collect public, media, and professionals aware of Alcoholics
user-generated Young People videos be permanently Anonymous.
suspended and that the web page and portal for these
submissions be taken down. The committee offered the following suggestions for
the next iteration of the Comprehensive Media Plan to
• The committee requested that consideration be given be brought back to the 2025 Conference Committee on
to adding a QR code to the flyer “A.A. at a Glance” (F-1). Public Information.
• The committee suggested that consideration be given » That continued review of the Comprehensive Media
to adding a QR code to the pamphlet “Speaking at Plan focus on ensuring that each section focuses
Meetings Outside of A.A.” (P-40). on strategic goal setting versus facts or operational
• The committee suggested that the staff secretary ask processes.
that delegates gather feedback on how young people » That the trustees’ committee consider adding
would like to be communicated with and submit the Alcoholics Anonymous World Services Inc. brand
shared experience back to the staff secretary before guidelines to the Comprehensive Media Plan.
October 1, 2024, using an online survey tool. The com- » That developing guidelines for using the
mittee requested that a report be brought back to the Comprehensive Media Plan in other parts of the ser-
2025 Conference Committee on Public Information. vice structure would be useful.
• The committee reviewed and accepted the progress » That consideration be given to adding a list of
report on the request to create a new form of com- the PSAs and when they were approved to the
munication to address anonymity on social media Comprehensive Media Plan.
and understands that responses to questionnaire were
» That a more robust analytics section would be a use-
collected during a one-month period in March and
ful addition to the Comprehensive Media Plan.
April 2024. The committee looks forward to a prog-
ress report to be brought to the 2025 Conference » That trustees’ Public Information collaborate with
Committee on Public Information and offered the fol- any other trustees’ committee that has responsibil-
lowing suggestions: ity for content areas detailed in the Comprehensive
» That future surveys have fewer questions and that Media Plan and identify ways for the correspond-
efforts be made to communicate clearly with del- ing conference committees to collaborate with one
egates about future requests for sharing from the another on the relevant sections of the CMP.
Fellowship. » That consideration be given to accepting user generated
» That future staff reports to the Conference Committee content from members who are under the age of 18.
on Public Information include information about • The committee suggested that once a social media poli-
anonymity and social media work by the Public cy is completed, a section about the social media policy
Information Desk. be added to the Comprehensive Media Plan.

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• The committee reviewed the 2023 report on the platforms and noted that while the information it con-
“Relevance and Usefulness of Video Public Service tained is useful, questioned whether the currently avail-
Announcements.” Committee members noted that the able Public Service Announcements would be effective
membership survey seems to indicate that members on streaming platforms.
are not finding A.A. through the media. The committee
• The committee suggested that before Public Service
expressed general criticism about the tone and com-
Announcements are placed on streaming media, meth-
munication style of the current PSAs.
ods for measuring their impact should be established.
• The committee suggested that the annual report on
• The committee suggested that trustees’ Committee
“Relevance and Usefulness of Video Public Service
Public Information create two plans for placing PSAs
Announcements” be revised to more clearly articulate
on streaming media with a focus on reaching a gener-
the process for suggesting changes or retirement of
any PSAs. al audience with budgets not to exceed $50,000 and
$100,000. The committee suggested that the trustees’
• The committee requested that any suggestions to retire Committee on Public Information keep in mind A.A.’s
Public Service Announcements be communicated as Twelve Traditions in developing this plan.
agenda items.
• The committee discussed the progress report on the
The committee suggested that the trustees’ Public Mesmerize Point Public Service Announcement (PSA)
Information Committee reimagine the overall strategy distribution channel and was pleased to see the ongo-
for Public Service Announcements (PSAs) and offered ing opportunity to reach a large audience at no cost.
the following suggestions: The committee suggested that the trustees’ Public
» Noting the challenge of balancing budget constraints Information Committee renew the annual contract
and the need to update our PSAs, that the trustees’ with Mesmerize Point for the 2024-25 year, providing
PI Committee consider less expensive methods of it could be done so at no cost. The committee suggest-
creating and modifying content. ed that the trustees’ PI Committee research whether
» That shorter PSAs are more useful (:60 is too long). there are opportunities like Mesmerize Point available
» The committee suggested that consideration be given in Canada.
to working with Australia’s service structure to use The committee expressed support for requesting more
the Australian Public Service Announcements in the data about the impact and reach the PSAs have
U.S. and Canada. through Mesmerize Point. The committee looks for-
• The committee also suggested that the staff secretary ward to a report to be brought to the 2025 Conference
continue to encourage local Public Information com- Committee on Public Information.
mittees to distribute Public Service Announcements • The committee expressed support for adding QR codes
(PSAs) in their local areas. to our Public Service Announcements (PSAs) as soon
• The committee accepted the Progress Report on the as possible and requested that the Communication
Feasibility of Paid Placement of PSAs on streaming Services Department provide estimates for the cost of

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doing so and suggested the work be done if it could be » That Online Business Profiles cross link with other
completed for less than $5,000. sites managed by AAWS.
• The committee reviewed and accepted the 2023 » That in responding to Online Business Profiles con-
Report on the Alcoholics Anonymous World Services sideration be given to the principle of attraction.
YouTube account. • The committee discussed the content and format of
The committee noted that the PSA playlist on Alcoholics the Public Information Kit and Workbook and noted
Anonymous World Services (AAWS) YouTube page only contents of the kit are useful to local Public Information
includes two videos, suggesting that the tool would be Committees.
more useful if all PSAs were included in the playlist. • Noting that a Public Information Workbook revision
• The committee offered the following suggestions is underway, the committee agreed to provide with
regarding the AAWS YouTube page and looks forward emailed suggestions for the Workbook to the staff sec-
to a report to be brought to the 2025 Conference retary
Committee on Public Information.
» The committee suggested that the trustees’ Public REPORT AND CHARTER
Information Committee consider organizing the Committee Considerations:
YouTube page more effectively.
• The committee reviewed a list of editorial updates from
» The committee pointed out that the YouTube page the Publishing Department for The A.A. Service Manual/
is not intuitive to navigate and suggested that efforts Twelve Concepts for World Service and accepted the
be made to change how translations of videos get updates.
displayed.
• The committee accepted a report from the Publishing
» Noting the Search Engine Optimization (SEO) chal- Department outlining the General Service Office pro-
lenges, the committee reported that a search of cess for timely and accurate preparation and publica-
YouTube using keywords like AA or Alcoholics tion of the proposed The A.A. Service Manual/Twelve
Anonymous did not bring users to the AAWS page Concepts for World Service, 2024-2026 Edition and the
and suggested that additional work on SEO be con- 2024 General Service Conference Final Report.
sidered.
• The committee discussed the current process for
» For future reporting to this committee, the com-
reviewing substantial updates to The A.A. Service
mittee requested that trustees’ Public Information
Manual/Twelve Concepts for World Service and agreed
Committee consider tracking the impact of outreach
that it lacks cohesiveness and accountability. The com-
efforts (for instance an email blast) and whether
mittee expressed their concerns to the Board chairs
those efforts impact the traffic on YouTube.
and General Manager and suggest that the General
» The committee questioned whether YouTube and Service Board explore the creation of a corresponding
Vimeo are both needed. Trustees’ committee for Report and Charter comprised
• The committee reviewed and accepted the 2023 of members of all three boards and the General Service
Report on Google Ads. The committee noted appreci- Office and that a progress report be brought back to the
ation for the formatting of the report and made the 2025 Conference Committee on Report and Charter.
following suggestions: • The committee underwent a multi-year process of
» That efforts should be made to maximize our use of assessing the accuracy and effectiveness of the rede-
the Google Ad grant each month. signed 2021-2023 edition of The A.A. Service Manual/
» That staff continue to look at whether search terms Twelve Concepts for World Service. While further func-
(like aa.org) used with Google ad groups are the best tional clarity is needed, in order to prevent a further
use of the Google Ad Grant program. The committee delay in printing, a significant number of revisions
looks forward to a report to be brought to the 2025 were identified and corrected. The committee requests
Conference Committee on Public Information. that the General Service Board assign a dedicated trust-
ee liaison to the Report and Charter conference com-
The committee reviewed and accepted the 2023 mittee to ensure the accurate implementation of those
Report on Online Business Profiles (OBP). The com- revisions to the 2024-2026 The A.A. Service Manual/
mittee offered the following suggestions for Online Twelve Concepts for World Service for printing in 2024.
Business Profiles and looks forward to a report to
be brought to the 2025 Conference Committee on • The committee reviewed the draft of the new section
Public Information. “Amendments” to be added to the Twelve Concepts
for World Service. The committee agreed that a full
» That Online Business Profile analytics reporting be reexamination is needed to achieve the intent of this
more consistent with quarterly reporting of activity section, to be of benefit to the Fellowship as a clear
per quarter. source of reference. The committee requests that the
» That Online Business Profile responses be provided General Service Board review the draft along with the
as background each year. committee’s feedback and provide an updated draft or

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progress report to the 2025 Conference Committee on potential distribution among professionals and inclu-
Report and Charter. sion on the A.A. LinkedIn page. The committee also
• The committee noted that there may be policy impli- asked the staff coordinator on the Accessibilities desk
cations associated with Simple Majority items and to share the list periodically in activity updates.
suggested this question be referred to the Conference The committee requested that a progress report be
Committee on Policy and Admissions for further con- brought back to the 2025 committee on how useful this
sideration. list has been to local accessibilities committees.
• The committee reviewed the pamphlet “A.A. in
TREATMENT AND ACCESSIBILITIES Treatment Settings” (P-27) and recognized its contin-
ued effectiveness and relevance. The committee sug-
Committee Considerations: gested that the Publishing department update the cover
• The committee reviewed and accepted the progress of the pamphlet and add current information on how
report on the Military Outreach Project noting the to contact A.A.
importance of adding interviews with A.A. mem-
• The committee reviewed the Remote Communities
bers who are veterans. The committee forwarded
and Cooperation with Elder Community resource lists
to the trustees’ Cooperation with the Professional
and forwarded several suggestions to be added to the
Community/Treatment and Accessibilities Committee
lists to the trustees’ CPC/Treatment and Accessibilities
the following suggestions:
Committee.
» Focus on creating a landing page for the military
• The committee reviewed the progress report on updat-
audio interviews on the General Service Office’s web-
ing A.A. service material to better carry the message to
site www.aa.org.
alcoholics with intellectual or information-processing
» Prioritize an interview with a Canadian Francophone challenges, communication challenges and diverse
A.A. member in the military. neurological abilities and noted that much of the service
» Include the military audio interviews on A.A.’s material is not relevant to the subject. The committee
YouTube page using a simple image. asked the staff coordinator on the Accessibilities desk
The committee requested that a progress report on to follow up on the 2023 General Service Conference
the Military Outreach Project be brought back to considerations related to the revisions to the pamphlet
the 2025 Conference Committee on Treatment and “Questions and Answers on Sponsorship” and the
Accessibilities. publication of an issue of AA Grapevine magazine with
stories from neurodiverse alcoholics.
• The committee requested that the staff coordinator on
the Accessibilities desk solicit current shared experi- The committee forwarded a list of service material that
ence from the Fellowship on outreach efforts to Veteran could be updated to the trustees’ CPC/Treatment and
Affairs (VA) and active military in the U.S. and Canada Accessibilities Committee.
to be utilized in service material. The committee looks The committee looks forward to a progress report to be
forward to a progress report at the 2025 General brought back to the 2025 Conference Committee on
Service Conference. Treatment and Accessibilities with shared experience
• The committee reviewed the Treatment Kit and from the Fellowship on neurodivergence and alcohol-
Workbook and forwarded to the trustees’ CPC/ ism to inform service material updates.
Treatment and Accessibilities Committee a list of minor
edits to the workbook to be implemented at the next TRUSTEES
printing. Committee Considerations:
• The committee reviewed the Accessibilities Kit and • The committee reviewed the résumés and approved
Workbook and forwarded to the trustees’ CPC/ as eligible for election all Class B trustee candidates
Treatment and Accessibilities Committee a list of pam- for West Central Regional trustee and Western Canada
phlets/resources to be added to the kit. Regional trustee.
• The committee reviewed updated Bridging the Gap • The committee reviewed an update report regard-
service materials and made further suggestions for ing the pamphlet “Do You Think You’re Different?”
consistency across Bridging the Gap materials. The committee noted that the trustees’ Literature
• The committee reviewed the accessibilities inven- Committee has called for story submissions with an
tory provided by the trustees’ CPC/Treatment and April 30, 2024, deadline. The committee requested
Accessibilities committee and suggested minor edits. that the trustees’ Literature Committee provide a draft
The committee asked that the staff coordinator on the pamphlet or progress report to the 2025 Conference
Accessibilities desk make the list available to download Committee on Trustees.
from the Accessibilities Committee’s page on aa.org Note: As a result of the 2021-22 Equitable Distribution
and share the link with the staff coordinator on the of Workload plan, the above item was on the agenda of
Cooperation with the Professional Community desk for the Conference Committee on Trustees.

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• The committee discussed the agenda item to consider General Service Conference to allow for additional time
guidelines and parameters regarding the deadline to on the agenda for general sharing and questions.
submit Conference agenda items and took no action.
The committee affirmed that Proposed Agenda Items PUBLIC INFORMATION
(PAIs) received after the current year’s deadline are • The committee recommended that a social media
processed in the following year. policy be developed for all current and future social
media channels and requested that a draft be brought
Recommendations that achieved Simple back to the 2025 Conference Committee on Public
Information.
Majority — These items did not receive the
• The committee recommended that to better provide
two-thirds majority required to pass
equality in availability and messaging, starting with the
as a Conference Advisory Action. July 2024 General Service Board Meeting, that unedited
but anonymity-protected minutes, including trustees’
TRUSTEES committee reports in English, Spanish, and French,
The committee recommended the following change to be provided to all Conference members within three
the Scope of the Conference Committee on Trustees’ weeks following quarterly Board Weekends. Minutes
Composition, Scope, and Procedure: should retain the current format and scope.
Currently reads:
2. The committee reviews the resumes of all newly
Floor Actions Not Resulting
nominated Class A and Class B trustees of the in Conference Advisory Actions
General Service Board and nontrustee directors of • A pamphlet for the unhoused person that specifically
the corporate boards (AAWS and the AA Grapevine). addresses alcoholism, what A.A. is and is not, who is
The committee reviews the slates of members and welcome at A.A. meetings, and includes stories from
officers of the General Service Board and the slates AA members who have experienced homelessness be
of corporate board directors, before the Conference developed and a draft or progress report be brought
meeting, and expresses disapproval, if any. back to the appropriate 2025 Conference committee.
(Conference declined to consider)
Revised to read:
2. The committee reviews the resumes of all Class A • PAIs requesting censure and reorganization have no
submission deadline and be forwarded directly to
and Class B trustees of the General Service Board
Conference Committee on Trustees. (Not Approved)
and nontrustee directors of the corporate boards
(AAWS and the AA Grapevine). The committee • All memorandums between Conference Committee
reviews the slates of members and officers of the and Trustees Committees or Boards be made avail-
General Service Board and the slates of corporate able to all members of the Conference. (Conference
board directors, before the Conference meeting, and declined to consider)
expresses disapproval, if any.
Motion passed to recommit Floor Actions
Recommendations Not Resulting #5-#15 to the appropriate trustees’
in Conference Action Committee or Corporate Board
These recommendations were presented but did not Floor Action #5:
receive the two-thirds vote necessary to become a It was recommended that:
Conference Advisory Action. The Conference affirm that La Viña continue to be pub-
lished by the AA Grapevine and supported by the General
FINANCE Service Board as a service to the Fellowship. La Viña con-
• The committee recommended that the General Service tinues to be published utilizing AA Grapevine resources in
Board hold one Quarterly Board weekend a year virtu- order to achieve efficient production and distribution.
ally when possible. The committee is respectful of the Submitted on April 18, 2024, by
General Service Board Bylaws, and Concept 3, Right of Richard O.
decision of the General Service Board Chair. Panel 74 A8, San Diego/Imperial California, Delegate
• The committee recommended that the Trustees Emeriti Floor Action #6:
of the General Service Board be invited to the Annual It was recommended that:
General Service Conference and to the General Service The Grapevine Board develop a plan for a more effective
Board weekends at their own expense. La Viña subscription procedure, fulfillment process and
customer service experience, and that a progress report
AGENDA be brought back to the 2025 Conference Committee on
Motion made at Opening Session: Grapevine and La Viña.
• The committee recommended suspension of oral pre- Submitted on April 18, 2024, by
sentation of all Area Service Highlights during the 74th Irene D., GSO Staff Member

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Floor Action #7: for the Grapevine with the goal to reduce shortfalls and
It was recommended that: increase revenue to be brought back to 2025 Conference
All non-offensive PAIs submitted for consideration of Committee on Grapevine and La Viña.
the 72nd, 73rd and 74th General Service Conferences Submitted on April 19, 2024, by
regarding the change made to the A.A. Preamble by the Pablo H.
71st General Service Conference be grouped as one item, Panel 73 A93, Central California, Delegate
and forwarded to the appropriate 75th General Service Floor Action #11:
Conference committee with the following suggestion:
given the importance and interest of this issue, consider It was recommended that:
forwarding the item to the general service areas for wider Reaffirming the 1975 Advisory Action that in reports
discussion, looking toward a fair and reasonable solution to their areas delegates place more emphasis on group
to the division within the Fellowship by the use of differ- support. Delegates should emphasize to the groups the
ent copyrighted Preambles. effect that inflation has had on the contribution dollar
Submitted on April 18, 2024, by and the necessity for adjusting contributions according-
Ilir T. ly to support services provided by the General Service
Panel 74 A12, Delaware, Delegate Board.
Submitted on April 19, 2024, by
Floor Action #8: Suzanne S.
It was recommended that: Panel 73 A30, Eastern Massachusetts, Delegate
The additional feedback from the Conference Committee
Floor Action #12:
on Literature identified in their memo to the Publishing
Department on sticking points for the Plain Language It was recommended that:
draft manuscript be implemented in the draft before Delegates who require translation be provided with all doc-
printing. uments, materials, reports, communications, etc., in their
Submitted on April 19, 2024, by native language, with all necessary information to be able
Nick K. to fulfill their role as trusted servants, bearing in mind the
Panel 74 A41, Nebraska, Delegate traditional Right of Participation.
Submitted on April 19, 2024, by
Floor Action #9:
Julio A. Maldonado
It was recommended that: Panel 74, A77, Puerto Rico, Delegate
Whenever any changes are brought to the Conference
floor to the Founders’ writings, considered by this motion Floor Action #13:
to be: It was recommended that:
1. The book Alcoholics Anonymous — specifically, the In the flyer “A.A. At a Glance” — in the last paragraph on
first 164 pages, the chapter “The Doctor’s Opinion,” page one under the heading “Who can attend A.A. meet-
Forewords to the first and second editions, the ings?” that the last sentence ‘Closed’ discussion meetings
Appendices on Spiritual Awaking and the Traditions, are for alcoholics only” be changed to: “Attendance at a
and Dr. Bob’s Nightmare ‘closed’ meeting is limited to A.A. members and persons
2. The book Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions who have a desire to stop drinking.”
Submitted on April 19, 2024, by
the Conference must achieve a supermajority of 75%
Irma V. B.-N.
for the General Service Board to act upon it. However,
Western Canada Regional Trustee
the General Service Board shall not immediately act
upon the Conference’s directions, and instead, shall Floor Action #14:
request all Area Delegates to conduct further discussions It was recommended that:
in their respective Areas. Area delegates’ report backs
The explanations of the Steps, Traditions, and Concepts be
will be conducted the second following General Service
Conference at which the Conference may amend or removed from the Plain Language Big Book.
change the previously approved change to the Founders’ Submitted on April 19, 2024, by
writings described above. For final action by the General Jimmy W.
Service Board, the Conference must achieve substantial Panel 74, A64 Tennessee, Delegate
unanimity. Floor Action #15:
Submitted on April 19, 2024, by
It was recommended that:
Ilir T.
Panel 74 A12, Delaware, Delegate The Plain Language Big Book be retitled to: “The Plain
Language Guide to A.A.’s Twelve Steps of Recovery.”
Floor Action #10: Submitted on April 19, 2024, by
It was recommended that: Debbie H.
The AA Grapevine Board develop a 5-year financial plan Panel 73, A39 Western Missouri, Delegate

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■ GSO Department Reports

Administration — General Manager: Robert (Bob) W. is All of this necessitated reorganization of the staff coor-
an A.A. member and provides overall leadership to the dinator role and the Administration department, includ-
General Service Office (GSO). A busy role and one he ing reshaping the executive assistant’s role and also the
refers to as “a labor of love,” he leads through the philos- addition of a new position of Administrative Coordinator
ophy of Servant Leadership, which is a principle-based to the General Manager. Implementation of these chang-
leadership style. Bob is committed to infusing the princi- es began last fall and was done with full collaboration
ples of A.A., the Steps, Traditions and Concepts, into the with the staff coordinator, director of staff services, the
operations of the office. new administrative coordinator, the executive assistant
Through delegation to the twelve departmental direc- to the general manager and the general manager.
tors and managers who directly report to him, the day-
Administrative Coordinator to the General Manager:
to-day management and execution of the many services
Jacob Diaz holds the role of administrative coordinator
and functions is carried out by the 92 dedicated employ-
to the general manager. Recognizing the need to have
ees of A.A. World Services (AAWS). This delegation is
administrative support to the GSB more centralized and
necessary for the effective functioning of the office, is
closer to the general manager, the role of administrative
characteristic of Servant Leadership and is in line with
coordinator was developed to provide high-level admin-
our Twelve Concepts.
istrative support to the General Service Board. The role
Proper delegation allows him to also serve as a direc-
now serves as the central point of contact for all matters
tor of the AAWS Board and its president. He is also close-
concerning the General Service Board, including coor-
ly connected to the General Service Board (GSB), serving
dinating GSB Weekends, interim board meetings, and
as their chief executive of the office, and ex officio on
regular meetings between the GSB chair and the general
most of their committees. The relationship with each
manager. The coordinator also now shares direct sup-
board carries much responsibility in the way of meeting
port of the general manager with the executive assistant,
participation, time commitment and organization. The
providing additional general support and allowing the
general manager is also a voting member of the General
general manager to fulfill many other responsibilities.
Service Conference and serves as its co-chair.
In addition to the responsibilities to the Boards and Executive Assistant to the General Manager (EA):
GSO, the general manager maintains communication Pamela P.. holds the position of executive assistant to
with the Fellowship through regular letters and updates the general manager. She provides high-level admin-
and correspondence received at GSO. He also attends istrative support, maintaining the efficiency and effec-
and participates in various service assemblies and con- tiveness of the administration department. She man-
ferences throughout our structure. He also engages in ages the general manager’s calendar, daily schedules,
global meetings, including the World Service Meeting, and correspondence. She also coordinates the general
which allows for the facilitation of connections with manager’s many meetings both in person and virtual-
A.A. structures and members around the world, max- ly, arranges travel logistics, prepares expense reports,
imizing the ease of the licensing of our literature and and maintains relationships with management and
fostering communications to strengthen A.A.’s interna- leadership teams. The EA also serves as secretary to
tional presence. the AAWS corporate board by scheduling meetings,
Direct support of the general manager has been preparing agendas and background materials, recording
retained in the executive assistant (EA) role. It has been meeting minutes, and providing executive support to
clear that additional support was needed, particularly the chair of the AAWS Board by ensuring all materials
with the extensive duties of the Secretary to the AAWS are distributed promptly, recording accurate meeting
Board, a position held by the EA. In addition to the minutes and decisions, and following up on action
need for more administrative support, a gap between items such as the development and distribution of the
the connection and relationship between the GSB and AAWS Highlights newsletter.
the general manager existed. Traditionally, service and Restructuring of the Administration department has
support to the GSB has been provided through the GSO centralized and brought the support of the AAWS Board
staff coordinator role. Like the EA, the staff coordinator and General Service Board closer to the general man-
also has extensive AAWS Board duties serving as one ager role, consolidated administrative duties across
of its directors. They also have much responsibility to the Boards improving service and support to them.
the GSO Staff in the way of training, coordination of the Additional benefits are: much needed additional sup-
weekly staff meeting and many other functions. The port to the general manager, more balanced workload
service and support of the GSB is often directly related for the EA and the allowance for more focus for the
to areas very relevant to the duties of the general man- staff coordinator on training and GSO Staff activity
ager. The nature of the staff coordinator and general and assignment coordination. The administration team
manager roles have made connection with these ser- works together closely, meeting several times a week
vices feasible. to discuss the department’s operations, management of

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projects and meeting deadlines, as well as strategies to • Google Ads campaigns

strengthen the support of the GSO, the Boards, and the • Analytics for our digital platforms to inform deci-
Fellowship of A.A. sion-making and strategy
Archives — Michelle Mirza (nonalcoholic), Archivist: The • Coordination of email campaigns and communication
mission of the Alcoholics Anonymous General Service distribution to the membership and the public
Office Archives is to document permanently the work of • Production and distribution of GSO newsletters
Alcoholics Anonymous, to make the history of the orga-
• Work with Public Information coordinator on media
nization accessible to A.A. members and other research-
relations, including press releases and media manage-
ers, and to provide a context for understanding A.A.’s
ment platform
progression, principles and traditions.
• Content creation, including social media posts and
Consistent with A.A.’s primary purpose of maintaining
graphics
our sobriety and helping other alcoholics achieve recov-
ery, the Archives of the General Service Office will: • Discovery, planning, and strategy for best tools, plat-
• Receive, classify, and index all relevant material, such forms, and practices to advance the reach and impact
as administrative files and records, correspondence, of A.A. messages.
digital materials, and literary works and artifacts con- Of note is the growth in traffic to aa.org, which serves
sidered to have historical importance to Alcoholics as the primary portal for members and others looking for
Anonymous; information about A.A. and resources for the suffering
alcoholic. CSD continues to focus on maintaining and
• Hold and preserve such material;
advancing the site’s functionality so that our life-saving
• Provide access to this material, as determined by the information is easier to find, view, and share. Today, the
archivist in consultation with the trustees’ Archives site sees more than 800,000 visitors per quarter with
Committee, to members of Alcoholics Anonymous consistent growth in both number of visitors and engage-
and to others who may have a valid need to review ment with the site content.
such material, contingent upon a commitment to pre- With more than 750,000+ active users, the Meeting
serve the anonymity of our members; Guide app continues to provide a free, critical connection
• Serve as a resource and laboratory to stimulate and for those looking for accurate and up-to-date meeting
nourish learning; information. CSD is always exploring ways to improve
• Provide information services to assist the operations the functionality of the popular app, with a map function
of Alcoholics Anonymous; planned for rollout in 2024.
CSD also works closely with the Publishing Department
• Promote knowledge and understanding of the origins,
and Public Information coordinator on public-facing ini-
goals and programs of Alcoholics Anonymous.
tiatives, collaborating on strategies to build consistency
Communication Services — Clorinda V., Director: The in how we communicate A.A. identity and messages
Communication Services Department (CSD) continues across all digital projects and departments. Such projects
to grow in its reach, impact, and areas of responsibility. include the new Membership Survey webpage to accom-
Created by the General Service Board in 2019 (and pre- pany the print pamphlet and the upcoming GSO podcast.
viously a Staff Assignment), the department continues to CSD also is working with the International Convention
evolve to serve the needs of our Fellowship. coordinator on the communications strategy for the
The department is a dynamic hub for integrated 2025 convention in Vancouver.
communications focused on “carrying the message” CSD supports the AAWS Technology/Communication/
in the digital age. The CSD team works to develop and Services committee, the General Service Board Trustees’
deploy strategies to implement initiatives in keeping committees on Public Information and Cooperation
with the group conscience, Conference advisory actions, with the Professional Community, and the Conference
board directives, office needs, and A.A. Traditions. CSD Committee on Public Information, as well as supporting/
employs best practices in communications to effectively serving on ad hoc and subcommittees as requested, such
as the annual Comprehensive Media Plan subcommittee.
share information about A.A. and make it available to our
The director also works with the general manager on
intended audiences, including A.A. members, suffering
communications to the Fellowship.
alcoholics, the professional community, and the media,
as well as the public at large. The CSD team also includes:
• Senior Communications Manager (Julie Gonzalez):
CSD is responsible for the ongoing development,
Guides day-to-day oversight, development, and man-
implementation, operation, and updating of multiple dig-
agement of CSD projects and activities; responsible for
ital products, platforms, and services including:
the development, execution, and policy of analytics
• the Alcoholics Anonymous website aa.org and search engine optimization (SEO) across all GSO
• the Meeting Guide app — a free A.A. meeting finder digital communications platforms.
• Social media platforms, including YouTube and • Senior Digital Strategist (Tracey G.): Leads ongoing
LinkedIn development of digital strategy, products, and ser-

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vices, including websites and applications, such as the tributed by paper check, requiring additional research, time,
Meeting Guide app, that offer user-friendly tools and and money to process. You can help reduce processing cost
critical information to members and others. by encouraging online contributions through our website:
• Communications Specialist (Samantha Nieto): www.aa.org. For those who wish to contribute by check, our
Supports multiple digital communications projects mailing addresses for contributions are:
and serves as a lead content creator and strategist For US Dollar checks:
across our platforms to reach our intended audiences. James A. Farley Station
• Communications Assistant (Tara Lafemina): Provides P.O. Box 2407
administrative support to CSD, assists with commu- New York, NY 10116- 2407 USA
nication distribution, and provides support for the For Canadian Dollar cheques:
website and Meeting Guide app. P.O. Box 459
• Online Content Manager (Marc Bucaoto): Supports all New York, NY 10163 USA
aspects of aa.org, including web design and devel-
Accounts payable includes verifying receipt of goods
opment, routine site and content maintenance, and
and services, verifying proper approval and accuracy of
updates to ensure sites align with GSO and goals and
payments, and issuing payments to vendors through spe-
objectives and offers an optimal user experience.
cialized software that records the expenses in the appro-
Finance and Accounting — Paul Konigstein (nonalco- priate accounts. In 2023, the department processed over
holic), Chief Financial Officer and Zenaida Medina (non- 2,000 payments to vendors.
alcoholic), Controller: The mission of the Finance and Payroll includes communicating with Human Resources
Accounting department is: regarding personnel, salary and benefits changes, calculat-
• Within the framework established by the AAWS corpo- ing bi-weekly pay and certain employee benefit amounts,
rate Board, the General Service Board, and their appro- communicating with the payroll service to pay employees
priate committees, to provide the Boards, General and tax authorities, paying employee benefits providers,
Service Conference delegates, and the Fellowship and recording the expenses in the appropriate accounts.
with the transparent financial information needed to Budgeting includes collaborating with the AAWS corpo-
ensure the financial health of A.A., be good stewards rate Board and Finance Committee, the General Service
of A.A.’s assets, and make sure financial activity is Board, Trustees Finance and Budgetary Committee, the
faithful to the Twelve Traditions and Concepts. General Manger, and GSO directors, managers, and Staff
• To provide the general manager and GSO directors, to draft a financial plan for each GSO department and
managers, and Staff with the financial information Staff assignment and submitting the plan for approval to
needed to make informed decisions consistent with the appropriate AAWS and GSB committees and Boards.
our financial plan. Budgeting also includes monitoring actual financial
• To facilitate GSO’s day-to-day business by processing activity compared to plan, calling leadership attention to
transactions such as contributions, payment for litera- variances from the plan, and recommending revisions to
ture, and payments to vendors. the plan when appropriate.
Assistance with Regional Forums, Conference, World Service
Responsibilities of this department include: Meeting, and International Convention includes serving as
Financial control includes creating and monitoring com- secretary to the Conference Finance Committee and
pliance with procedures to safeguard assets, minimize providing support to its chair, being a resource for infor-
errors, ensure that expenditures are prudent, and ensure mation during the budget process for these events, pro-
that financial information is accurate. cessing GSC and WSM delegate fees and additional con-
Accounts receivable includes reconciling daily cash tributions, coordinating with International Convention
receipts for literature orders, preparation of bank depos- vendors, reconciling bank accounts, and providing cash
its, recording of customer payments, respectful collection activity reports.
of outstanding balances, and management of credit for Management reporting includes performing account anal-
customer accounts. Responsibilities also include account ysis and bank reconciliations to ensure accurate reports,
balance research and sending statements to customers summarizing income and expense transactions, prepar-
with outstanding balances. In 2023, the department pro- ing financial profit and loss, asset and liability, budget,
cessed payment of 55,132 literature orders from 28,743 and cash reports, and distributing these reports to GSO
customers. staff and, as provided by Conference Advisory Actions
Contributions includes daily processing of contributions and governed by the Boards, to delegates and the
received, ensuring that all contributions are consistent Fellowship.
with the Seventh Tradition, classifying contributions as Facilitating audits includes providing information to and
individual, group, or special, acknowledging all contribu- responding to inquiries from auditors of the financial
tions, answering inquiries, and doing any research nec- records of AAWS and GSB and the employee retirement
essary regarding contributions. In 2023, the department plan. Responsibilities also include providing information
processed 76,531 contributions. 27% of individuals con- for insurance company premium audits.

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Literature inventory valuation includes ensuring the accu- In addition to our internal endeavors, the Human
racy of inventory counts and that appropriate, generally Resources department continues to extend our support
accepted accounting principles are followed in the valua- to AA Grapevine, providing resources as needed to assist
tion of AAWS literature inventory. in their mission.
Assistance with the General Service Board’s Reserve Fund Language Services — Stéphanie Bozino-Routier (nonal-
and the AAWS and AA Grapevine employee retirement
coholic), Director of Language Services: The Department
plans includes managing the investment of the Reserve
of Language Services was created in the fall of 2022. It
Fund in certificates of deposit within the parameters set
is now composed of the Director of Language Services,
forth by the Reserve Fund policy adopted by the General
French Translation Managing Editor, French Translator,
Service Board. This also includes participating in retire-
ment committee meetings, reconciling reserve fund and Spanish Language Translator, and our full-time consul-
retirement account statements, and reporting on funding tant (Translator/Editor/Interpreter). The department also
status to the Boards and the Fellowship. uses the services of contractors to complete all assign-
ments as per allocated timelines.
Property and liability insurance includes, under the gov-
In his 2022 Gratitude letter, the General Manager
ernance of the AAWS Internal Audit Committee, collab-
writes: “The Language Services department centralizes
orating with the insurance broker to draft an insurance
the function of translation of our literature and thou-
plan and purchase insurance policies which ensure that
financial risks are prudently covered. sands of documents into several languages each year.
It also coordinates essential interpretation services that
Sales tax includes ensuring that the applicable sales tax on allow for direct interaction and communication with
literature sales is collected from customers and remitted to
other A.A. structures around the world. These services
the appropriate local, state, provincial, or national taxing
ensure full participation and help to unify our worldwide
jurisdiction along with filing of the appropriate tax return.
Fellowship.”
Human Resources — Dina F., Director: Our mission in The Department approaches its initiatives with the
the Human Resources department remains steadfast: to principles of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibili-
cultivate a workplace where every individual feels valued, ty, and strives to provide high-quality services to serve all
supported, and proud of their contributions to AAWS. As stakeholders and members of our Fellowship in English,
we navigate the dynamic landscape of our organization, Spanish, and French, simultaneously. Embracing a holis-
and the ever-changing market for talent, it’s imperative tic methodology, the department has been working
that we not only manage the full spectrum of the employ- on further developing its policies and procedures and
ee lifecycle but also prioritize initiatives that enhance implementing innovative processes, involving all constit-
engagement and foster a culture of collaboration. uencies. The department is researching industry-related
At the heart of our efforts lies a commitment to pro- technology and will be undergoing training on the effec-
moting a positive work environment focused on sup- tive use of our current software, to improve the quality,
porting our Fellowship. This encompasses everything
speed, and consistency of translation.
from refining our recruitment strategies to consistently
enhancing our onboarding and training plans, imple- Translation, editing, and proofreading services include:
menting robust learning and development programs, • A.A. literature, new and revised
effective performance management, bolstering employ-
• A.A. sales materials
ee relations, rolling out impactful and cost-effective
employee benefits, ensuring fair compensation, and • General Service Conference documents, including
being a trusted resource for all of our employees. background documents, Manual, communications,
Moreover, we are dedicated in our commitment to onsite translation, and final report
compliance with all relevant federal, state, and local • Outward-facing materials, such as press releases, and
laws and regulations; and ensuring that our employment LinkedIn posts
practices remain ethical, transparent, and inclusive. The
• Staff correspondence
Human Resources team works closely with the General
Manager, and in collaboration with other department • Activity updates
Directors, advising on industry trends, developments in • Fellowship services
compensation and employee benefits, mitigating risk, • Corporate communications
and revising existing plans and policies.
In 2023, AAWS experienced an 8.3% increase in per- • Newsletters, including Box 4-5-9, Sharing from Behind
sonnel alongside a 12.3% turnover rate (compared to a the Walls, About AA, and the Remote Communities
22% turnover rate in the preceding year). The average Communicator
length of service among our employees is 6.5 years, with • Service material
22% of our team having dedicated over a decade to our • A.A. event programs and reports
organization! Notably, our longest-serving employee has
been with AAWS for an impressive 42 years, a milestone • Website/Webstore and social media content
they will reach this summer. • Internal documents, emails

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Interpretation services include: need for new translation in languages and communities
• A.A. events, including the General Service Conference, not represented by GSOs. We are reviewing pending
the World Service Meeting, and the Meeting of the translations, including sign language, to translate litera-
Americas (REDELA, zonal service meeting) ture to share with the Fellowship. A.A. items of litera-
• Other interpretation services for board members and ture (books, booklets, pamphlets, Alcoholics Anonymous
GSO staff and the Twelve Steps to name a few) are available in
109 languages worldwide. The Grapevine request form
Other services include: is active and available for use on TLC. These requests
• Revision of materials for reprint are for license, translation and information requests.
Collaboration with Grapevine is ongoing to fulfill the
• Audio requests.
• Scripts for Public Service Announcements The Intellectual Property functions/tasks also tran-
• Transcription sitioned from the Publishing Department into the new
• Printer’s proofs department. The IP role is responsible for the screen-
ing of requests for permission to excerpt from and/
• Digital and website proofs or reprint AAWS copyright protected materials and for
Legal, Licensing and Intellectual Property — Beverly AAWS owned trademark and domain name registra-
Jones-King, Director Legal, Licensing and Intellectual tions and renewals. Additionally, the IP Administrator
Property: This newly created department is tasked with is responsible for investigation of reported abuses of
reviewing existing contracts, standardizing and orga- AAWS copyright or other intellectual property interests.
nizing both vendor and employee new contracts. The We respond to requests from the Fellowship regarding:
department performs many fundamental needs of the reprint requests, including requests to adapt A.A.’s
Fellowship regarding responding to requests and supply- Twelve Steps, and/or Twelve Traditions and the Big
ing translations and licenses of literature to the interna- Book, use of A.A. materials as set dressing in movie, TV,
tional community and responding to Intellectual Property stage, and similar productions. Review of current poli-
requests ensuring our trademarks/service marks are not cies, procedures and processes for processing requests
infringed. are ongoing.
The Licensing (International Licensing) section of Meetings, Events and Travel Services (METS) — Sharon
the department transitioned into the new depart- Vasquez (nonalcoholic), Manager: This team coordinates
ment in September 2022 and continues to respond travel and accommodations for trustees, nontrustee
to International Licensing queries and requests. We directors, ACMs, staff and the personnel at GSO. This
conduct one-on-one Licensing virtual meetings with the group also serves as GSO’s event planners, organizing
Fellowship to determine their needs for various materi- and assisting at major GSO-managed events, especially
als regarding licenses, permits, printing and to familiar- the General Service Conference, Regional Forums and
ize them with the department and its processes. With the World Service Meeting. METS is available during all
the implementation and creation of the Translations events to provide virtual and/or onsite assistance.
Licensing Connection (TLC) portal that was launched
in April, we have had a significant impact on the effec- Operations — Malini Singh (nonalcoholic), Director of
tiveness of the delivery of our international licensing Operations: Inventory management: This unit monitors
services. We transferred approximately 1,095 email inventory on-hand at the warehouses and reviews the
requests into the portal. TLC is actively in use by 50 rates of depletion to project future inventory require-
structures as the primary source of all correspondence ments. The department determines reorder points
and processing. As of October 2023, the backlog has based on average monthly distribution and advises
been completed and we are current with the requests! the senior production manager when items are up for
The use of TLC has allowed us to expedite our progress reordering. This unit ensures that inventory is kept at
and respond within a 45-day timeframe. We are creat- optimal levels at all warehouses. We update and main-
ing new policies and procedures based on the creation tain each unique item maintenance file on NetSuite.
and use of TLC portal, and addressing the demand for New items are issued and set up as needed by this
digital, eBooks and audio books as the need for these team. We determine and set up safety stock levels
has increased. Also, we are in the final stages of devel- for each item and review the safety-stock alert report
opment of the multi-purpose license form (an à la carte weekly. The Inventory department peruses the goods
document) for use for licensing and renewals. This form received reports from the warehouses and resolves
should be finalized within a few months. Translation of inconsistencies. We post the goods received and issue
the Big Book “Alcoholics Anonymous” in Haitian Creole inventory transfers to and from all distribution points.
is under way and will be completed soon. The pamphlets We also monitor the inventory levels for the service kits
“Is AA for Me?” and “How It Works” in Haitian Creole and issue work-orders to the warehouse to assemble
are completed. The Fellowship will be notified of the the kits. This department reviews monthly warehouse
availability. Our collaboration with other departments activity reports and reconciles significant item discrep-
assists us in identifying the communities who have the ancies.

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Warehousing and shipping: This unit is responsible for Mail and Shipping: This team of two was responsible
researching and negotiating with freight companies to for processing approximately 35,623 pieces of incom-
guarantee that AAWS is getting the most competitive ing and 9,599 pieces of outgoing mail in 2023. This
pricing and to secure new freight vendors as needed. unit manages the assembling, packing and shipping of
Another function of this department is to audit the freight various complimentary packages including Conference,
invoices to ensure that shipments are charged at the Public Information and DCM packages. They also man-
correct rates and that truckers’ discounts are properly age the picking and shipping of literature for Regional
applied. The department assigns freight carriers for all Forums and Health Fairs. This team is also responsible
shipments from the printers/manufacturers to the distri- for troubleshooting challenges that occur with mail deliv-
bution points. We manage the two outsourced warehous- ery to our two P.O. Boxes. This team is responsible for
es. The team reviews and processes warehouse invoices supporting AA Grapevine for all matters related to their
and fulfillment reports and investigates and resolves mail and shipping needs.
discrepancies. We also monitor the yearly physical count
Publishing — David R., Publishing Director: All of the
at the Kansas City warehouse, and we update NetSuite
Publishing department’s efforts continue to serve the
accordingly whenever a physical count is conducted at
mission of AAWS, Inc., and our primary purpose of car-
each warehouse.
rying the message to the next sick and suffering alcoholic
Member Services: The Member Services department via our literature — with this overarching imperative: To
manages and troubleshoots all member and custom- maintain the highest quality editorial, production and
er-related issues that arise in the order fulfillment, con- distribution standards while implementing best indus-
tributions, and records update processes. They manage try-wide practices and leveraging economies and cost
the warehousing, shipping, and literature delivery issues containment. This year, continuing to be challenged by
to ensure smooth operations and timeliness. They also ongoing industry-wide print supply-chain obstacles and
troubleshoot issues relating to the online bookstore and escalating inflation and expenses, we worked diligently
Fellowship Connection portal. across office departments and with the fiduciary over-
The Member Services department is responsible for sight of the AAWS board, exploring and implementing
processing and posting all literature orders; determining new processes (and formats) with much success. This
from which location to ship each order. The team pro- resulted in reducing backorders and containing print-
cesses orders received each day from the United States, ing, binding and distribution expenses. Throughout,
Canada and overseas. We receive orders via the online we sought to regularly communicate with local groups,
bookstore, phone, mail and fax. Overseas orders are Intergroups, central offices, and the Fellowship on the
typically shipped from the Canadian warehouse. Member availability of our items of literature.
Services also generates and processes the invoices for
List Price increases
sales orders. The department gives price quotes and
After several years of financial analysis exacted by
provides members and customers with general informa-
trustee committees, finance committees and sub-com-
tion regarding the ordering of literature. We also process
mittees along with professionals across departments in
all complimentary literature initiated by Staff, which
the General Service Office — and careful consideration
includes New Group, New GSR and other complimentary
by the board, all of which responding to the challenge
literature. Literature orders are transmitted to the ware-
of escalating cost of goods and inflation throughout
house daily via Celigo integrator. The team processes
the supply chain dramatically cutting into our literature
members’ contributions and ensures that acknowledg-
margins, in April 2023 the List Prices of AAWS books
ments are credited to the correct accounts. They conduct
and pamphlets underwent a List Price increase for print
the necessary research and provide information related
and digital formats. This was the first “across-the-board”
to member contributions.
increase implemented since the Fall of 2014.
The Member Services team updates group informa-
In sum, it is the responsibility of the Publishing depart-
tion in NetSuite, processing new group applications,
ment to meet overall publishing goals determined by the
responding to email/phone inquiries, and maintenance
General Service Board, A.A. World Services, Inc., and the
of the mailing lists. This team is the direct link from
General Service Conference.
GSO to the Area Registrars. They provide Fellowship
Notable progress was achieved moving forward items
Connection training to the Area Registrars and advise on
that, for various reasons, were out of production and
any updates or changes to the online portal. They also
distribution in the “Covid Era” to be back in stock and
update and maintain the Fellowship Connection User
available for distribution; working together closely in an
Manual and instructional videos.
intra-office working group comprised of the Staff Group
Front Desk/Receptionist: This department is responsible Services desk coordinator, key Member Services and
for managing operations at the Front Desk, including Operations personnel, and professionals in the Finance,
but not limited to greeting visitors to the General Service Editorial and Production departments — particularly
Office, answering incoming switchboard calls and for- in the categories of addressing pamphlets, our service
warding the calls to the appropriate individuals. materials and kits in English, French and Spanish.

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Throughout 2023, we continued our focus on the way in committee process, in the revision process,
attraction, inclusivity and accessibility. Notably, in French or Spanish translation, or for various reasons.
great strides marched forward in making our digital There are no “stuck items” now.
formats (audio, PDF and ebook) available on tablets The senior production manager/print works with the
to persons who are in custody, the sick and suffering production coordinator to ensure optimum manufactur-
alcoholic “behind the walls,” in jails, prisons and ing quality of print literature at the most competitive
other Corrections locales. costs. Bids are gathered and vendors selected from a
Publishing department divisions are: Editorial, pool of vendors and printers, who will produce quality
Production (print and digital), Digital Distribution and products on time and at a reasonable expense. Paper
Webstore. The Publishing department coordinates all costs, often quite volatile, are monitored and negotiated.
aspects of publishing literature, shepherding the ide- Ongoing worldwide supply-chain disruptions for paper
ation, draft origination, editing, revision and implemen- and other printing and manufacturing materials and
tation of General Service Conference Advisory Actions stiff competition for press time have necessitated daily
that pertain to items of Literature, including supply- diligent pro-active attention to these important tasks.
ing content for GSO’s website aa.org. The Publishing Several solutions and cost-containment innovations were
department collaborates closely with all other depart- brought to the fore by this experienced professional team
ments in the office. and were implemented in 2023.
Our Publishing team The senior production manager/digital works closely
The publishing director works with the general manager with the senior production manager/print, the executive
and the chief finance officer to determine Publishing editor, the managing editor, and also with professionals
department budget requirements and literature sales in the Communication Services department, and as a
projections. Regular reports are presented by the pub- resource for relevant Staff services positions, AAWS
lishing director to the AAWS Publishing Committee and and Trustee committees and workgroups to gather
other trustee committees, as necessary. The publishing costs, budget, contract vendors, and produce ebooks,
director works with the general manager and director of audiobooks and videos through the production, man-
finance with cost and pricing information gathered and ufacturing and on-sale / on-website digital distribution
analyzed from our production and fulfillment depart- processes.
ment professionals for proposed new AAWS items, The AAWS Digital Publishing Manager has oversight
discount test pilots, special offers, house-cleaning flash over the maintenance of our state-of-the-art AAWS web-
sales, and List Price analysis to be presented to the store and plays a leadership role in distribution and sales
AAWS board for their fiduciary oversight, consideration, analytics and in our ongoing enhanced vendor-hub dis-
and approvals. tribution of ebooks and audiobooks to individuals, insti-
The executive editor and managing editor work close- tutions, professionals, libraries, and Corrections venues.
ly with each GSO staff member to provide editorial direc- The incumbent, certified in NetSuite SuiteCommerce,
tion and expertise regarding Conference-approved litera- also participates in significant NetSuite e-commerce
ture in print and digital formats, Conference background, webstore new functionality development and mainte-
reports, service material, and other items. Copyediting nance, and collaborates closely with our technology ser-
draft manuscripts, incorporating board and Conference vices department professionals and contracted support
committee and staff suggestions for editorial chang- experts.
es, re-writing and preparing copy and layouts for the The Publishing Administrative Specialist performs a
Production team and Literature-related texts for aa.org plethora of support tasks for the Publishing Director and
are the responsibility of these editors. Freelance writers, supports our entire team; notably in the areas of coor-
copy editors and proofreaders, as well as artists and dinating, recording, and updating our budget process
designers, are also hired from time to time to develop with Finance colleagues; as well as being proficient in
material, create illustrations and animation, and design digital design, facilitating board meeting preparation;
item covers and layouts. email blasts; and acting as primary point person and
A newly created position of Publishing editorial proj- liaison and with colleagues for specific projects being
ect manager was created this year, with a new hire who coordinated with Language Services, Tech Services,
is a seasoned professional joining our team in March. Communication Services, Intellectual Property, Licensing
This position brings to the team much-needed contem- and International Translations.
porary experience in organization, tracking, reporting,
editing and proof-reading that benefits our Editorial and 2023
Production workflows. Working closely across depart-
ments, this much-needed addition of talent to our team
Publishing-Related Highlights
had an immediate, measurable, direct positive impact on Enhanced Digital Distribution of AAWS Literature — Now
streamlining our workflows and triaging our backordered in the third year of distribution of our materials to be
items, bringing back into distribution dozens and dozens sold (downloaded at a selling price) via an enhanced
of items of literature and service materials in English, vendor hub, which now totals more than 70 platforms
French and Spanish — which had been “stuck” along — in order to make our items of literature accessible

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and available on the platforms that members and profes- AUDIOBOOKS

sionals use to purchase their digital literature, our digital Item Item Quantity Amount
(audiobook and ebook) distribution continues its uptick AB-1 Alcoholics Anonymous 30,241 $29,224.75
as a revenue stream to individuals, professionals, institu- AB-12 Daily Reflection 366 $622.59
tions, libraries, subscription services (including Amazon, AB-2 Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions 11,177 $11,417.73
Google Play, Apple, Kobo, OverDrive, VitalSource and AB-7 Living Sober 3,453 $2,360.62
others). Progress for digital distribution to Corrections AFB-1 Les Alcooliques Anonymes 623 $577.92
venues via tablets throughout the United States reached AFB-12 Reflexions Quotidiennes 21 $125.61
another significant milestone in 2023. AFB-2 Les Douze Etapes et les Douze Traditions 295 $240.53
2023 Revenue from Digital Distribution in 2023 — The AFB-7 Vivre... sans alcool! 742 $295.98
cumulative net total sales for eBooks and Audiobooks via ASB-1 Alcoholicos Anonimos 437 $541.67
Ingram CoreSource Plus for 2023 is $206,330.71. ASB-12 Relfexiones Diarias 15 $23.69
ASB-15 Doce Pasos y Doce Tradiciones 348 $390.43
• The net total for eBooks is $160,327.44.
ASB-7 Viviendo Sobrio 217 $181.75
• The net total for Audiobooks is $46,003.27. TOTAL 47,935 $46,003.27
This combined net revenue demonstrates a total 11%
net increase in Digital Distribution revenue for 2023 as Distribution to Corrections venues — via tablets
compared to 2022. Charting our progress over the 22 months since the
onset of making our digital format items of literature
Below you will find the 2023 item distribution data,
via tablets in Corrections venues, this progress has been
including units sold.
reported:
EBOOKS • via Edovo (GTL): 393 facilities throughout the U.S. have
Item Item Quantity Amount accessed AAWS digital literature across 62 unique
EB-1 Alcoholics Anonymous 16,056 $64,726.40 Areas in our structure.
EB-12 Daily Reflections 2,573 $10,374.41 Close to 20,000 unique “starts” (opening and starting
EB-13 Inmate to Inmate 57 $64.22 to read a given item of literature) have been reported.
EB-2 Twelve & Twelve 10,172 $38,589.43 Daily Reflections audiobook — a standout
EB-20 Experience, Strength & Hope 561 $1,295.15
The newest AAWS item to be made available on Edovo/
EB-3 A.A. Comes of Age 1,100 $4,461.1 GTL tablets is our recently recorded, completed and
EB-5 As Bill Sees It 3,382 $13,171.14 released Daily Reflections audiobook (in English, French,
EB-6 Came to Believe 1,735 $3,706.96 and Spanish editions). In its first month, reporting shows
EB-7 Living Sober 3,522 $7,760.29 the Spanish-language edition is the leading audiobook
EB-70 Our Great Responsibility 258 $1,201.79 item accessed across all three languages, having had
EB-8 Dr. Bob & the Good Oldtimers 858 $3,714.51 2,586 “unique starts.”
EB-9 Pass it On 530 $2,302.86 • Via Securus Jpay: Reporting continues to be refined
EFB-1 Alcooliques Anonymes 362 $1,443.58 and developed by this vendor. More than 200,000
EFB-12 Reflexions Quotidiennes 84 $339.61 tablets in Corrections venues across the United States
Les AA en Prison
include our digital items in place for access.
EFB-13 7 $7.48
— D’un Detenu — L’autre
Note: Edovo has informed us that it is moving toward
EFB-2 12 Etapes et 12 Traditions 177 $708.24 sharing its content on Securus Jpay tablets, across all
EFB-20 Experience, Force & Espoir 9 $21.62 devices in place in Corrections venues, an estimated 2
EFB-3 Le Mouvement des AA Devient Adulte 21 $99.26 million tablets plus other devices.
EFB-5 As Bill Sees It 68 $261.32 Also note: No revenue to AAWS is delivered from this
EFB-6 Nous en Somrnes Venus a Croire 52 $126.66 Corrections-specific tablet distribution channel nor is
EFB-7 Vivre... sans alcool! 164 $371.03 there measurable cost or expense absorbed by AAWS for
EFB-70 Notre grande responsabilite 7 $32.67 using this accessibility-driven distribution channel.
ESB-1 Alcoholicos Anonimos 412 $1,812. Also note: No specifics regarding individuals’ names or
ESB-12 Relfexiones Diarias 114 $499.21 individuals’ reading behavior is reported, and therefore
ESB-15 Doce Pasos y Doce Tradiciones 409 $1,698.80 our Tradition of anonymity is maintained.
ESB-3 AA Llega a su Mayoria de Edad 53 $219.56 • via Ingram CoreSource Plus (in Corrections libraries):
ESB-5 Como Lo Ve Bill 102 $404.89 This vendor’s portfolio of items includes AAWS and
ESB-6 Llegamos a Creer 99 $242.59 AAGV digital items as well, provided via the OverDrive
hub — the major vendor platform used by public and
ESB-7 Viviendo Sobrio 162 $418.18
institutional libraries, and a portal that is also accessed
ESB-70 Our Great Responsibility 54 $251.64
by some prisons, rehabilitation locales, and other
TOTAL 43,160 $160,327.44 venues.

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Canada Corrections venues Revisions to AAWS literature and other items

Ongoing meetings between the office’s Corrections Note: The implementation of revisions to text, format-
staff coordinator, AAWS publishing director, AAGV pub- ting, and design from draft to finished printed and/or
lisher, and Corrections Trustees Committee Canadian digital piece that is called for by trustee committees,
Corrections Working Group have been established with Advisory Actions, and Committee considerations are rou-
Canada Corrections Services (CSC), and together we are tinely implemented in our items of literature — the result
exploring enhanced delivery of items of literature into of collaboration across departments, with Staff service
Canadian Corrections facilities and collaboration with desk coordinators and committee work.
professionals serving them. • New! “Young People in A.A.” pamphlet (Item P-4)
This fully revised and redesigned item of General Service
Additional Publishing Highlights Conference-approved literature features new stories by
New format: Jacketless hardcovers seven young A.A. members, and we follow their experi-
and other innovations ence, strength and hope as they share: how it was, what
happened, and what it is like now on their sober journeys
Jacketless hardcover formats of the Big Book and Twelve
as members of our Fellowship. Color “profile” avatar
Steps and Twelve Traditions were made available begin-
illustrated images of the young people accompany their
ning in December 2022.
stories.
On the whole, Publishing department professionals
are actively pursuing industry best practices in the face • New! “A.A. for the Older Alcoholic” booklet (Item B-28)
of rising materials and printing/manufacturing cost Formerly available in an oversized, folded Large Print
of goods (COG) affecting print production materials pamphlet (Item P-22), this new expanded, rewritten, and
suppliers, paper mills, printers, binders, and delivery redesigned A.A. General Service Conference-approved
providers. The jacketless format (also called “paper-over- item features eight (8) new stories by A.A. members.
board”) has greatly shortened print turnaround times, Widespread member feedback requested the format
eliminated book backorders, and helped us in our efforts for this material be made more accessible, and we are
to deliver our basic life-saving texts to all who need them pleased to have delivered this solution.
in hardcover formats — and best serve A.A.’s Fellowship. • Newly revised! “A.A. in Your Community” pamphlet
New! “Soft-touch Velvet” cover finish (Item P-31)
on Softcover Big Books This newly revised A.A. General Service Conference-
In 2023 we announced that a new “soft-touch velvet” approved pamphlet has been completed and is available
cover treatment is now being used on our softcover Big for distribution.
Books. • New! Experiencia, Fortaleza y Esperanza (Item SB-20)
This cover treatment makes use of one of the most
This much-requested item of literature in a new Spanish
commonly used cover finishes available — that elimi-
translation of the English edition was completed in digital
nates the need for the special order of “custom” high-
format first and posted on aa.org and then made avail-
cost materials, which also have come to be accompanied able in a new print softcover edition in early 2023.
by long lead times resulting in backorders. This book includes 56 stories that have been retired
Often used on classic softcover book editions, the from the first three editions of the English-language edi-
“soft-touch velvet” finish is well known among readers tions of the Big Book, Alcoholics Anonymous, and for the
everywhere for its high-quality look and feel — and its first time are translated into Spanish and collected in this
durability. anthology.
Copies of our softcovers with this new cover treatment
continue to be put in circulation, as reprints are needed Special Offers — a New! Fall Flash Sale
and printed. An AAWS Fall Flash Sale, with limited special discount
prices on select items of literature was held October
New! — Daily Reflections Audiobook 16-November 3, 2023. House-cleaning of old-format and
This newest audiobook was completed in 2023, and overstocked items in our warehouses was achieved — as
it is now accessible in new professional recordings in well as offering price breaks on a variety of literature.
English, French and Spanish editions on aa.org (where
you can listen to it at no charge) as well as available for Projects in Process Highlights
download at a selling price from the major audiobook
platforms, and on Edovo / GTL tablets for people who Plain Language Big Book
are in custody. The Publishing director and Managing editor, working
closely with members of the Plain Language Big Book
New 2024 Catalog subcommittee of the Trustees’ Literature Committee
Will be released “digitally-first” in early 2024, followed and the Literature desk staff coordinator, have careful-
by a print version. ly addressed feedback from the 73rd General Service

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Conference regarding the first half of the draft manu- structure, and from around the world. The department
script, continued working with the writer and committee, receives correspondence by postal mail, email, fax, and
and have completed the full draft manuscript. phone calls. Last year, we responded to 165,420 emails
and 1,677 phone calls.
Fourth Edition Spanish Big Book
In addition to day-to-day communication with the
Two streams of work continue: Fellowship and public, department staff are responsible
• the working group review of revised translations of the for regional correspondence, and coordination of GSO
text Forewords and Chapters newsletters (specifically, Sharing from Behind the Walls,
• new stories by members from the Spanish-speaking LIM, and About A.A.; Box 4-5-9 is under the purview of the
A.A. Fellowship Communications Department with the literature assign-
ment retaining responsibility for the A.A. Events Calendar
Fifth Edition Big Book in Box 4-5-9).
Review of the more than 2,500 stories received from the Staff members are also invited to A.A. events through-
Fellowship continues by Trustees Literature. out the U.S. and Canada such as assemblies, conventions,
“A.A. for the Native and Indigenous North American” pam- workshops, and days of sharing, and the International
phlet: Work continues, with an extension of deadline for assignment coordinator regularly attends events in dif-
personal stories to be submitted. ferent zones and regions throughout the world. Whether
“Black in A.A.: Experience, Strength and Hope” (pam- in person, virtual or hybrid, our staff members look for-
phlet revision of “A.A. for the Black/African-American ward to participating at local area events.
Alcoholic”): The final completed draft manuscript has GSO tours and the Friday A.A. meeting remain a high-
been forwarded from the Trustees’ Literature Committee light for many visitors to the General Service Office. In
to the Conference Literature Committee. fact, last year (2023) we welcomed 1,470 visitors and
12 large groups (20 or more members) to GSO. The fol-
“Twelve Concepts Video”: This Americanization of the lowing excerpt from a thank you letter from a member
English version of the A.A. Great Britain whiteboard ani- reflects the sentiment expressed by many who visit the
mation video, with French and Spanish versions, is in office:
the preproduction stage. Selection process for talent for
the English version is in process. Whiteboard animation Thank you for the warm welcome and the insightful tour
tweaks and translations are in process. Timeline for com- of the GSO office. It was truly a pleasure to meet you and
pletion by Fall, 2024. the team and to witness firsthand the remarkable work
that you do. I appreciate the attachment of the most
Staff Services — Sandra W., Director: Bill W. once wrote, recent Box 459 Edition and look forward to reading it.
“without A.A.’s services, we’d often fumble that new
man just coming in the door; without our services we’d Thank you also for the invitation to share information
certainly spoil the main chance of those millions who about the Open A.A. meetings and office tours. I will
don’t yet know.” certainly pass along this invitation to friends who would
The Department of Staff Services provides A.A. ser- benefit from and appreciate such a meaningful experi-
vices to the Fellowship of Alcoholics Anonymous as guid- ence.
ed by the Twelve Steps, Twelve Traditions and Twelve The 2025 International Convention was activated
Concepts for World Service. In addition to its director, in September. Patrick C. (the staff member coordinat-
the department is comprised of one manager, twelve ing the event) and his staff assistant Marissa S. hit the
staff (all who are required to be members of Alcoholics ground running with an official “kick-off” meeting at the
Anonymous) and eleven staff assistants who perform the office, providing GSO employees with an introduction
duties associated with the department’s twelve assign- to the International Convention, timeline of events and
ment desks. Since the 73rd General Service Conference, snapshot of the work ahead of us. With the theme, “90
we welcomed three new staff hires (Kelley C., Ranier L., Years — Language of the Heart,” the 2025 International
and Nick S.) and two staff assistants: Payge N. and Convention promises to be a spectacular event. We hope
Andrew T. to see you there!
Through the collaborative efforts of the staff and staff The following is a snapshot of some of the activities
assistants, administrative support and resource is pro- throughout the year (exclusive of the work related to
vided to the General Service Board, the General Service the voluminous list of projects related to Conference
Conference, and to A.A. World Services, Inc., includ- Advisory actions, such as the pamphlet for the men-
ing AAWS’ Internal Audit, Publishing and Technology/ tal health professional, “Military Outreach Project,”
Communication/Services committees, as well as a vari- Plain Language Big Book, Membership Survey, “A.A.
ety of Board ad hoc and internal committees. at a Glance,” development of the Fourth Edition of the
As one of the pivotal entry points for information on book Alcohólicos Anónimos — Spanish, development
A.A., the department provides one of the main sourc- of the 5th Edition Big Book, Alcoholics Anonymous and
es for sharing GSO’s repository of collected group and updates/revisions to pamphlets “A.A. for the Black and
member experience, responding to correspondence and African-American Alcoholic,” “Questions and Answers
phone calls from the eight regions in the U.S./Canada on Sponsorship,” “Do You Think You’re Different?,”

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focus on the theme “The Three Legacies in the Digital

Era: Our Great Responsibility to the Alcoholic Being
Born Today.”
• 74th General Service Conference — The planning and
coordination of the General Service Conference is
a year-long endeavor. A special note of gratitude to
Diana L. who, working with Language Services and
Publishing, facilitated the successful distribution of
Conference background in all three languages.
In Concept I, near the end of the essay, Bill W. talks
about the transfer of authority that took place at the
Convention in 1954. “Hence it is with a sense of great
security that we old-timers have now fully vested in
A.A.’s General Service Conference the authority for giv-
ing shape — through the labors of its chosen Delegates,
Trustees, and service workers [emphasis added]— to the
destiny that we trust God in His wisdom is holding in
store for all of us.” Through our work and relationship
with the Fellowship, GSO’s Staff Services department is
grateful for the opportunity to fulfill Bill’s vision.
Technology Services — Lorna Graham (nonalcoholic),
Senior Director: The Technology Services department is
an integral part of GSO and aligned with GSO’s business
strategy and day-to-day functions.
The primary goal of the Technology Services depart-
ment is to both improve and support GSO’s ability to
provide service to the Fellowship, which we do through
the following: design, manage and monitor the technical
infrastructure; provide project management expertise;
participate in major software design, development,
and implementation projects; and to provide techni-
cal support to the employees of GSO. The Technology
Services department also provides technical support to
those in the Fellowship who use our applications, spe-
cifically, Fellowship Connection, Translation Licensing
Connection and OnBoard.
The department is also responsible for GSO’s cyber-
“The Twelve Steps Illustrated,” “The Twelve Concepts security and PCI compliance. As such, the Technology
Illustrated,” “Too Young?,” and “A.A. for the Native North Services department is responsible for keeping applica-
American”): tions up to date with the latest versions and all hardware
• CPC — Created a CPC service Card in digital template and software compliant by industry standards; preserv-
format which is available to download for local use. ing the anonymity of our data with tight security; and
The card can be produced as a poster, flyer, distrib- maintaining a healthy physical and digital environment
uted digitally, or added into a presentation. (https:// with anti-virus and intrusion detection programs.
www.aa.org/cpc-service-card-do-you-know-someone- The Technology Services department provides leader-
drinking-problem-were-here-help) ship and expertise to the entire organization on compa-
• Regional Forums — Regional Forums provide a special ny-wide projects, such as the selection and implementa-
opportunity to connect with the Fellowship. In 2023, tion of the new Board (GSB, AAWS and Grapevine) and
forums were held in the East Central, West Central, General Service Conference communication software
Southwest and Northeast Regions. Robust sharing (OnBoard) that will also be used to support the 2024
with thought provoking questions was in abundance. World Service Meeting; design, development and imple-
As always, the “circles of love and service” guided mentation of a new portal (TL Connection) to facilitate
each forum. Final Reports for the 2023 Regional the international translation and licensing processes; the
Forums can be found on aa.org. selection and implementation of a new asset repository
• World Service Meeting — Coordinated by the application to streamline and improve management of
International assignment, the 28th World Service final assets (books, pamphlets, etc.) across GSO; and
Meeting (WSM) will be held in New York and is set for the continued migration of manual processes, e.g.,
October 27-31, 2024. This year, WSM Delegates will Translations and Licensing, to our ERP platform.

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■ Trustees’ Committees and Staff Reports

ARCHIVES on Digital Archives” in the Archives Workbook. The

subsection was last updated about eight years ago and
Trustees’ Report: The trustees’ Archives Committee was
contained outdated information. The committee agreed
established by the General Service Board and held its first
to remove the subsection in the next printing of the
meeting in October 1973. This committee is responsible
Archives Workbook and not refresh the stories. In our
for developing and implementing the policies that govern
discussion, we noted that the Archives Department
services provided by the Archives Department. The com-
Service Material “Digitizing Archival Material Guidelines”
mittee makes recommendations to the General Service
is currently being revised and updated by the Archives
Board on Archives procedures and budget. Through its
group conscience and guided by A.A.’s principles and staff, which will provide helpful guidance to local A.A.
professional standards, the committee undertakes and archivists around processes in relation to digitization of
upholds its responsibility and authority for the mainte- archival materials.
nance and use of the Archives. At each of the quarterly Archival Photographs — The Archives staff requested
meetings, the committee was kept apprised of projects input and guidance from the committee on making pre-
completed by the Archives staff, projected goals for the viously approved archival photographs digitally available
upcoming year, as well as tabulated research inquiries to A.A. members and groups. The printed photographs
handled by the staff. have been provided as a service to A.A. members for
The committee supports the GSO Archives’ com- many years. Following discussion, the committee agreed
mitment to permit access to members of Alcoholics to permit the Archives staff to distribute the photographs
Anonymous and others for research purposes. The as a digital option and add copyright text on each of
committee, since the 73rd General Service Conference, the digital images. The committee was also in favor of
granted permission to twelve researchers to access discontinuing the two sets of twelve photos and instead
unpublished archival material onsite. The permission offering these as individual photos upon request. It was
also included access to archival audio recordings, for noted that the Archives does not engage in selling the
limited use. Each request is carefully considered through photographs but suggests a contribution to defray print-
recommendations from the Archives Director and estab- ing and shipping cost.
lished Archives policies. The permission to conduct
research is granted conditionally on a signed agreement GSO Archives pages on aa.org — The committee discussed
to strictly maintain the anonymity of all members, alive improvement of navigation and linking within the GSO
and deceased, including A.A.’s co-founders. Archives pages on aa.org and requested that the Archives
The committee discussed the 2023 Conference Director gather input from the GSO Communication
Committee on Archives Committee Consideration con- Services department (CSD) on resolving some of the
cerning the suggestion to refresh the subsection “Sharing issues encountered. We were satisfied with the updates

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reported by the CSD and requested that the Archives In March 2023 we launched a new monthly newsletter
Director keep us apprised of future developments and featuring A.A. history-related events for internal distri-
ideas related to Archives pages on aa.org. bution to GSO and GV employees. This endeavor exem-
plifies one of the many ways we serve our Mission and
GSO Archives Audiovisual Preservation Survey — The
Purpose, by promoting knowledge and understanding of
committee engaged in a lengthy discussion regarding the
the history and origins of Alcoholics Anonymous.
Archives department’s “Audiovisual Preservation Survey
Another new project launched in 2023 was the creation
Report.” This report included basic information about the
of a catalog for items held in the Ephemera Collection.
collection, documented concerns on maintaining audio-
Items in this collection include awards, tokens, memora-
visual assets and a phased plan to help inform future
bilia, flags, historical corporate seals from the Alcoholic
decisions. We directed the Archives Director to proceed
Foundation and Works Publishing, and other A.A. relat-
with “Part A” of Phase 1 of the plan and continue to pro-
ed items. There are over 200 unique items identified.
vide us with status updates at future quarterly meetings.
This significant project is being managed by our Special
GSO Archives Deaccession Form — The committee Collections Archivist, who is simultaneously working on
reviewed proposed changes to GSO Archives Deaccession an on-going project of organizing and creating indus-
Form that was initially approved in 2009. Following dis- try-standard Finding-aids for the estimated 147 unique
cussion, the committee accepted the changes to the collections held in the Manuscript Collection.
form. Digital preservation of paper records is an ever-con-
The committee was informed by the Archives Director tinuing, long-term project and there is no shortage of
that the historical footage of the co-founders was added paper records in the Archives! Our newly hired Digital
to the Archives film “Markings on the Journey” and the Archivist is working on refining our digitization preser-
updated video will be available mid-2024. This update vation workflow from ingest to storage and establishing
is in accordance with a 2019 advisory action that read, standards for both born-digital items and digitized mate-
“The 1940s home movie of the co-founders and their rial. Staff have completed an incredible amount of digi-
wives be added to the Archives video ‘Markings on the tizing work this past year. They have organized, scanned,
Journey’ at an estimated cost of $5,000.” and preserved, as appropriate, background documents
We also engaged in discussion around some of the from various trustees’ and Conference committees; doc-
challenges faced by local A.A. Archives in terms of hous- uments from various ad hoc committees of the corporate
ing archives and finances to support these efforts. It was boards; and other paper records. In line with our more
noted that local A.A. Archives are autonomous entities pressing goals, we are primarily focused on processing
and GSO Archives staff provide guidance and shared the increasing backlog of boxes of papers.
experiences accordingly. Another equally significant, high-priority scanning
In the coming year, we look forward to engaging in project staff commenced in 2023 was digitizing a unique
discussions around GSO Archives Classification system collection of Bill W.’s unpublished, personal correspon-
and reviewing and updating the Deed of Gift Form. dence with A.A. members ranging from 1939 through
The committee recognizes the professionalism, dedi- 1962. To date, the Associate Archivist has scanned corre-
cation, and special skills required by the Archives team spondence through 1949, encompassing approximately
and expresses its infinite gratitude for their outstanding 1,000 pages. All original documents are preserved in
efforts to preserve, protect, and share the history of our archival enclosures and transferred to a secured, envi-
beloved Fellowship. ronmentally controlled offsite storage facility.
Reilly K., Chair A much-needed update to the A.A. Timeline on aa.org
was completed mid-2023. We worked on entries for
Staff Report: The Archives staff provides resource 2018 through 2019, these entries were translated and
material and service to A.A. members, researchers, and added to the Timeline with ensuing updates to be accom-
others about A.A. history, responds to worldwide infor- plished in the coming year 2024.
mation requests, and offers professional support to local We worked on updating the Archives Disaster
areas, districts or groups interested in researching their Prevention, Preparedness and Response Plan, which
history. None of the work reported in this report would was forwarded for review by the AAWS Internal Audit
be possible without the assistance of a diligent team of Committee (IAC). The new plan document is dated
experienced archivists, working to ensure that we fulfill 2023-2024. In accordance with the plan document, we
the mission and goals of the GSO Archives. conducted a Facilities Audit for the year 2023. This audit
We continued to respond to inquiries from the world- documents any disasters or incidents, environmental
wide Fellowship and other professionals interested in data of the onsite storage facilities, and quality assurance
A.A.; in 2023, we responded to approximately 1,450 checks around fire safety.
requests for information, utilizing a combination of The assistant archivist, hired in mid-July 2023, has
unpublished primary sources and published material been busily working on several projects including reor-
maintained in the repository. We welcomed new local ganizing and creating an inventory of Archives oversized
archivists and committee chairs serving either in the area flat files, that encompasses images, artwork, posters and
or district position and furnished each individual with an other oversized flat files. The project was initiated to
Archives Workbook, Guidelines, and other resources. obtain more precise intellectual control over and assess

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the preservation and storage needs. The staff was also prudent corporate governance. Under New York State
tasked with the Photograph Reorganization Project that Nonprofit Law, the committee has specific responsibili-
was initiated in August 2023. This is a multi-phase proj- ties that are set forth under the law, some of which are
ect that includes assessing the digital files for quality, stated in this report.
renaming files, adding appropriate descriptive metadata The committee meets at least twice a year with the
and cataloging the digital images in our database. outside independent auditors and GSO and Grapevine
Several new and exciting onsite exhibits were curat- management; separately with the auditor; and in execu-
ed in 2023 through January 2024, designed to convey tive session without the auditor. Typically, the committee
historical knowledge, reveal lesser-known history, or meets in January to plan the financial statement audit
showcase newly acquired collections. Exhibits were and in April to review the audit report. In 2023, the com-
showcased on the following topics: mittee met on January 18 to plan the financial statement
audit, on April 12 to review the financial statement audit
• A history of the publication of the book Twelve Steps report, and on October 11 to review the pension audit
and Twelve Traditions to commemorate the 70th anni- report. In 2024, the committee met on January 11 to
versary of its publication (first published in 1953). plan the financial statement audit and on April 3 and
• Celebrating 85 Years — A.A.’s Big Book (1939 – 2024). April 8 to review the financial statement audit report.
• An exhibit on the tools and methodology on con- The Audit Committee reports to the General Service
ducting research in the Archives, with an interactive Board and reviews such items as audit process, audit
component. results, internal controls, best accounting practices, and
management integrity. The Audit Committee also rec-
In late November 2023, Archives staff engaged in ommends appointment of the auditors to the General
conducting an inventory of the extent of the collection Service Board and the corporate Boards. In 2023, the
for the purpose of estimating its current size and rate Audit Committee conducted a process to request and
of growth of the physical items. This inventory will help evaluate proposals from public accounting firms for the
inform: next five years of financial statement and pension audits.
• Current size of the collection. This proposal resulted in the selection of BDO USA as the
• Estimate the growth of the collection for the next auditor for the audit of the financial statements for 2023
decade. through 2027.
• Make recommendations about storage priorities. Kevin Prior, Chair
A comprehensive report of our findings is currently
COMPENSATION
being compiled, which will be shared with GSO man-
agement, the AAWS Board and the trustees’ Archives Trustees’ Report: The trustees’ Compensation
Committee later in 2024. Committee, formed in 2006 by the General Service Board
In commemoration of American Archives month in (GSB), consists of at least four trustees (with at least one
October, staff launched a series of adventure-filled activ- trustee from AAWS and one trustee from AAGV). As orig-
ities profiling the archives, and engaging GSO and GV inally envisioned, the newly formed committee reflected
employees to voluntarily participate in weekly activities. an initiative-taking measure to assist our GSB in fulfilling
Throughout the year, the Archives Director and Special its fiduciary obligation of prudent corporate governance
Collections Archivist participated in several in-person and (i.e., the processes, structures, and practices for effective
teleconferencing activities such as service workshops, oversight of our affiliate corporations).
the National A.A. Archives Workshop, area Archives The GSB Compensation Committee provides over-
meetings and other online service events. sight regarding A.A. World Services, Inc. (AAWS), and
Since the beginning of the year, staff accessioned AA Grapevine, Inc. (AAGV) compensation policies and
about 325 novel materials for permanent preservation. practices, and advises the GSB on overall compensation
Most of these materials include new printings of AAWS policies for the two corporations A.A. World Services,
literature. Inc. (AAWS) and AA Grapevine, Inc. (AAGV).
Finally, we extend gratitude to those members and The two operating corporations, AAWS and AAGV, are
others who have generously donated material to the each responsible for their own respective compensation
Archives within the past twelve months. policies and administration, being mindful of the overall
Michelle Mirza, Archivist compensation philosophy of the General Service Board.
The GSB Compensation Committee will specifically
AUDIT review the total compensation paid to senior executives
of the two corporations annually.
Trustees’ Report: The trustees’ Audit Committee, formed The GSB Compensation Committee works with the
by the General Service Board in 2003, is composed of a AAWS and AAGV Boards to obtain professional consul-
minimum of three and a maximum of five trustees who tant services, as needed, to comply with nonprofit corpo-
are appointed by the chair of the General Service Board. ration federal and state laws and regulations.
The committee was created to assist the General The GSB is mindful of A.A.’s spiritual principles
Service Board in fulfilling its fiduciary obligation of and believes it is not wise for the GSB Compensation

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related to its scope. In recent years, additional interim

virtual meetings have been added.
The TGSCC is also responsible for reviewing theme,
presentation/discussion/workshop topics, assisting the
secretary in developing format and content of the
Conference workshops, improving the participation of
all Conference members, scheduling, reviewing the
agenda, assigning the first term delegate members on
each Conference committee, and communicating with all
Conference members.
The TGSCC annually appoints a subcommittee on
Conference Improvements (SCI) which is responsible to
review feedback on the evaluation forms, make any need-
Committee to have veto powers or final approval of indi- ed changes, and work with the Conference Coordinator to
vidual operating corporation’s compensation programs develop a Conference week schedule. During the 3-year
or the compensation of senior executives (even though Equitable Distribution of Workload (EDW) pilot the TCGSC
these powers are sometimes found in compensation has also appointed a subcommittee on EDW to adminis-
committees of other organizations). ter the pilot approved by the 71st GSC and complete the
The Compensation Committee reports to the GSB and distribution of agenda items that are forwarded to the
reviews and, working closely with the Director of Human Conference, during the pilot this subcommittee collected
Resources, advises the GSB on such items as overall feedback and adjusted the process where needed. The
philosophies and A.A. World Services, Inc. (AAWS) and EDW subcommittee provided annual progress reports
AA Grapevine, Inc. (AAGV) policies. The Compensation and a final report to the Conference Committee on Policy
Committee serves in an advisory capacity with no deci- and Admissions. Taken together, the EDW and SCI sub-
sion-making authority regarding any individual’s total committees endeavored to provide opportunities for all
compensation. Rather, the committee monitors compen- Delegates to participate in the General Service Conference
sation policies and oversees executive compensation and process more fully and equitably.
ensures adherence to good corporate practices, compli- This year the TCGSC was also tasked to implement
ance with federal and state laws, and application of our the GSB inventory in accordance with the advisory action
spiritual principles. from the 73rd GSC, this was completed and will be report-
This year the Committee worked with consultants ed on by the Interim Chair of the GSB at the 74th GSC;
SmithPilot to understand market analysis as it relates to and develop a plan for a conference inventory to occur
our salaries and assessed executive compensation for at the 75th GSC for consideration by the Conference
the General Manager, CFO, Director of Publishing, Senior Committee on Agenda. An additional subcommittee,
Director of Technology Services, and GV Publisher. In (Inventories Subcommittee), and two separate inventory
August, the AAWS Human Resources team will conduct a working groups were formed for these purposes.
review of all AAWS and AAGV job descriptions and com- The committee met seven (7) times since the
pensation benchmarks to ensure alignment with the 50th 73rd General Service Conference until January 2024.
percentile of the labor market for pay rates. The Affiliate Additionally, to support subcommittee work, 28 meetings
Corporations will adjust pay levels or ranges as needed to were also held: Equitable Distribution of Workload seven
stay in line with our Compensation Philosophy. (7); Conference Improvements six (6); and Inventory six
Sister Judith Karam, Chair (6), which participated in the GSB Working Group one (1):
and the Conference Inventory Working Group eight (8).
CONFERENCE Composition, Scope, and Procedures (CSP): The committee
asked a committee member to review the CSP and minor
Trustees’ Report: The trustees’ General Service
Conference Committee (TGSCC) was first established as editorial changes were proposed and adopted to reflect
a subcommittee of the Policy Committee of the General current practices.
Service Board in 1973. In July 1974, it became a full 2024 Conference budget: The committee reviewed the
standing committee. At that time, primary responsibili- 2024 Conference budget and agreed to incorporate
ties included determining Conference Themes, reviewing cost savings of approximately $112,000 suggested in
suggestions for participation by Conference Members the progress report from the Conference Improvements
during the week, and formatting workshops. Subcommittee. The TCGSC chair sought input on these
Since that time, the committee generally meets three proposed changes from the Conference Committees on
times each year and the responsibilities of the committee Agenda, Policy and Admissions, and Report and Charter
have grown over time to be concerned primarily with during the October feedback meetings prior to finalizing
planning the annual General Service Conference includ- these plans. The committee agreed to forward the 2024
ing: implementing related advisory actions and develop- Conference budget, with the cost savings, to the trustees’
ing recommendations to the General Service Board (GSB) Finance and Budgetary Committee.

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First year delegate assignment to Conference committees: Proposed agenda item form updates:
The committee heard from the Conference Coordinator • Reflects a pending deadline based on the outcome of
about the selection criteria for assigning delegates the 2024 General Service Conference’s conclusion of
to Conference committees, and the custom software the Equitable Distribution of Workload (EDW) three-
developed for this purpose. Delegate assignments to year pilot.
conference committees were completed by the chair, • Describes that the General Service Conference is a
vice-chair, and conference coordinator with the support year-round cooperative effort.
of the software developer.
• Provides guidance and resources to clarify what sub-
Rebalancing first-year and second-year delegates on missions rise to the policy level.
Conference committees: In response to a consideration • Encourages participation through the local area struc-
from the 2023 Conference Committee on Corrections, ture.
the committee adopted a plan that balances the assign-
ment of new delegates to a Conference committee to Committee discussion points on the distribution of the
allow for a more even rotation of panels on each commit- Proposed agenda item form:
tee and will commence with Panel 75 delegates. • Raised concerns whether the wide online distribution
Simple majority Item from the 73rd General Service of the form could create avoidance by the Fellowship
Conference: The committee discussed a Simple Majority to go through the assemblies and service structure.
item from the 2023 General Service Conference to con- • Expressed their support of the participation in the
sider allowing alternate delegates access to the same Conference agenda process and agreed to use the
Conference materials as sitting delegates, except for traditional method to distribute the form to the Area
materials shared during Conference week and took no level through the Conference Members and Service
action. The committee noted that a similar proposed Assignment.
agenda item was discussed during a feedback call with • The General Service Office provides the form upon
the conference committee on Policy and Admissions in request.
October, which they express no interest in discussing at • Previous articles placed in the Box 459 newsletter
the 74th General Service Conference. It was noted that and Grapevine and La Viña magazines communicated
taking any action on this item would require disregarding information about the year ‘round Conference process
the substantial unanimity of the 73rd GSC. and clarified what a policy-level idea is.
Final Conference Report: As a result of the 2023 Advisory Survey on holding the 77th GSC outside of New York:
Action, the anonymity-protected 2023 Conference Final There was an additional committee consideration from
Reports was posted on aa.org. the Policy and Admissions Committee requesting that
Sharing Sessions twice a year: The committee noted the “the trustees’ General Service Conference Committee
2023 Advisory Action that “to foster unity, trust, and conduct a survey of current General Service Conference
transparency in the Fellowship, the members of the members regarding the spiritual implications of holding
General Service Conference meet outside of the annual the Conference outside the New York area. An addition-
meeting for general sharing sessions at least two times al option to explore in the survey could be alternating
per year utilizing virtual meeting technology. The General between holding the Conference in the New York area
Service Board Chair and Delegate Chair will set the date and the Akron/Cleveland area. The committee looks for-
and time as well as determine what issues currently ward to reviewing the survey results or a progress report
facing the Fellowship would be chosen as topics” and at the 74th General Service Conference.” The TSGSC sent
affirmed that is being coordinated by the General Service a memo requesting this topic be added to the agenda of
the Videoconference sharing session in August, which
Board chair, delegate chair, and the general manager.
was not done during this meeting due to time limitations.
Creating a video or communication about PAI submis- In consideration of the fact that there were several other
sions: The committee agreed to forward to the Equitable surveys and requests for delegates to collect sharing
Distribution of Workload subcommittee a consideration already in progress and noting that the GSC sites have
from the 2023 Conference Committee on Policy and been contracted to 2026, this was deferred. This com-
Admissions to create a simple video or other communi- mittee consideration from the 73rd GSC will be included
cation reinforcing the ideas that PAIs can be submitted in the July 2024 TCGSC agenda.
year-round and can reflect the outcome of a group con-
Ongoing work or proposed agenda item(s) forwarded to
science rather than a petition or suggestion box.
Conference Committees:
While a video project was not started by the staff sec-
retary, updates were made to the introduction section 2024 Conference Committee on Agenda:
of the proposed agenda item form to communicate the 1. The 2025 Conference Inventory Plan.
ideas from the 2023 consideration by the Policy and Note: The committee expressed their gratitude for the
Admissions Committee. Also, the committee discussed Conference Inventory Planning Committee who atten-
the distribution of the proposed agenda item form: tively discussed the scope, structure, and logistics to

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develop a comprehensive inventory plan, timeline, 6. The feedback report of the Delegate Chairs on the
and cost estimate to complete a Conference Inventory quarterly communications.
at the 75th General Service Conference. Note: Based on the feedback received on quarterly
2. A final report from the Inventory Subcommittee. communications, the trustees requested a clarification
Note: The committee received progress reports about the purpose of the October feedback call be
from the Inventory Subcommittee from June 2023 included in the handout “Information and Suggestions
through January 2024 that included the activities of for Conference Committee Chairpersons.”
the GSB Inventory and Conference Inventory Plan.
2024 Conference Committee on Policy and Admissions:
Additionally, the Working Group composition includ-
1. A proposed agenda item, “The request to revise
ed: one delegate from each region (four from Panel procedures for electing Delegate chairperson, and
72 and 73 respectively), one non-trustee director, one Committee chairpersons. (PAI 10).”
GSO employee, one Grapevine employee, and three
General Service Trustees. The committee agreed to 2. The Equitable Distribution of Workload (EDW) final
select Conference Member participants by lot, except report that included a summary of each pilot year,
for appointing the Nontrustee Director (1) and the a survey summary of Conference Members on their
Trustees (3) based on their service on the Inventory experience with the EDW pilot and provided consider-
ations/recommendations about the overall pilot.
Subcommittee. The committee expressed their grati-
tude for the GSB Working Group who proposed pos- Note: The 2020 Conference-Approved three-year pilot
sible GSB inventory questions. The committee noted plan of Equitable Distribution of Workload (EDW)
the Inventory’s subcommittee’s work to participate in requested that current Conference Members should
selecting Conference Inventory Planning Committee have broad-ranging discussion pre-Conference. This
members and also participated as members to devel- meeting will be held by videoconference prior to the
op the Conference Inventory plan. In addition to Conference Week.
developing the scope and audience of the Inventory, 3. A memo update from the General Manager on Site
the CIPC members discussed the number and type of Selection status.
questions, reporting, methodologies, and follow-up. Note: The location of the 2027 General Service
3. A final report from the Conference Improvements Conference is on hold pending results from the GSB
Subcommittee. Location Plus Ad-Hoc Committee.
Note: The committee received progress reports from
2024 Conference Committee on Report and Charter:
the Conference Improvements Subcommittee from
1. A request to discuss if the practice of communicating
October 2023 through January 2024. The subcom- items that failed to achieve substantial unanimity as
mittee reviewed all the 2023 evaluations results from suggestions is still desirable, and if the Conference
Conference Members and discussed opportunities. would like to continue the reporting of these items
The summary of the improvement opportunities was separately from other items that did not carry from a
based on the 73rd General Service Conference evalu- General Service Conference.
ations, and efforts to control costs. Opportunities to
improve daily workflow and end times were noted in Note: The committee felt that sentiment within the
Fellowship may have shifted since the 1986 Advisory
the Conference Week Schedule with cost savings of
Action. Additional sharing by the committee on
approximately $112,000. Additionally, the Conference
“Recommendations Passed by Simple Majority” was
Coordinator and chair of the trustees’ Conference
included as background that included consideration
Committee shared information about changes to the
to:
Conference Week schedule during a February 2024,
Delegate only videoconference meeting. • Concerns raised by Conference members and A.A.
members.
4. The new streamlined format of the 2023 Conference
evaluation summary. • Ambiguity of the Conference Group Conscience when
a recommendation that fails by a Simple Majority is
Note: The summary included cost savings to give automatically forwarded to a Trustees’ Committee as
greater context to some of the items that were being a consideration.
changed.
• Unintentional fostering disunity within the Fellowship.
5. The 2024 evaluation questionnaires.
• Final Conference Report is used to clearly communi-
Note: The Conference Improvement Subcommittee cate the Group Conscience from the General Service
updated the questionnaire with opportunities for Conference
Conference Members to share feedback about chang-
• The Simple Majority section in the Final Report could
es implemented to the Conference Week Schedule,
lead to misunderstandings and confusion.
and to weigh in on proposed future changes such
as more opportunities to have dinner on their own. Items Related to the Conference Process and Cycle: In an
The subcommittee also reviewed the 2024 evaluation effort to foster common expectations and commitments
questionnaire for Observers. the TCGSC recommended the adoption of the following

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timeline for developing background materials for the meetings for joint committees, Remote Communities
74th General Service Conference to the GSB, who voted and 1728 meetings prior to the Conference Week. As
in favor and expressed support for mutually understood a result, additional time was available for Committee
timelines: Reports, General Sharing Sessions, Questions and shar-
1. Any completed items that are intended to be Conference ing related to the Board reports.
background be submitted to their committee secretary General Service Conference Banquet: The discussion about
as soon as it is available or by November 13. the Sunday Opening banquet began in January 2023 with
2. All Conference bound work from trustee committees a focus on fiscal responsibility, guiding principles, and
such as progress reports, plans, or drafts be submitted logistical and financial concerns such as the number of
no later than November 13, except when: attendees at the Sunday’s GSB A.A. banquet could limit
3. If the item(s) will not be available by November 13, the potential hotel venues.
submit a list of those item(s) with a completion date The committee and the General Manager completed
to the Conference Coordinator. a review of invitees and the consideration of any need-
ed changes, including potential policy development, to
Note: The committee agreed to have the Conference
ensure that sufficient time to communicate any changes
Materials timeline be a standing Committee item.
made that may impact the banquet attendance at the
Delivery of Conference Background: The committee dis- 74th General Service Conference. Additional feedback
cussed the progress and timely delivery of the Conference will be sought from Conference members this year on
Background materials in English, French, and Spanish replacing the banquet dinner with coffee and dessert
and agreed to make this topic a standing committee prior to the AA meeting.
item. The committee appreciated the harmonious partic- Backup Plan for the 74th GSC: The committee felt the
ipation and collaboration to meet the needs of delivering backup plan developed last year would support participa-
Conference Background materials to the 74th General tion of Conference Members at the 74th General Service
Service Conference. The committee considered several Conference. A plan was distributed that outlined how
questions raised by the Language Services Director and participation, discussion, and voting will occur through a
offered the following suggestions. “fourth floor microphone,” via videoconference meeting
• “Committee Only” materials should be translated into space, if a Conference member cannot physically be in
the delegate’s preferred language, noting the import- the main session room. Information about masks, testing
ant work done by the conference committees. kits, and reporting illness or injury was also included in
• During the Conference Week, Committee reports and the backup plan.
floor actions should be translated into the delegate’s Conference Communications Plan: The committee
preferred language. reviewed a Plan that resets timelines for Conference
• Establish a common understanding of expectations members receiving key communications. The committee
and scope between the committee, AAWS, and agreed that the following documents be distributed to
Language Services Department to support mutual Conference Members regarding the status of Proposed
respect between the highly collaborative effort to sup- Agenda Items and the GSC Agenda each conference year:
port the Conference Process. Document Delivery Timeline Content
• Communications were sent to trustees’ Committee PAIs forwarded to GSC
chairs and Committee secretaries about submitting Following the Q4
Ongoing work
materials as soon as possible. 1. Preliminary GSC Agenda Standing Items
Oct GSB
New items from Trustee
• The Feb.16-23 deadlines to distribute Conference committees
Background in three languages simultaneously and EDW Distributions
agreed that this deadline should involve those con- PAIs forwarded to GSC
ference materials that are widely distributed in the Following the Q1 Ongoing Items
2. Final GSC Agenda
Jan GSB Standing Items
Fellowship, followed by the delivery of Committee New items from Trustee
Only materials. committees
• The background for thirteen Conference committees 1-2 weeks after
was made available simultaneously in three languages the Conference
List of PAIs Not
Background
during February 16-23, 2024. 3. PAIs Not Forwarded to GSC
is distributed
Forwarded to GSC with
rationale statements.
• Additionally, the committee agreed that there is a to Conference
need for timely distribution of the Conference Manual Members
materials, to be distributed March 14-23.
The committee held a wide-ranging discussion about
74th GSC Week Schedule: Additional time for Conference how to communicate the status of Proposed Agenda
Members to share on the topic of the writings of the Items (PAIs), and effective timelines to communicate
co-founders was scheduled to occur before the com- the General Service Conference (GSC) Agenda. The com-
mittees begin their deliberations. Several workday flow mittee agreed that the audience should be Conference
improvements included scheduling videoconference Members who can further communicate to their regions

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and areas and support local planning of service assem- to a group conscience in the U.S. and Canada.
blies and events. A.A. members are encouraged to submit topics through
their area structures for consideration by the Conference.
Other Topics:
Suggested topics may be forwarded to a trustees’ com-
Conference Committee Meetings: The committee discussed mittee for consideration and, where appropriate, referred
the need to develop best practices on how vendors directly to a Conference committee. Occasionally topics
and office resources are used to support Conference are submitted that are more appropriately under the
committees and requested information be brought to purview of either the General Service Board, AAWS or
their July 2024 meeting. Additionally, the committee Grapevine Boards. These items are accordingly forward-
requested scheduling the delegate chair orientation prior ed to those boards for their attention.
to December when the assignment of new delegates to
The Conference coordinator is responsible for:
Conference committees occurs and include best practic-
es on the frequency of Conference committee meetings. • Serving as secretary to the Conference Agenda
The committee felt that best practices could support Committee and the trustees’ Committee on the
meeting the escalating demands to the budget, staffing General Service Conference;
resources, delegates’ schedules, and how these addi- • Assembling suggestions for the Conference theme,
tional meetings are reported back to the General Service presentation/discussion and workshop topics that
Conference. are reviewed by the Conference Agenda Committee,
which makes selections that are recommended to the
Timing and process for registering elected delegates and
Conference for approval;
alternates: The committee received an update from the
Conference Assignment that the system previously used • Working with the GSO staff and general manager
placeholders for the elected panel of delegates, but this on planning and coordinating each phase of the
was causing issues outside the office and was removed in Conference program, agenda and scheduling;
support of the third legacy election process. • Working with the Language Services Department
While the committee noted the proactive adminis- to schedule, assemble and coordinate translation of
trative effort, they expressed concerns with the use of Conference material;
placeholders, noting an issue from a local area that had • Working with the Publishing department on the sum-
not held its election. The committee felt that addressing mer edition of Box 4-5-9 and the print and anonym-
this issue would support the Third Legacy election pro- ity-protected digital copies of the Conference Final
cess and recognize that delegates serve until December Report;
31. The committee requested that delegate information
• Administrator of the OnBoard software for the distri-
about incoming panels not be made available before
bution of Conference material to Conference mem-
rotation.
bers, meetings, and related surveys.
Delegate Chair Orientation • Receives the proposed agenda items.
The chair of TCGSC participated in the Delegate Chair Diana L.
orientation and noted feedback and requests to do an
initial orientation sooner (shortly post-Conference) to
prepare for year ‘round activities, and a second orien- COOPERATION WITH THE PROFESSIONAL
COMMUNITY/TREATMENT AND ACCESSIBILITIES
tation to prepare for attendance at board weekend and
fulfilling the role of Conference Committee chair at the Trustees’ Report: The trustees’ committees on
GSC. It was further noted that the EDW report considers Cooperation with the Professional Community and
the possibility of inviting delegate chairs to the October Treatment Facilities were combined by action of the
Board weekend where PAIs are discussed instead of the General Service Board in April 1998. In August of 2009,
January board weekend where this previously took place the trustees’ committee expanded its scope to include
and that any changes made would require review of del- service to Special Needs-Accessibilities Committee and
egate chair orientation scheduling. It is requested that the oversight of Special Needs literature. The title of the com-
Conference Coordinator and TCGSC further discuss this mittee was changed to Cooperation with the Professional
after the 74th GSC when it is known if EDW will continue Community/Treatment/Special Needs-Accessibilities in
beyond the 3-year pilot or not. 2009. In November 2015, “Special Needs” was removed
Carolyn W., Chair from the committee’s name and throughout the commit-
tee’s Composition, Scope and Procedure.
Staff Report: The Conference coordinator is the GSO The trustees’ Committee on Cooperation with the
contact for General Service Conference members. The Professional Community/Treatment and Accessibilities
Conference process continues throughout the year and (CPC/TA) is responsible for implementing pending adviso-
the coordinator corresponds regularly with delegates and ry actions of the General Service Conference, developing
alternate delegates who cooperate to make the annual recommendations for the General Service Conference if
Conference responsive to the needs of the Fellowship. appropriate, providing the tools to reach the professional
The annual meeting of the General Service Conference, community, treatment, accessibility and remote commu-
which first met in April 1951, is the closest thing A.A. has nities with an interest in fostering the kind of attitudes

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that were popular with professionals reflecting inclusiv-

ity; “Hispanic Woman in A.A.,” “A.A. for the Black and
African American Alcoholic” and “LGBTQ Alcoholics in
A.A.” The committee expressed excitement about the
increase of AA Grapevine materials being included in
the materials at the exhibits and volunteers staffing the
events sharing the included materials are popular with
the professionals attending the events. At the October
meeting, the committee offered suggestions for specific
events to attend to broaden the array of professionals we
inform about our program of recovery and encouraged
the desk to continue to explore these events focusing on
a breadth of professions.
• In January 2024, the committee noted that the 2024
exhibit calendar is under review to reduce costs and to
focus on identifying effective expenditures. The com-
mittee agreed on the concept of attending profession-
al events as presenters or workshop leaders to better
inform professionals about our program of recovery
and Traditions. Short-term goals are to focus on pre-
senting to corrections professionals in the second
half of 2024 in a coordinated effort with the trustees’
Corrections Committee.
The committee suggested that the staff secretary
develop presentation materials that include graphics
without narrative as a template that can be adapted to
present to other professional groups. The committee
looks forward to a progress report at the July 2024 meet-
that allow A.A. to better reach the still-suffering alcoholic. ing.
The trustees’ Committee on Cooperation with the LinkedIn — Following the 2018 Advisory Action and
Professional Community/Treatment and Accessibilities committee consideration for creating a LinkedIn page,
met three times since the 2023 General Service the committee continued to review progress on the
Conference. LinkedIn page. The committee continued to note the use-
fulness of the LinkedIn page to share information about
Activities over the past year have included: A.A. and resources with professionals.
Cooperation with the Professional Community (CPC): In July 2023, the committee discussed use of videos
“A.A. in Your Community pamphlet” — The July 2023 on the platform and was advised by the Communications
committee reviewed the 2023 Conference Committee Services Department (CSD) that the current AAWS poli-
on Cooperation with the Professional Community con- cy does not permit posting videos and is under review.
sideration that the pamphlet be approved with minor In October, the CSD followed up on the July discussion
editorial changes resulting in the pamphlet’s publication reporting that the AAWS Technology/Communication/
and availability on aa.org in October 2023. Services (TCS) Committee is exploring a wider conversa-
tion about creating a policy for posting videos to social
Review development of a pamphlet for Mental Health media platforms and will continue to provide updates as
Professionals — Following the 2021 Conference they continue to develop that policy. In January 2024, the
Committee on CPC advisory action “That the trustees’ committee received and update from the CSD that the
CPC/T-A Committee develop a pamphlet directed to department has explored resources that will expand the
mental health professionals…”, the committee reviewed account’s reach, using the tools LinkedIn offers mindful
the continuing progress by the staff secretary, and com- of our A.A. Traditions and how we present our message
mittee members to develop material for a draft pam- to the professionals.
phlet. The committee recommended that the materials
CPC Kit and Workbook — In October 2023, the com-
gathered to date be forwarded to the AAWS Publishing mittee noted updates offered by the Trustees’ CPC/T-A
Department. At the January meeting, the Publishing Committee and the 2023 Conference Committee on
Department provided an update noting a working title CPC have been incorporated into the kit. The commit-
and the committee looks forward to a progress report or tee noted the pamphlet “A Member’s-Eye View of A.A.”
draft pamphlet at the July 2024 meeting. has been removed from the kit per the Conference
CPC Exhibits Update — In July 2023 the committee noted Committee on CPC as it may appear outdated and less
the experience the staff secretary gained attending a effective for providing information about A.A. to the pro-
national professional exhibit and reporting publications fessional community. The committee noted that the sug-

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gestions and revisions to the CPC Kit and Workbook have Proposed Agenda Items (PAI) for the 2024 Conference —
been forwarded to the AAWS Publishing Department and The committee discussed a proposed agenda item to
are in the process of translation before being posted to bring out of retirement the pamphlet “Three Talks to
the aa.org website and printed. Medical Societies by Bill W.” and took no action. The
In January the committee received an update on committee noted there was no widely expressed need
the CPC Kit and Workbook, noting that the revisions at this time and that the content is not useful as a CPC
submitted by the 2023 Conference Committee on CPC tool. The committee recognized the love and devotion
have been forwarded to AAWS Publishing and are in the many members of the Fellowship feel for these historical
process of being translated into French and Spanish. The pieces and that a watermarked copy of retired pamphlets
committee looks forward to a progress report at the July for personal use — not to be distributed — are available
2024 meeting. from Archives upon request.
The committee discussed a proposed agenda item
CPC service card — In October 2023 the committee was
to develop a pamphlet with Bill W.’s Basic Concepts of
informed that the final draft of the CPC service card has Recovery with minor editorial updates for the purpose
been sent to AAWS Publishing and the card will be made of PI/CPC committee work and took no action. The com-
available to the Fellowship on aa.org. The card went live mittee noted there was no widely expressed need from
on aa.org in January 2024. professionals for such a pamphlet at this time. The com-
Review effectiveness of CPC videos on aa.org — In October mittee also noted the cost of producing a pamphlet and
2023 the committee discussed ways to update the videos that there exists in our literature other ways to inform
focused for professionals and what approaches should be professionals about these concepts of recovery.
considered concerning the content, cost, and other fac-
Treatment:
tors that would influence the development of new CPC
videos. The committee noted that the language used is Bridging the Gap pamphlet — In July 2023, the committee
changing and suggested that staff consider content that made suggestions for edits to the pamphlet that were
focuses on “pre-professionals” who are likely to view the incorporated into the current draft. In October 2023,
video, not doctors or lawyers, but medical assistants, the committee agreed to forward the draft pamphlet
paralegals, and support staff to the professionals. The to the 2024 Conference Committee on Treatment and
Accessibilities for review.
committee agreed to communicate future suggestions to
the staff to keep the project fully informed. Bridging the Gap service material — After discussion at the
In January 2024, the committee reviewed the update July 2023 meeting, the committee suggested edits for the
on a proposal to revise the three CPC videos on aa.org. Guidelines on Bridging the Gap and service pieces “A.A.
The committee requested that the term “pre-profession- Temporary Contact/Bridging the Gap Request — Inside”
als” be replaced with “para-professionals” to ensure that (F-183) and “A.A. Temporary Contact/Bridging the Gap
we are including those who work alongside the profes- Volunteer — Outside” (F-184). The updated drafts were
sionals in supporting roles, members of the professional presented at the October 2023 meeting and the commit-
staff, offices, etc. along with students, and other future tee agreed to forward to the 2024 Conference Committee
on Treatment and Accessibilities for review.
professionals as part of the target audience. The com-
mittee noted the estimated production costs appear Treatment Committee Kit and Workbook — Editorial sug-
reasonable. gestions from the staff secretary presented at the July
The committee agreed to forward to the 2024 2023 meeting were incorporated along with editorial
Conference Committee on CPC the proposal to revise all suggestions from the committee. At the October 2023
three CPC videos. meeting, the committee made no additional changes.
The updated Treatment Workbook is in the process of
Review F-2 “Information on Alcoholics Anonymous” — translation and will be added to the website as soon as
In the January 2024 meeting, the committee reviewed possible.
F-2 “Information on Alcoholics Anonymous” and dis-
cussed if it is a relevant and effective piece for profes- Review of treatment material for effectiveness and rele-
vance — The video “Hope: Alcoholics Anonymous”, the
sionals. The committee noted that the overall appear-
pamphlet “A.A. in Treatment Settings” (P-27), and the
ance of the one-pager seemed cluttered and incon-
flyer “Where do I go from here?” (F-4) were reviewed
sistent; and suggested that consideration be given
at the October committee meeting for their current
to adding graphics and developing a more modern
effectiveness and relevance. The committee noted these
appearance. The committee also noted that other A.A.
materials felt outdated and agreed to forward discussion
Conference-approved literature has similar messaging, questions to evaluate the effectiveness and relevance
and that consideration should be given to whether the of the materials to the 2024 Conference Committee on
piece should be repurposed or retired. The committee Treatment and Accessibilities
agreed to continue discussions at the July 2024 meet-
ing and asked the staff secretary to provide samples of Accessibilities:
F-2 revised to reflect their suggestions to help inform The Military Outreach Project (formerly known as the
the discussion. Military audio interviews) — At the July 2023 meeting,

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the scope and responsibilities of the subcommittee ed resources lists for both Remote Communities and the
working on this project were decided. The subcommittee Elder Community and agreed to forward to the 2024
and staff secretary selected audio files from the military Conference Committee on Treatment and Accessibilities
audio project to post on aa.org and other channels and for their review and suggestions.
developed a plan to outreach to military leadership. Quebec Sign Language (LSQ) Announcement/Press Release
Since then, ten audio interviews have been edited and — In 2022, the pamphlet “Access to A.A.: Members
posted to aa.org. The staff secretary plans to edit and Share on Overcoming Barriers” (P-83) was translated
publish twelve more audio interviews in 2024. The com- into LSQ. In January 2024, the committee expressed
mittee voted to ask trustees’ Nominating Committee to support for the creation of a press release and LSQ
approve ACM positions to expand this Project consistent video to announce that this resource is available to the
with the 73rd Conference Committee Action Item to vet- Fellowship. A similar announcement was created for the
erans. After approval from Nominating, the search for ASL version of the Big Book (link to ASL video).
two appointed committee members to support further
Kerry Meyer, Chair
outreach to military members through the A.A. service
structure and communication with military officials Staff Report: Experience indicates that many profession-
began and is in process as of the writing of this report. als are aware of A.A., yet relatively few know what A.A.
The Communication Services Department plans to cre- is and what it is not. It appears that even fewer have
ate a landing page on the aa.org website for the military been to an “open” A.A. meeting. The staff member on
audio interviews in 2024. the Cooperation with the Professional Community (CPC)
Inventory of Accessibilities-related A.A. and AA GV/LV assignment, along with an assistant, provides infor-
resources and outreach — At the October 2023 meeting, mation about A.A. and facilitates communication with
the committee reviewed the report of A.A. publications those outside A.A. who may have direct contact with the
that currently address accessibilities issues and agreed still-suffering alcoholic through their professional work.
to forward this inventory to the 2024 Conference The CPC coordinator replies to inquiries from profes-
Committee on Treatment and Accessibilities. The com- sionals across the U.S. and Canada via telephone, email,
mittee is seeking guidance from the Fellowship and the and the A.A. website. The goal is to connect these profes-
Conference on the effectiveness of our current commu- sionals with local CPC committees to further their under-
nication channels and what further efforts can be made standing of Alcoholics Anonymous, our Twelve Steps,
to carry the message to those facing barriers. and Twelve Traditions. The local committees respond
Carrying the message to those with intellectual or informa- with offers to send clients to meetings, share literature
tion-processing challenges — In October 2023, the com- in professional settings, and other means to assure that
mittee reviewed a report of A.A. publications and service A.A. resources are available.
material that could be updated to address members with The CPC assignment arranges for the distribution of
intellectual or information-processing challenges. The service materials, presentations, and letter templates
committee suggested the staff secretary gather shared in English, French, and Spanish. The CPC coordinator
experience from the Fellowship, including reaching out strives to ensure that all the service materials are up to
to ICYPAA for an archive recording of their workshop date and available to local committees. The desk recent-
on A.A. members and neurodivergence. The committee ly launched the CPC Service Card on aa.org for local
agreed to forward the report to the 2024 Conference committees to download and customize for their service
Committee on Treatment and Accessibilities. work. The assignment coordinates in-person attendance
of A.A. at national professional conferences where local
Guidelines for Remote Communities — In July 2023, the
committee members interact with professionals to fur-
committee began to review the “A.A Guidelines for
ther education of A.A.
Remote Communities” and provided suggested edits
The CPC coordinator serves as a liaison or represen-
to the staff secretary. In October 2023, the committee
tative to organizations in Canada and the U.S. such as
reviewed and agreed to the updates with minor edits.
the Advisory Council of the National Institute for Alcohol
The guidelines have been translated and added to aa.org
Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), and, when requested,
as of February 2024.
by other Twelve Steps Fellowships. Communication with
Accessibilities Kit and Workbook — In July 2023, the professionals through the newsletter About A.A. contin-
committee reviewed edits made to the Accessibilities ues with the upcoming Summer 2024 issue focusing on
workbook and kit that arose from Conference committee the International Convention in Vancouver, B.C. in 2025.
considerations 2019-2022. In addition to these updates, Our LinkedIn page currently has over 3,500 follow-
further edits were suggested. In October 2023, the ers, posting at least twice per month information about
committee agreed to forward the updates to the 2024 A.A. and our message of recovery, focusing on stories
Conference Committee on Treatment and Accessibilities. and topics that relate to the professional community.
The updated workbook has been translated and pub- The assignment has forwarded content to the AAWS
lished online. Publishing Department to prepare an initial draft of the
Review Remote Communities and Elder Community Resource pamphlet for the Mental Health Professional as recom-
Lists — In October 2023, the committee reviewed updat- mended by the 2021 Conference Committee on CPC.

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The staff member along with the assistant welcomes Review Composition, Scope and Procedures:
newly appointed Area and District CPC chairs and sup- The committee reviewed and approved the suggested
ports their efforts to carry the message to professionals revisions to the Composition, Scope and Procedures.
in their local communities. The committee recommended to the General Service
Michael R. Board that item #2 of the Scope section be changed to:
Staff Report: The overall purpose of the Treatment/ Developing materials to assist A.A. members in Twelfth
Accessibilities and Remote Communities staff assign- Step work in all correctional settings. These materials
ment is to share A.A. and service committee experience include suggestions for cooperating with correctional
and information through literature, activity updates administrators and personnel in order to hold A.A.
and other communications. Area, district and inter- meetings in facilities, for “sponsoring” A.A. groups in
group committee chairs for Treatment/Accessibilities and all correctional settings, and for providing prerelease
Remote Communities currently receive communications sponsorship information.
from this assignment. And that the last paragraph of the Scope be changed to:
We currently communicate with 169 Treatment All these activities draw upon and are enhanced by
committees, 87 Accessibilities committees (including 9 shared experience provided by members volunteering in
Cooperation with the Elder Community committees) and local institutions, committees, and correctional facilities.
24 Remote Communities committees.
New chairs receive welcome letters, workbooks, ser- Note: This recommendation was approved by the GSB at
vice-related materials, pertinent Grapevine issues, and their Q4 2023 meeting.
service kits for their position and committee. Shared Experience on Virtual Meetings:
Most of the information that committees seek can An additional Committee Consideration from the 72nd
be read on or printed from GSO’s A.A. website (www. Conference Committee on Corrections suggested that
aa.org). On the committee web pages, anyone can access GSO staff gather shared experience regarding virtual
most of the committee service-related material regard- meetings in correctional facilities for addition to the
less of their position within the committee. In addition, Corrections Workbook. In response to this consider-
area level chairs receive a list of other area level chairs to ation, the Trustees’ Corrections Committee reviewed the
share their local experience and activities. shared experience collected which included experience
Committee chairs receive updates on other commit- from six A.A. trusted servants, one professional who
tees’ activities through Box 4-5-9 articles and updates facilitates virtual meetings in a correctional facility and
from the assignment coordinator that may contain ideas, 11 stories from members in custody who have been pos-
activities, questions, and solutions from other commit- itively impacted by these meetings.
tees. These activity updates contain information about The committee requested that staff utilize the sub-
the General Service Office, requests for local sharing and mitted shared experience to develop a service piece
clarification of areas of potential confusion. that would be included in the Corrections Kit. The com-
The Treatment/Accessibilities and Remote mittee requested a draft or progress report. Collected
Communities staff member on this assignment also stories were excerpted in the Summer 2023 Box 4-5-9
cooperates with GSO’s Publishing department on devel- newsletter, shared in a Corrections Activity Update, and
oping and updating of literature for remote communities, submitted to AA Grapevine for possible inclusion in the
accessibilities, and treatment. 2024 Prison Issue.
The LIM (Loners and Internationalists Meeting news- The committee reviewed the draft service piece and
letter) is coordinated by the staff member on this assign- provided additional edits to the staff secretary with the
ment. There are currently 395 LIM members who receive understanding that the finalized service piece will be
this confidential bimonthly bulletin and who correspond included in the Corrections Kit.
with one another year-round. Review content and format of Corrections Kit and Workbook:
The staff member on this assignment serves as Inconsistencies in language were noted following the
secretary to the Conference Committee on Treatment revision of the “singleness of purpose” paragraph on
and Accessibilities, and as co-secretary to the trust- page 5 of the Workbook. The Trustees’ Corrections
ees’ Cooperation with the Professional Community/ Committee is forwarding language to the 74th Conference
Treatment and Accessibilities Committee. Committee on Corrections to unify language in FP-20 “A
Kelley C. Message to Corrections Professionals.”
The revised workbook language reads:
CORRECTIONS “Some professionals refer to alcoholics and drug
Trustees’ Report: The Trustees’ Corrections Committee addicts as a single group when using professional
recommends to the General Service Board actions that terminology. Nonalcoholics are, therefore, sometimes
support carrying the A.A. message to alcoholics con- introduced to A.A. and encouraged to attend A.A.
fined in a variety of correctional settings. Since the 2023 meetings. Nonalcoholics may attend open A.A. meet-
General Service Conference, the trustees’ committee has ings as observers, but attendance at closed meetings is
met four times. limited to persons who have a desire to stop drinking.”

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The original paragraph is also used in the following there, content is stored on a secure server owned and
items which fall outside of the purview of Corrections’ managed by the vendor. It is up to each Department of
material: Corrections or facility to decide what specific content
is made available within their particular jurisdiction. At
Faith Leaders Ask About Alcoholics Anonymous P-25 the item level, the person or persons responsible for
A.A. As a Resource for the Health Care Professional P-23 managing content for their facility or region can “opt in”
How A.A. Members Cooperate with Professionals P-29 to have specific titles made available on vendor tablets
within their facility.
If you are a Professional P-46
The committee reviewed a December snapshot of
Is There a Problem Drinker in the Workplace P-54 user interface across the Edovo, Securus, and Orijin
Information on Alcoholics Anonymous F-2 platforms, as well as a recap from the January 22,
Treatment Committee Workbook M-40i
2024, tablet demonstration provided by Market Partners
International. The committee discussed how to effec-
Cooperation with the Professional Community Workbook M-41i tively communicate tablet information to the Fellowship
A.A. Guidelines on Cooperating with Court,
MG-05 through the development of service material and a FAQ.
DWI and Similar Programs The staff secretary was asked to develop questions
A.A. Guidelines for A.A. Members Employed
MG-10 for a suggested survey through the North American
in the Alcoholism Field
Association of Wardens around facility-level availability
of AAWS and Grapevine literature.
Creation of Corrections Events Working Group:
The Trustees’ Corrections Committee chair appointed a Review “Carrying the Message Behind These Walls”
working group to research and report on opportunities to DVD for content and format:
attend professional corrections conferences. The Working The committee reviewed the Corrections video “Carrying
Group identified their scope: to identify corrections the Message Behind These Walls” for relevance and use-
events to attend, defining the purpose for attendance and fulness. The committee noted that the video addressed
the roles best served by Class A Trustees and A.A. trusted multiple audiences over an extended duration; and
servants. These efforts will be in cooperation with the that shorter, targeted presentations could be more
GSO CPC coordinator who is responsible for coordinating effective. The committee considered that the videos
exhibits and speaking engagements at national confer- “A New Freedom” and “A.A. for Legal and Corrections
ences for professionals. Six conferences have been placed Professionals” address topics and audiences which over-
on the 2024 CPC Preliminary Exhibit list. lap with the “Carrying the Message Behind These Walls”
The Trustees’ Committee discussed the report from the video. The committee agreed to forward to the 2024
working group and suggested the American Correctional Conference Committee on Corrections a suggestion that
Associate meeting in August 2024 in Nashville Tennessee the video “Carrying the Message Behind These Walls”
as a high priority to consider. This major professional be reviewed for relevance, effectiveness, and intended
conference attracts both United States and Canadian audience.
attendees. Andie Moss, Chair
Call for stories from women with extended, Staff Report: The Corrections assignment is responsible
long-term sentences: for helping A.A. members and local committees carry
An idea was expressed to solicit stories from women the A.A. message to alcoholics confined in a variety of
members in custody who have extended, long-term sen- correctional settings. Approximately 300 letters arrive
tences. A memo was sent to AA Grapevine, which agreed monthly from people in custody, many requesting
to run the call for stories in the July 2024 prison issue. free literature, information on how to start a meeting,
It was noted that stories from persons in custody can how to participate in the Corrections Correspondence
be considered for inclusion in other issues throughout Service (CCS), or for help in contacting A.A., either by
the year. The staff secretary will include a call for stories asking for a meeting in their facility or for a prerelease
in the next Corrections Activity update. The Trustees’ contact.
Corrections Committee requested an update at the July While not everyone who writes to GSO has a prob-
2024 meeting. lem with alcohol, all letters are answered. Many letters
Discussion about accessing AAWS and received from incarcerated alcoholics request free lit-
AA Grapevine literature on tablets. erature. Members in custody may be sent a Big Book, a
The committee had a robust discussion about confusion copy of Grapevine or La Viña, a selection of pamphlets,
around who accesses the literature to be download- and often the booklet A.A. in Prison: A Message of
ed on tablets. AAWS and Grapevine content lives on Hope. Literature is always accompanied with a state-
the vendors’ site, however accessing literature varies ment that it is made possible through the voluntary
according to vendor platform, correctional setting, and contributions of A.A. members throughout the United
jurisdictional policy. A.A. content (files + meta-data) is States and Canada. Information about tablet litera-
uploaded via secure process to a vendor database either ture is also being sent to raise awareness of tablets
by direct upload or FTP (File Transfer Protocol). From as a free source for a wide catalog of A.A. titles. This

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assignment does provide some A.A. literature directly; FINANCE AND BUDGETARY
however, the primary focus is connecting local service
Trustees’ Report:
committees with requests for help from inside correc-
2023 Actual Results vs. 2023 Budget
tional facilities.
General Service Office:
One of the most gratifying aspects of the assignment
is communicating with area and district corrections The audit of 2023 financial statements was completed
committees. The desk fields daily calls and emails from on April 3, 2024. All 2023 numbers cited in this report
are audited.
A.A. members doing corrections service work. In 2023,
For the year 2023, the GSO had an operating sur-
we passed along to area corrections committee chairs
plus before depreciation of $581,907 compared to a
approximately 320 requests from persons in custody,
budgeted operating surplus of $1,037,166. The surplus
corrections professionals, and A.A. members taking
was less than budgeted primarily because gross litera-
meetings into correctional facilities for prerelease con- ture sales were less than budgeted. Although literature
tacts, outside support, or A.A. literature. sales fell short of budget, they were significantly more
Prerelease contacts help alcoholics in custody get than in 2022. Depreciation of $1,056,630, non-operat-
acquainted and comfortable in A.A. within the com- ing revenue of $3,781,295 and non-operating expense
munity they are being released to. They are intended of $1,756,808 resulted in a bottom-line surplus of
to be made three to six months prior to a release date. $1,549,765. Most non-operating transactions are non-
Requests from persons in custody are received by GSO cash transactions such as changes in the market value
and forwarded to the appropriate area corrections chair. of the assets in the defined benefit pension plan and
In 2023, we forwarded almost 100 requests. post-retirement medical fund and changes in expected
The Corrections Correspondence Service (CCS) is future contributions to these plans. Appendix 1 details
coordinated through GSO and is intended for those who the non-operating revenue and expense.
have more than six months to serve on a sentence. There Although the operating surplus was $581,907, cash
are now 5,400 active participants. In 2023, 1350 new increased in 2023 by only $358,588. The cash increase
incarcerated AA members were matched with outside was less than the surplus because cash spent on printing,
members. To maintain this service there are regular shipping, and warehousing publications does not count
requests to the Fellowship through various channels for as an expense (cost of goods sold) until the items are
new correspondence volunteers. CCS continued to pro- sold. Until then, the expenditure is on the balance sheet
vide the spiritual connection of one member to another as inventory. Cash at year end was $976,718 which rep-
— sharing experience, strength and hope. Sign-up forms resented about three weeks of 2023 operating expenses.
have been updated to provide more accurate and effec- Operating expenses were $17,474,874, compared to
tive matches. We are also working to increase awareness the budget of $17,754,154. The G.SO.’s largest expense,
and participation in Canada. salaries, benefits, and payroll taxes was $11,041,355,
Thanks to the voluntary contributions of A.A. mem- slightly less than the budget of $11,221,433. Professional
bers, contracts with various vendors have enabled AAWS fees were $1,841,628, slightly less than the budget of
and AA Grapevine literature to be available on tablets $1,860,409. Please see Appendix 2 for a detailed listing
found in the various correctional settings in the United of professional fees.
Gross literature sales were $14,641,118, about 8%
States. This is a new service that continues to expand.
less than the budget of $15,900,000. However, 2023
There were 41,450 unique interactions with A.A. e-books
sales exceeded the $14,405,491 recorded in 2019, an
in 2023 with 4,388 titles completed. There were 48,603
encouraging sign for recovery from the pandemic. The
unique interactions with A.A. audiobooks in 2023, with
expense of printing, shipping, and storing literature was
37,463 titles completed. $7,726,991, 1% greater than the budget of $7,632,000.
GSO’s website has a dedicated section where most Contributions were $10,841,419, about 3% greater
Corrections service material can be found, including than the budget of $10,500,000. Operating revenue (after
current and past issues of the newsletter Sharing from subtracting cost of literature sold) was $18,056,782, 4%
Behind the Walls (SFBTW). This triannual publication con- less than the budget of $18,791,320.
tains excerpts of sharing from A.A. members in prison
who have written to GSO. The Corrections Kit list and GSO Actual vs. Budget 2023 Actual 2023 Budget Difference
Workbook are also available in digital form through the Operating Surplus/(Deficit) 581,907 1,037,166 (455,259)
Corrections page. Operating Expenses 17,474,874 17,754,154 (279,280)
We receive many letters from A.A. members on the Salaries, Benefits, and Payroll 11,041,355 11,221,433 (180,078)
inside who express their gratitude for the hope found in Taxes
the literature received, as well as for the many dedicated Professional Fees 1,841,628 1,860,409 (18,781)
A.A. members who take the time to reach behind the Gross Literature Sales 14,641,118 15,900,000 (1,258,882)
walls by bringing A.A. meetings into correctional facili-
Cost of Literature Sold 7,726,991 7,632,000 94,991
ties or via our Corrections Correspondence Service. As
Contributions 10,841,419 10,500,000 341,419
always, we are very grateful to be of service.
Operating Revenue 18,056,782 18,791,320 (734,538)
Rainer L.

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AA Grapevine: The average paid circulation for print magazines in all

The 2023 Grapevine budget anticipated a net deficit formats in 2023 was 54,569 (down from 58,813 in
of $872,582 (based on decreasing subscriptions, costs 2022). The 2023 subscriptions for the GV App launched
associated with the launch of the Grapevine App and in September 2023 averaged 843.
increasing costs for paper, printing, shipping, and ser- The 2023 gross margin on the magazine and con-
vices to the Fellowship). The actual results fared worse tent-related items (books, audio, etc.) of $1,163,834 was
than anticipated, with a net deficit of $888,465. $299,927 less than 2022, and $24,561 below budget.
Included in 2023 gross income was net profit from other
GV Actual vs. Budget 2023 Actual 2023 Budget Difference
published items of $562,746 which was $74,524 under
Net Deficit (888,465) (872,582) (15,883)
budget, and $111,769 less than 2022. Net profit in 2023,
including interest earned was $1,170,594, which is
2023 Actual Results vs. 2022 Actual Results
$293,167 under 2022 and $26,201 under budget.
General Service Office: Costs and expenses for editorial, circulation and
The operating surplus before depreciation of $581,907 business, and general and administration in 2023
compares to a surplus of $8,320 in 2022. The improved were $2,059,058. Cost and expenses were $176,357
surplus is primarily attributable to significantly greater more than in 2022 but $10,319 under budget. Overall,
literature sales in 2023 than in 2022. Overall, 2023 oper- Grapevine reported a deficit of $888,465 (which included
ating revenue of $18,056,782 compares to $15,910,334 accrued expenses, depreciation write-offs, and allowance
in 2022, and 2023 operating expenses of $17,474,874
for bad-debt accounts).
compares to $15,902,014 in 2022.
The Grapevine reported loss of $888,465 was higher
Including non-operating transactions, the 2023 sur-
than the 2023 budgeted loss of $872,582.
plus of $1,549,765 compares to a $995,618 deficit in
2022. Non-operating revenue of $3,781,295 compares GV Actual vs. Last Year 2023 Actual 2022 Actual Difference
to $1,932,348 in 2022. Gross literature sales increased
Magazine Circulation 54,569 58,813 (4,244)
from $11,999,441 in 2022 to $14,641,118 in 2023. (All Formats)
Contributions also increased, from $10,548,525 in 2022
App Circulation 843 0 843
to $10,841,419 in 2023.
Gross Margin on Subscriptions 601,088 789,246 (188,158)
Operating expenses increased to $17,474,874 in 2023
from $15,902,014 in 2022. The primary reason for this Gross Margin from other 562,746 674,515 (111,769)
Published Items
was that salaries, benefits, and payroll taxes increased
to $11,041,355 in 2023 from $9,900,597 in 2022 due Total Gross Margin 1,170,594 1,463,761 (293,167)
(Including interest)
to the creation of the Language Services and Legal,
Licensing, and Intellectual Property departments midway Total Expenses 2,059,058 1,882,701 176,357
through 2022 and the filling of vacant positions. Non- Net Income (Loss) (888,465) (404,940) (483,525)
operating expenses were $1,756,808 in 2023 compared
to $1,751,892 in 2022. La Viña Magazine Operations: In 2023, La Viña, the
Spanish-language magazine (approved by the 1995
GSO Actual vs. Last Year 2023 Actual 2022 Actual Difference General Service Conference) experienced an average cir-
Operating Surplus/(Deficit) 581,907 8,320 573,587 culation of 6,484 — as compared with the 2022 average
Surplus/(Deficit) including
circulation of 6,685. In previous years, La Viña circula-
1,549,765 (995,618) 2,545,383 tion had reached the 10,000 range. During 2023 and
non-operating transactions
Operating Revenue 18,056,782 15,910,334 2,146,448 2022 circulation incurred a significant drop-off, which is
Non-operating Revenue 3,781,925 1,932,348 1,849,577
attributable to the Covid-induced lack of live events in the
Spanish-speaking community, where many subscriptions
Gross Literature Sales 14,641,118 11,999,441 2,641,677
and renewals originate.
Contributions 10,841,419 10,548,525 292,894
During 2023, subscription income was $106,337
Operating Expenses 17,474,874 15,902,014 1,572,860 against $61,533 of direct publishing costs. La Viña also
Non-operating Expenses 1,756,808 1,751,892 4,916 realized approximately $139,494 from the sale of other
Salaries, Benefits, and Payroll 11,041,355 9,900,597 1,140,758 content-related items (books, audio, etc.) against direct
Taxes costs of $46,464. Total operating expenses (i.e., editori-
al, circulation and administrative costs) associated with
AA Grapevine: these publication activities were $891,210. The shortfall
The AA Grapevine Magazine Operations and between revenues earned from publishing activities ver-
Content-Related Items sus the cost to produce and distribute was $753,376.
Net income from subscriptions, for 2023, was $601,088. This shortfall of $753,376 was covered by the General
Income from subscriptions includes the print magazine, Service Board as a service activity to the Spanish-
single copies, back issues, GV Complete, the GV App speaking members of our Fellowship. The 2023 shortfall
and e Pub (the digital version of the print magazine). increased from the 2022 shortfall of $640,295.

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LV Actual vs. Last Year 2023 Actual 2022 Actual Difference Content Related Gross Margin 792,547 562,746 229,801
Average Circulation 6,484 6,685 (201)
Total Costs & Expenses 2,499,287 2,059,058 440,209
Net Operating Service Cost 753,376 636,604 (116,772)
Net Surplus/(Deficit) (582,572) (888,465) 305,893

2024 Budget
General Service Office: La Viña:
The 2024 budget has an operating surplus before depre- In 2024, with increasing large-scale in-person events,
ciation of $617,945 compared to a comparable surplus La Viña subscriptions will continue to rebound. Total
of $581,907 in 2023. 2024 operating expenses are bud-
circulation is projected to increase from 7,796 in 2023
geted at $19,024,414 compared to $17,474,874 in 2023.
The increased operating expense is in the personnel, to 7,836 in 2024. Total subscription income is expect-
data, automation and website, and travel and meeting ed to increase from $106,337 in 2023 to $115,187 in
categories. The personnel budget is always higher than 2024. La Viña’s net operating service cost covered by
the actual personnel costs for the previous year because the General Service Board in 2024 is expected to be
the budget assumes no turnover but there are inevitabil- $183,865 less than in 2023 ($569,511 compared to
ity resignations during the year which result in savings $753,376 in 2023).
while the position is being filled.
2024 operating revenue is budgeted at $19,642,359 LV 24 Budget vs. 23 Actual 2024 Budget 2023 Actual Difference
compared to $18,056,782 in 2023. This increase is
expected to come from literature sales, whose budget Print Circulation 7,836 7,796 40
is based on the same unit sales budgeted for 2023 Subscription Income 115,187 106,337 8,850
but with the price increase in effect for a full year.
Net Surplus/(Deficit) (569,511) (753,376) 183,865
Gross literature sales are budgeted at $16,817,345 in
2024 compared to $14,641,118 in 2023. Contributions
are budgeted at $10,500,000 for 2024 compared to Appendix 1
$10,841,419 in 2023.
2023 GSO NON-OPERATING REVENUE
GSO 24 Budget vs. 23 Actual 2024 Budget 2023 Actual Difference
Dividends and Interest on Reserve Fund and Post-
382,759
Operating Surplus/(Deficit) 617,945 581,907 36,038 Retirement Medical Fund
Gain on sale of Post-Retirement Medical Fund assets to
Operating Expenses 19,024,414 17,474,874 1,549,540 16,611
pay benefits
Operating Revenue 19,642,359 18,056,782 1,585,577 Increase in the market value of Post-Retirement Medical
997,644
Fund investments*
Gross Literature Sales 16,817,345 14,641,118 2,176,227
Increase in the surplus of the market value of the Defined
Contributions 10,500,000 10,841,419 (341,419) Benefit Plan assets over the actuarial calculation of future 2,384,282
benefits payable to participants*
AA Grapevine: TOTAL NON-OPERATING REVENUE 3,781,296
The Grapevine *Non-cash item
In 2024 a significant price increase will markedly
improve the gross margin and profitability of GV sub- 2023 GSO NON-OPERATING EXPENSE
scriptions. In 2023 efforts focused around the building
Disbursements from International Literature Fund 17,110
and launching of the GV and LV Apps in September 2023
after extensive research, testing and development. In Bad debt expense (write off of literature sales
44,749
receivables)*
2024, the app circulation builds in both volume and prof-
itability. Budgeted overall circulation (print and digital) is Credit card and bank transaction fees 155,288
projected to increase from 2023’s 55,412 paid average GSB Support of La Viña 755,749
to 61,663. Gross margin on subscriptions in 2024 is bud-
geted at $1,114,568, up from $601,088 in 2023 driven Penalties and interest 15,595
by the price increase of print subs as well as a higher Transfer from Reserve Fund to Grapevine 500,000
proportion of high margin Apps in the circulation mix.
Content-related income (books, audio, etc.) will increase Loss on currency exchange between US dollar and
9,253
Canadian dollar
to $792,547 which is up from 2023’s $562,746. If all
goes according to plan, in 2024 Grapevine will improve Increase in expected future contributions to the
254,364
on 2023 results by $305,893. Post-Retirement Medical Fund*

GV 24 Budget vs. 23 Actual 2024 Budget 2023 Actual Difference Fees paid to investment advisor for Defined benefit
4,700
retirement plan and post-retirement medical plan
Print and Digital Circulation 61,663 55,412 6,251
TOTAL NON-OPERATING EXPENSE 1,756,808
Gross Margin on Subscriptions 1,114,568 601,088 513,480
*Non-cash item

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Appendix 2 GRAPEVINE AND LA VIÑA

GSO PROFESSIONAL FEES Office Report: The Grapevine and La Viña staff had a
Accounting and Audit 274,890 very busy and productive year.
Since the last Conference, AA Grapevine, Inc. with its
Legal 173,249
12 full-time employees produced 12 monthly issues of
Human Resources 69,295 Grapevine and six bi-monthly issues of La Viña. It also
Editorial Services 80,651 produced a new revised edition of the Grapevine book
The Home Group, including a brand-new chapter on
Information Technology 187,709
virtual meetings; and a Spanish translation of Prayer &
Temporary Help 304,384 Meditation (Oración y Meditación), one of AA Grapevine’s
Payroll Processing 30,489 most popular books. In 2022, AAGV began production on
Document Translation 271,839
an all-new Step book, called Our Twelve Steps (to com-
plement the GV book Our Twelve Traditions) scheduled
Simultaneous Interpretation 62,557
for release in spring of 2024. Since partnering four years
Project Management 60,000 ago with Ingram Content Group to distribute its books,
Operational/Structure Consulting 51,819 e-books and audiobooks, Grapevine and La Viña material
is now reaching many more alcoholics in need.
Other* 274,746
The big news this year was the official launch of the
Total 1,841,628 new Grapevine and La Viña apps in September. The
NOTES: official launch was made at ICYPAA in San Francisco.
*Other includes: Members can download both apps for free from wher-
• Location Plus Consultant ever they get their apps. Subscriptions are required to
• Management of Public Information Press Releases
• GSB Inventory Facilitator
access the full stories and Archives. Digital subscriptions,
• Graphic Design which include the app and the website are priced at
$2.99 USD per month. AAGV brought on a new Digital
Kevin Prior, Treasurer
Engagement Editor this year to add new editorial content
to the apps and help with membership engagement. As
GENERAL SHARING SESSION of December, the downloads for the Grapevine app were
more than 23,000 and La Viña over 900. At the end of
Trustees’ Report: Since the 73rd General Service
2023, the AA Grapevine App reached number 20 on the
Conference, the General Service Board held three General Apple top 200 Newspaper and Magazine App charts.
Sharing Sessions. For each General Sharing Session, the In 2023, the GV and LV apps were launched on the
chair provided a topic and selected two speakers in Apple App Store and Google Play, and dedicated landing
advance of the session to share, which was then followed pages for the apps were created, as well as an app FAQ
by sharing from many in attendance. document that is available for download on the landing
The topic for the July General Sharing Session was, pages: aagrapevine.org/apps and aalavina.org/aplica-
“Working Together Harmoniously.” The chair chose ciones.
this topic in recognition of the vital need for the vision A special app playlist was added on the AAGV YouTube
to work harmoniously during this time in A.A., at every channel, with an introduction to the app and “how-to”
level, and to clearly delineate who does what and when, videos. In March 2023, The AAGV Website Department
with the intention of moving forward in coordinated became the Digital Publishing Department and grew
effectiveness. the team from one person to two. Since May 2023, the
Thoughtful sharing from the floor was captured in the Digital Publishing Department has managed the GV and
“July 2023 General Sharing Session Summary.” LV Instagram accounts in-house. In the same month, we
The topic for the session at the October Board upgraded the hosting server service to a high level due
Weekend was “Mutual Trust.” Again, rich and varied to the 100% increasing traffic/visits on our website. We
sharing followed and was captured in the “October 2023 now have a visit cap of 300K, up from a cap of 150K.
General Sharing Session Summary.” In October 2023, AA Grapevine celebrated the two-
As is customary in January, the delegate chairs year anniversary of its popular 30-minute Podcast, “The
Half Hour Variety Hour,” which is available on the leading
joined the Board Weekend and also participated in the
podcast platforms. New episodes continue to air every
General Sharing Session. The topic for the session was
Monday at 9:00 am EST. The podcast has now had over
“Leadership.”
680,000 downloads. AAGV continues working on new
The sharing was captured in the “January 2024 ideas to increase content on the YouTube channel, includ-
General Sharing Session Summary.” ing explainer videos and short videos (in both English and
If you wish to receive digital versions of the summa- Spanish) using member’s original seven-minute personal
ries from all three General Sharing Sessions, please con- audio stories from the GV and LV Audio Projects. The
tact the staff coordinator, [email protected]. YouTube channel keeps growing, with more than 11,800
Deborah K., Chair subscribers now. The videos gather thousands of views

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every month. AAGV has also continued to make AAGV/ guages of the U.S./Canada Service Structure — English,
LV content available to prisons via e-tablets. AAGV also French and Spanish.
produced its annual wall calendar (with member photos) Additionally, as the chair of the Services Unit Meeting,
and a pocket planner, in three languages. Group Services collaborates with all GSO desks in main-
Instagram accounts for both the AA Grapevine and La taining the shared experience found in the service mate-
Viña magazines continue to grow followers and to hope- rials relevant and timely. Kit lists are a standing agenda
fully reach more alcoholics in need. Users can read GV’s item for respective Conference Committees to review
Daily Quote each morning, know when our new maga- and make suggestions for updates, along with the service
zine issues arrive, learn about new GV and LV books and workbooks.
be inspired by both A.A. pioneers and today’s members. The group services coordinator coordinates with a
The Grapevine account (@alcoholicsanonymous_gv) has variety of fields both within and outside of the General
more than 11,300 followers, the La Viña account (@alco- Service Office. Key ongoing interdepartmental goals
holicosanonimos_lv) has over 1,540 followers. Members include:
are invited to send in their own anonymity-protected • Coordinates with GSO Staff Desks on the updating
photos for posting, after careful vetting by the GV/LV staff. of GSO’s service material, in English, Spanish and
AA Grapevine, Inc. continued to expand its successful French, as needed.
Carry the Message (CTM) Project to help members and • Collaborates with the Publishing Department on revi-
groups get Grapevine and La Viña subscriptions into the sions and updates, serving as a resource for the
hands of alcoholics in need. AAGV simplified the process update of The A.A. Service Manual and the Conference
to make it easier for members, groups and committees Final Report.
to get subscriptions to prisoners, members (at events • Coordinates with Operations for the annual service
and home groups), alcoholics in detoxes and rehab kit list update in print and digital formats for English,
centers, or to help doctors, lawyers, parole officers, French and Spanish.
teachers and other professionals learn more about A.A.
Throughout the year, AAGV, Inc. has collaborated with • Collaborates with Member Services and related depart-
GSO’s Corrections desk to fulfill hundreds of Carry the ments on projects having to do with the evolution of
Message subscriptions for inmates. The office currently the “Fellowship Connection” portal and data steward-
has a long list of incarcerated A.A. members in need ship with area registrars, such as the Data Integrity
of a subscription. This year the La Viña Anniversary in Working Group.
Oregon contributed $9,000 to the CTM project. Liaising with the Fellowship:
The GV/LV staff members have participated in many • Serves as liaison to over 540 intergroup and central
events in the U.S. and Canada, both in person and virtual- offices, in English, Spanish and French in the U.S.
ly, such as the National Corrections Conference, ICYPAA, and Canada. Group services also helps maintain
the Intergroup/Central Office Seminar, the National intergroup and central office shared experience and
Hispanic A.A. Convention, La Viña Anniversaries and contact information for communication purposes as
all four GSO Regional Forums. They also participated in well as A.A. Near You. Coordinates the participation of
many GV and LV conferences and workshops. AAWS at the annual intergroup/central office seminar
Paola M., La Viña Editor (ICOAA), working with the seminar’s Policy and Site-
Selection Committees.
GROUP SERVICES • Serves as liaison to other Twelve Step fellowships and
to Special International Contacts. Helps coordinate
Staff Report: The Group Services staff oversees the pro- and participates in the “Day of Sharing,” a cooperative
duction and regular update of service material which event between A.A. and other Twelve Step fellowships
provides information and shared experience not found that rotates coordination annually amongst the differ-
in Conference-approved literature. Service material is ent fellowships.
developed by GSO based on group needs and common
questions being directed to GSO. It provides shared • Serves as regional correspondent to the West Central
experience to groups and members when there is a region of the United States.
need for timely sharing of information. That is generally Supporting the work of the General Service Conference:
not possible through the Conference-Approval process. • Secretary to the Conference Committee on Report and
These materials fall into several categories: materials for Charter
service committees (kits, workbooks, committee related • Secretary to the General Service Board Participation of
guidelines, self-support package), reference and resource Online Groups Ad Hoc Committee
material that requires updating such as “Estimates of
• Support Staff for the AAWS Technology/Communi-
Groups and Members,” A.A. Guidelines, and materials
cation/Services Committee
where processes are informally defined such as “How to
Conduct a Sharing Session” and “Safety: Our Common • Secretary to the AAWS Service Material Ad Hoc
Welfare.” A six-page document, SM F-33, lists and Committee
describes each service piece that is available. GSO con- • Secretary to the AAWS Services Subcommittee
tinues to work toward providing services in the three lan- Karina C.

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INTERNATIONAL
Trustees’ Report: The trustees’ International Committee
is responsible for reviewing information about A.A. activ-
ity around the world. The committee also reviews infor-
mation regarding the World Service Meeting (WSM) held
every two years. Noting that the GSB serves as the host
country every four years, at the fall meeting, in the year
prior to a WSM, the committee reviews and approves
the proposed WSM budget. The committee reviews
quarterly financial reports on the International Literature
Fund and the World Service Meeting Fund maintained
by A.A. World Services. The committee reviews sugges-
tions regarding international travel made by the Trip
Consultation Team, which includes as its members:
the chair of the General Service Board, both trustees-at-
large, U.S. and Canada, another trustee appointed by the
General Service Board chair, general manager of GSO
and the staff member on the International assignment.
The committee receives reports on all international trips committee noted with appreciation the progress and
taken on behalf of the GSB and GSO U.S./Canada. efficiencies of the new translation and licensing portal
The current International Literature Fund budget of request system. The portal will help afford countries a
$ 42,363.47 will allow A.A. World Services to translate more pro-active role in knowing the status of their coun-
and publish a variety of international-language books, try’s literature permissions. The committee requested
pamphlets, and reprints. The International Literature that detailed translation and licensing reporting continue
Fund represents contributions from A.A. groups and to be forwarded quarterly to the committee.
structures around the world. AAWS holds the copyrights The committee received a verbal report from Legal,
on all international-language versions of our Conference- Licensing and Intellectual Property Department director,
approved material and issues licensing agreements Beverly Jones-King, regarding the successful comple-
for publication and distribution, as requested, to those tion of the translation of licensing documentation into
countries that have an established general service board. Spanish.
Recognizing the need of new translations when there is The committee reviewed cost estimates provided by
not a service structure to support the project or when the Legal, Licensing and Intellectual Property Department
there are expressed needs from committees in the U.S./ to complete the translation into Haitian Creole of the Big
Canada structure for AA literature in languages not yet Book chapters, 1, 9, 11 and “Dr. Bob’s Nightmare.” The
translated, General Service Office translates and pub- committee requested that a memo be sent to AAWS,
lishes the material, subject to scheduling by the Legal seeking the allocation of funds from the International
License Intellectual Property department and approval of Literature Fund to support the completion of the Haitian
the AAWS Board. Creole Big Book.
Composition, Scope, Procedure — The committee reviewed The committee also discussed previously developed
the trustees’ International Committee Composition, draft pamphlets of “Is AA for Me?” and “How it
Scope, Procedure. The committee noted the importance Works” in Haitian Creole and asked that the appropriate
of responding to the need of new translations (con- GSO department proceed in making these pamphlets
sidering the needs and costs on a case-by-case basis) available.
particularly if there is not a service structure to support The committee also noted that many of the requests
the project. for Haitian Creole literature are requested from those in
The committee also noted that some literature the U.S./Canada structure for Creole speaking alcoholics.
requests in languages not yet translated are at times Meeting Guide App — The committee discussed the
requested by service committees in the U.S./Canada GSO senior digital analyst’s Meeting Guide app report.
structure and that collaboration from the Accessibilities/ The committee posed questions regarding International
Remote Community coordinator and TL Department requests and data and the status of a test pilot project
may be needed for a comprehensive understanding of in cooperation with an A.A. International entity. The
translation requests. The committee also recommended committee requested that ongoing reporting about the
that Scope #10 be added to the committee Composition, project and its impact on the GSO Communication
Scope and Procedure. (Note: This recommendation was Services Department and the International community
passed by the GSB.) be brought to the October meeting.
AAWS Licensing and translations activity report — The Staff report — The staff report was accepted as present-
committee accepted the AAWS literature Translations ed. The committee discussed a topic brought by the staff
and Licensing report and opened up for questions. The secretary of an existing incomplete draft translation of

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the Haitian Creole “Big Book” and requested that the Finance committee to encourage countries that are able
Translation & Licensing Department provide the cost to contribute funds to the World Service Meeting Fund.
estimates of hiring a professional translator and editor to 28th World Service Meeting (2024) — The committee
finish the remaining text of a Haitian Creole Big Book to discussed the 28th World Service Meeting (WSM) to be
be brought back to the October meeting. held Sunday, October 27-Thursday October 31, 2024.
International Budget Reforecast — The committee The committee noted the longtime custom that the
reviewed the 2023 International reforecast budget and General Service Board invite WSM delegates who wish
agreed to forward to the Trustees’ Finance and Budgetary to stay past the WSM to observe the GSB meeting as
Committee. The committee noted that items pertaining guests of the board. The committee recommended
to Zonal fees and expenses have been adjusted and infor- that the General Service Board send an invitation
mation about these adjustments have been provided to to World Service Meeting delegates inviting them to
the GSO chief financial officer. observe the General Service Board weekend to be held
2024 World Service Meeting Budget — The committee November 1-4, 2024. (Note: This recommendation was
reviewed and approved the preliminary 2024 World passed by the GSB.)
Service Meeting budget. The committee also took note International Trips — Our General Service Board and
of the ongoing efforts by the General Service Office to General Service Office respond to many invitations from
curtail expenses for the 28th World Service Meeting. other countries to attend events including conventions,
International Literature Fund (ILF) and World Service anniversary celebrations, conferences, board meetings,
Meeting (WSM) Fund — The committee discussed the cur- office visits and service assemblies. Since last year’s
rent status of the ILF and WSM Fund as well as the new General Service Conference, GSO General Manager, trust-
AAWS accounting procedures for the funds. ees and Staff Members have attended online and in per-
The committee noted the responsibility and impor- son events throughout 2023. Some trips have included
tance that these funds be maintained by AAWS, and that the VII Peru Nacional Convention, XXIII REDELA Zonal
they are clearly and accurately reported to the World in Medellin, Colombia, XXII European Service, York,
Service Meeting and REDELA zonal meeting. The com- England, the monthly REDELA Sharing Sessions (Online)
mittee looks forward to continued quarterly reporting and the V International Meeting on “Lifestyles Versus
from GSO Finance on the progress of the maintenance of Toxic Habits” in Guantanamo, Cuba.
these accounts as well as any updates to the procedures The committee agreed that the Trip Consultation
of maintenance and distribution of the funds. The com- Team will undertake a review of the criteria for selecting
mittee asked that all final balances for the WSM Fund countries to visit in order to ensure prudent financial
and ILF and final costs of the WSM be forwarded to the allocation. The committee also made a request to the
Trustees’ International Committee when that informa- International desk to develop a spreadsheet that captures
tion is provided to the Trustees’ Finance and Budgetary the historical context of A.A. in different countries. This
Committee. The committee received with appreciation will help guide country visits with a focus on providing
an update from the General Manager regarding recent support to emerging A.A. structures.
contributions made by REDELA A.A. structures to the
International Literature Fund at the 23rd REDELA. The Linking GSB Class A trustee professionals (U.S./Canada)
General Manager also provided an update on a substan- with Class A professionals serving GSBs in other countries
tial contribution made by the 22nd European Service — The committee received a progress report of a Class A
Meeting and the Great Britain GSO to the World Service (nonalcoholic) Facebook group that has been established
Meeting fund. The committee acknowledged the desire by Class A trustees for Class A trustees from service
expressed by the delegates at the 27th World Service structures around the world to welcome questions and
Meeting to be fully informed of the costs of the World share experience. An US/Can Class A trustee is now serv-
Service Meeting and the amount the General Service ing as a facilitator on the coordination and maintenance
Board of U.S./Canada contributes to the expenses. The of the page and looks forward to providing a progress
committee requested that the international desk send a report on a review of the usefulness and relevancy of this
memo to the A.A. structures around the world regarding platform as a mechanism for nonalcoholic A.A. trustees
contributions to the World Service Meeting in the spirit of around the world to share experience. The committee
the Seventh Tradition and self-support as well as support- received a report written by the Class A trustee regard-
ing emerging structures to provide an equal opportunity ing the status of a private Facebook group established
to attend the World Service Meeting. by former nonalcoholic US/CAN trustees for the purpose
The committee accepted reports on the International of exchanging experiences with nonalcoholic trustees
Literature Fund and World Service Meeting Fund and from other structures. The committee observed that the
observed that recent Seventh Tradition contributions report indicated that nonalcoholic trustees currently do
to both funds reflect the awareness of countries of the not perceive a need to utilize this platform for sharing
need to assist each other to assure access to the A.A. experiences, therefore the committee has decided to
message and support the World Service Meeting. The discontinue its use. The committee encourages that any
committee noted the effectiveness of suggestions from structures seeking experiences of nonalcoholic trustees
the 27th World Service Meeting, Policy, Admission and can reach out to the International desk.

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English-Speaking Structures and Local Big Book Stories Staff Report: The International desk receives correspon-
— The committee discussed the current practice of dence from groups, individual A.A.s and professionals
International English-Speaking Structures not having interested in obtaining information about A.A. in coun-
license permissions to add local stories to the Big Book tries outside of the U.S. and Canada. Additionally, the
reflecting member experience in their structures. This staff member corresponds with 65 international general
practice of local story inclusion is typically encouraged service offices and/or literature distribution centers.
when international structures develop Big Books in The International desk is also responsible for commu-
other languages spoken in their home structures. The nication with structures, groups and members outside
committee discussed a report submitted by GSO’s Legal, the United States/Canada. Correspondence arrives at the
Licensing and Intellectual Property Department, which International desk in many languages and is answered
stated that only the first 164 pages of the Big Book are in the appropriate language, often accompanied by A.A.
licensed; local stories are treated as “creative work” and literature. Currently the staff member on the assignment
therefore are not licensed. The report also states that and the assistant are bilingual (English-Spanish) which
“It is at the discretion and purview of the country to simplifies a portion of the communications. For commu-
add stories written by local members in their countries’ nications in other languages we seek outside professional
languages to the story sections of their translated Big services. Where there is a nearby office, we provide that
Book.” The committee requested that the international contact information. We emphasize our trust in the fact
desk send a memo to GSOs around the world encour- that these members can maintain sobriety, help others
aging the addition of local personal recovery stories to and become independent in their own countries.
the Big Book. The committee also requested that the The International staff member benefits from the
International desk includes in the communication with experience of GSO staff, cooperation with the Publishing
GSOs around the world U.S./Canada shared experience department, and the support of the trustees’ International
on the development of the Fifth Edition of the Big Book. Committee, of which the coordinator serves as secretary.
Proposed Agenda Item (PAI) — The committee discussed Other responsibilities on the assignment are:
a request that the Trustee-at-Large/U.S. forward to the 2024 • Serving as coordinator for the biennial World Service
World Service Meeting a proposal regarding a feasibility
Meeting (WSM) and maintaining contact with WSM
study of how to increase worldwide communication, con-
delegates and their offices throughout the year. The
sultation, and cooperation on A.A. international issues, so
28th WSM will be held in New York October 27-31,
that policy recommendations that affect A.A. around the
2024.
world can be made with global A.A. participation and took
no action. The committee noted that the purpose of the • Maintaining close communications with our AAWS
World Service Meeting is to act as a forum for sharing Translation and Licensing department on requests for
the experience, strength, and hope of participating struc- new translations of literature, and the beginnings of
tures. The World Service Meeting sets policy for the World new general service or information offices that may
Service Meeting only, and not for A.A. as whole. The be able to distribute literature to local members and
World Service Meeting does offer opportunities through- groups.
out the week for delegates to share experience with each • Each year, A.A. World Services, Inc. receives requests
other on a myriad of topics affecting A.A. today. to translate our literature into international languages.
Discuss International Data Map project — The committee Primary in consideration of each request is the need
discussed the International Data Map project and agreed to ensure the integrity and authenticity of A.A.’s mes-
that due to current financial constraints the project and sage. To that end, the Legal License and Intellectual
its budget be deferred to 2025. The committee recog- Property department (LLIP) has the responsibility of
nized the significance of having information on global having each translation checked against the English
A.A. activity available for countries seeking to sponsor original. In countries where there is a general service
countries without A.A. presence. The committee noted board licensed to publish or distribute A.A. literature,
the ongoing update of worldwide A.A. contact informa- an approved translation is often financed and pub-
tion at the International desk. lished there. Where a stable A.A. structure is not yet
The committee approved the preliminary 2024 budget present, the AAWS Board undertakes the new publica-
and agreed to forward it to the trustees’ Finance and tion drawing funds from International Literature Fund.
Budgetary Committee. • Handling communications related to international
Virtual trip reports — The committee asked the secretary travel, including the Trip Consultation Team which
to create a dedicated report form for virtual event par- considers international invitations, and attendance at
ticipation. Zonal Service Meetings. The U.S. and Canada is part of
We continue to be encouraged and inspired by the the Americas zone and is represented by our trustees-
international A.A. community and general service boards at-large at the Meeting of the Americas (REDELA). The
and offices in other countries, which carry the A.A. mes- Asia-Oceania, European and Sub-Saharan Africa zones
sage to countless thousands in new regions and across have separate zonal meetings.
difficult linguistic, cultural and economic barriers. • Work closely with our Member Services department
Marita R., Chair to ensure that updated contact information for GSOs,

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central offices and intergroups, groups, and contacts fulfill the broad purposes of the General Service Board,
for countries outside of the United States and Canada as those purposes relate to the strengthening of the
is available. Fellowship and the advancement of its message, through
Irene D. well-planned International Conventions. The detailed
work inherent in putting on the Convention is execut-
INTERNATIONAL CONVENTIONS/ ed by the Convention coordinator and a professional
REGIONAL FORUMS Convention consultant.

Trustees’ Report: Since the 2023 General Service July 2023

Conference the trustee’s International Conventions / The committee reviewed its Composition, Scope and
Regional Forums (IC-RF) Committee has met five times Procedure and made no changes.
(including interim meetings held on December 12, 2023, The 2025 International Convention Co-Chair attended
and February 9, 2024). the 2023 Al-Anon International Convention and facilitat-
ed the A.A. meetings. The General Manager also attended
International Conventions
the convention and received a special gift book present-
The goal of the International Conventions is to let the
ed to A.A. by the Al-Anon Family Groups.
world know that A.A. is alive, flourishing, and available
It was also reported that the 2035 International
as a community resource, locally and internationally.
Convention site selection visits are scheduled for August
The objectives of the International Convention are:
2023. The site selection team will report back results
• Provide a site for the International Convention that
and their recommendation to the October 2023 board
is conducive to celebrating sobriety and providing a
meeting.
useful opportunity to share the A.A. experience in a
broader way. The committee reviewed the 2023 Conference
Committee on International Conventions/Regional
• Provide opportunities for the rededication of attend-
Forums report; and discussed the following:
ees to the primary purpose of A.A.
1. Committee Consideration from the 2023 Conference
• Enable attendees the opportunity to witness the Committee on International Conventions/Regional
success and growth of the A.A. program around the Forums stated in part “the consensus of the commit-
world. tee was that we should keep with the current prac-
The committee acts and makes recommendations to tice of closing the Big Meetings at the International
Convention wherein the chair has the choice of closing
the meeting with either the Lord’s Prayer, the Serenity
Prayer or the Responsibility Statement.”
2. After the Conference committee’s report out to the
Conference, a floor action was brought forward stat-
ing: “The options for closing the Big Meeting at the
International Convention be the Serenity Prayer or the
Responsibility Statement.”
3. Because the Conference ran out of time for substan-
tive discussion on the floor action, a motion passed
to recommit this item to the Trustees’ Committee on
International Convention/Regional Forums.
Considering the foregoing, the committee agreed to
forward the item to the 2024 Conference Committee
on International Conventions/Regional Forums for
further discussion. The committee requested that
in addition to the background provided to the 2023
Conference Committee on International Conventions/
Regional Forums, the staff secretary provide in the
notes the actions taken by the General Service
Conference body.
The committee reviewed the General Service Board
policy on discounts and subsidies that has been in effect
since it was adopted in 1989 and noted that as contract-
ing for facilities and services for the 2025 International
Convention moves forward, this is the policy that will
be followed. The policy reads: “Whenever a discount or
subsidy is that which would be offered to any other orga-
nization of similar size requiring a purchased service or

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product of similar character and magnitude, for example,

convention rates at hotels, it may be accepted. Whenever
a discount or subsidy is partly or in total offered because
we are Alcoholics Anonymous, it must be declined.”
The committee reviewed and accepted a preliminary
concept for the 2025 International Convention Souvenir
Book, presented by the GSO publishing director. The
committee also discussed the suggested option of a sou-
venir bag and requested that David R. consult with the
Convention consultant as it relates to Stadium guide-
lines (i.e., stadium entrance restrictions), and report
back to the committee at a future meeting for additional
discussion.
Our International Convention consultant, Talley
Management Group (TMG), provided a brief overview
of recent activities in the planning process for the 2025
International Convention. Salient points included:
1. Convention consultant working with AAWS finance in
developing the convention budget. It was noted that
to refine budget expenses, it would be helpful if the
trustees’ ICRF committee provide to AAWS:
a. A sense from the committee as to projected atten-
dance.
b. A final decision regarding whether there will be a vir-
tual option added to the International Convention.
Discussion ensued regarding projected attendance and
how best to approach at least benchmark numbers.
It was discussed that there continues to be a trend to ensure that the virtual option will be engaging to
of robust attendance at larger A.A. events, as well as the virtual attendees. The committee also determined
non-A.A. events similar in nature to the International that further discussions are needed to reach any final
Convention. It was noted that at 57,000 the 2015 decisions on how to address any products or virtual
International Convention attendance exceeded the options.
50,000 budgeted attendance; and that Detroit was also • The committee agreed that a “flag ceremony only”
on target to exceed budgeted attendance numbers. option would continue to be offered at no cost to the
Staff Secretary’s note: Taking into consideration attendee.
the actual attendance of the last two Canadian The committee recommended to the General Service
International Conventions being 45,000, the com- Board that Trish L. serve as the local Volunteer Welcome
mittee determined a solid estimated attendance for Committee chair for the 2025 International Convention.
benchmarking the 2025 budget numbers is 47,500. This recommendation was board approved at the July 31,
2. Housing inventory — closing gaps in bits and pieces; 2023, General Service Board meeting.
and we are planning that we will be able to bridge the
October 2023
gap with Airbnb.
The staff secretary reported that onsite kick-off ses-
The committee discussed and weighed the feasible sions, with TMG and the General Service Office, and AA
options for a virtual component, including estimated Grapevine office staff, were held to generate excitement
costs. for the work required to plan for and execute the 2025
• The committee recommended to the General Service International Convention. It was noted that requests are
Board that a digital option be added to the 2025 coming in for hospitality suites and new updates to the
International Convention, providing anonymity-pro- FAQs are under development. Finally, web banners with
tected, encrypted, digital access to the Friday night the convention logo are being developed.
meeting (including the flag ceremony), and the The committee reviewed a report from the 2035
Saturday and Sunday Big meetings, at a fee to International Convention Site Inspection Team. Based on
be determined. This recommendation was board the recommendation of the 2035 Site Inspection Team,
approved at the July 31, 2023, General Service Board the committee recommended to the General Service
meeting. Board that Indianapolis, Indiana be the site for the 2035
• It was noted that the cost of this option is estimat- Alcoholics Anonymous International Convention. This
ed at $25,000 – $30,000. It was also discussed that recommendation was board approved at the October 30,
thoughtful discussion and planning will be necessary 2023, General Service Board meeting.

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Our International Convention consultant, TMG, provid- and that the Full Registration fee be $180.00 (USD) per
ed a comprehensive overview of recent activities in the attendee. This recommendation was board approved at
planning process for the 2025 International Convention. the October 30, 2023, General Service Board meeting.
Salient points included: The committee reviewed and accepted an update on
1. International Convention (IC) Budget review and the 2025 International Convention Souvenir Book, pre-
adjustments sented by the GSO publishing director. Further discus-
The consultant reported that significant time has been sion is also needed by the committee about the option
spent reviewing the open questions that could have an of a souvenir bag and Stadium guidelines (i.e., stadium
impact on the budget and seeking out additional mate- entrance restrictions), and report back to the commit-
rial changes. The production crew made a site visit tee at a future meeting for additional discussion. One
to Vancouver, BC, Canada to witness a concert set in of the committee members, who also serves on the AA
the round and meet with facility staff. As a result, the Grapevine board, would like to share with the committee
issues have been resolved and the consultant is com- plans regarding the AA Grapevine IC souvenir material at
fortable with the current budget projection around the the January 2024 meeting.
Big Meetings in the stadium. The committee tabled the discussion of the Site
Selection Guidelines for 2040 International Convention
2. Onboarding the Registration and Housing Company, to the January 2024 meeting.
Showcare. The committee tabled the discussion of the 2030
The consultants have started interfacing with the International Convention Consultant Selection to the
Showcare team on Registration and Housing, includ- January 2024 meeting.
ing articulating the business rules around all the
processes and policy decisions to present to GSO for December 2023 (Interim meeting)
input or further dialogue. All proposed changes will be The committee met on December 12, 2023, and was
shared with GSO, AAWS and the IC/RF for comment provided an update to continue a discussion on the 2025
and consensus. International Convention virtual program and/or product:
The 2025 IC Coordinator shared a video of the 2015
3. Insurance policy questions related to event cancella- Flag Ceremony to remind everyone what anonymity pro-
tions are still open and will be reported at the January tection treatment looks like when being filmed.
2024 meeting.
Staff Secretary Note: During this meeting the trust-
TMG provided an update to the A.A. World Services, ees’ IC-RF Committee members shared they felt some
Inc., Board sharing that we will have insurance, but confusion and believed that they had discussed and
companies won’t quote till about a year out from the made decisions on the option that would be offered to
start date of the International Convention. members and attendees that could not make it to the
To facilitate the committee’s discussion on setting 2025 International Convention in person but wanted
the 2025 International Convention registration fees, the to attend share in the experience. While this is true,
committee received a report from the AAWS Finance these discussions took place in a little bit of a vacuum
Committee chair about the budget discussion held at their and now with the 2025 IC Coordinator in place as a
meeting on October 27, 2023. Salient points included: Staff Assignment we are at the point where the rubber
meets the road discussions and decisions in “how”
1. The committee discussed the virtual component for
this would work at the 2025 International Convention.
the 2025 International Convention. It is necessary for
the program to be engaging; and further discussion Excerpt from a November 27, 2023, A.A. International
will take place at the January 2024 meeting about the Convention 2025 — Virtual Programing Discussion: GSB
program component ideas. The committee agreed Virtual Program Track IC2025 decisions to date:
that a percentage of the registration cost should reflect The committee discussed and weighed the feasible
the cost of the virtual component. It was discussed options for a virtual component, including estimated
that this could land somewhere between 40-50% of costs. The committee recommended to the General
the in-person registration fee. Service Board that a digital option be added to the
2. The committee discussed the number of estimated 2025 International Convention, providing anonymi-
attendees and spoke on border crossing challenges ty- protected, encrypted, digital access to the Friday
and what number they feel is prudent. night meeting (including the flag ceremony), and the
The trustees’ IC/RF committee reviewed the 2025 Saturday and Sunday Big meetings, at a fee to be
International Convention budget and held a discus- determined.
sion about setting the registration fee for the 2025 It was noted that the cost of this option is estimated at
International Convention which took into consideration a $50,000 (initial estimate) including the flag ceremony
realistic budget, the committee’s responsibilities relevant and the Friday Big Meeting and Saturday Big Meeting
to International Conventions, and the spirit of self-sup- and Sunday Big Meeting. It was also discussed that
port. The committee recommended to the General thoughtful discussion and planning will be necessary
Service Board that the 2025 International Convention to ensure that the virtual option will be engaging to the
Pre-Registration fee be $155.00 (USD) per attendee virtual attendees.

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Staff Secretary’s Note: In these new discussions tak- • TMG Consultant, Gregg Talley, shared that he needs to
ing place we are talking about a product cost versus a have a listing of the actual planned event items to film
registration fee. so they can obtain an accurate budget description at
the next board meeting in January 2024.
Why the Committee is potentially moving away from
live streaming to post IC Convention product offering: • The product can be sold at the time of registration, like
The IC Coordinator explained that meetings to gather souvenir materials.
additional detailed information took place with Talley • At the chair’s request, the IC Coordinator reveals that
and one vendor in November 2023 to begin to clearly there were 440,000+ people who viewed the 2015
understand what it would be like to include what was flag ceremony, that we offered to people at no extra
thought about initially as a virtual program live stream cost to view.
at the 2025 International Convention event. It would • The Committee Chair suggests creating a fact sheet
be like having two different conventions, one that we for communication to members. The committee looks
were trying to manage online and the other manage forward to a progress report at the January 2024 com-
in-person. mittee meeting.
It was clarified that committee members, as well as
members at large, could have different viewpoints of January 2024
what is meant by a virtual program track for the 2025 The committee secretary shared that the Alcoholics
IC. One, is that it sounds as if a person could sign-in Anonymous World Services, Inc. Board forwarded a
and participate live at the same time as the attendees revised 2025 International Convention budget reflecting
participating in person during the three Big meetings an increase in overhead costs from $150,000 to $522,165
on Friday and Saturday night and Sunday morning. and resulting in a deficit budget. AAWS requested
Like how participants have attended AA meetings, the trustees’ Committee on International Convention-
Area Assemblies and Conventions during the recent Regional Forums revisit the previously approved registra-
pandemic and post-pandemic. tion fees set at the October 2023 GSB meeting to address
the deficit.
Discussion points at this meeting regarding anonym- After thoughtful discussion the committee rec-
ity-protection of the filmed content and virtual sessions: ommended to the General Service Board that the
• It is already understood by the committee that ano- 2025 International Convention Pre-Registration fee be
nymity protection must be maintained in the final increased from $155.00 to $160.00 (USD) per attend-
video product of the three Big Meetings. ee and that the Full Registration fee be increased from
• A committee member shared that anonymity protec- $180.00 to $185.00 (USD) per attendee to correct
tion doesn’t necessarily negate something being live. the deficit budget. This recommendation was board
This still needs discussion at a future meeting. approved at the January 29, 2024, General Service Board
meeting.
• A committee member shared we must be careful with The International Convention consultant, TMG, provid-
using the word, “Virtual,” because that could indicate ed a comprehensive overview of recent activities in the
people can live stream it from home. This still needs planning process for the 2025 International Convention.
discussion at a future meeting. Salient points included:
• A committee member asked if we explore other plat- TMG provided a report on the development of a video
forms to see if we can do both. product, anonymity-protected, encrypted, digital access
• At this point the committee believes that sessions can- of the three Big Meetings. The product is planned to ini-
not be live-streamed but must have the time built-in tially be available to purchase by members through the
to allow for the review and edit of the video taken to Convention registration process.
anonymity-protect it and then make it ready for the The total cost of production is $58,000 including the
people to purchase it for viewing. anonymity protection editing and the hosting on A.A.’s
Discussion on what are the actual “Run of Show” Vimeo Channel at $2.00 per viewing and a $6,000 cost
schedule events are we including in the filmed content: of converting the sale of the product to the A.A. Web
• The IC Coordinator shared we need to have a clear Store at some point post-Convention. The committees
direction of what detailed “Run of Show” agenda discussed the following suggestions:
items that we want to film within each of the three big 1. Adding a participatory virtual program session like
meetings, such as do we want to film the presentation “A.A. Around the World” as part of the purchase of a
of the ___millionth copy of the Big Book, etc.…. The three Big Meetings product.
IC Coordinator provided background for this meeting
2. Making audio recordings available for purchase of the
to the committee with the 2015 and 2020 IC run of
main sessions, separate from the three Big Meetings.
show schedules for the three big meetings for them
to understand what is planned to take place at each 3. Consider having non-anonymity protected video
meeting. The committee determined we shouldn’t recording from the 2025 International Convention for
scale back on production of what is normally included archival purposes.
in the historical “Run of Show” schedules. The committee requested the staff secretary to set

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up an interim meeting by February 7, 2024, to continue The committee agreed to forward to the 2024
the discussion of these ideas. The committee is request- Conference Committee on International Conventions/
ing information regarding sales and projections of the Regional Forums the discussion of an anonymity-protect-
options and how these ideas can be completed for the ed, delayed Internet broadcast of the Convention Flag
interim meeting. Ceremony for the 2025 International Convention.
The committee reviewed and discussed updates to The committee agreed to forward to the 2024
the goals and objectives in the site selection guidelines Conference Committee on International Conventions/
for the 2040 International Convention. The committee Regional Forums the discussion of the production of
accepted the 2040 site selection guidelines with suggest- anonymity-protected videos of other highlights of the
ed edits. Convention as a way of sharing the spirit and enthu-
The committee reviewed and discussed updates to siasm of the 2025 International Convention with A.A.
include in the 2030 International Convention Consultant members.
Selection process. The committee suggested that the The committee reviewed and accepted a tentative list
next bidder’s question and answer day should provide of Program titles for the 2025 International Convention
guidelines to participants of when and what to share with minor revisions.
at this event, to allow for an equal experience for all The committee reviewed a sample of the 2025
bidders. The committee requested the staff secretary International Convention stationery and agreed on option
to complete a final pass of Convention consultant’s number two of the envelope presented. It was noted that
vendors to ensure it includes any new strong players the stationery will be used by the General Service Office
in the field. The request for information be improved beginning in March 2024.
to ensure AAWS gains the information needed to select The committee reviewed and accepted a housing/reg-
those to bid. GSO should consider whether a non-disclo- istration business rule for 2025 International Convention
sure agreement should be signed by these vendors. The with minor revisions to add a date for compassionate
committee accepted the site selection guidelines with allowance of time for cancellations as well as allow a
suggested edits. two-room maximum per registrant to manage control
The committee reviewed and accepted an update on over our room block.
the 2025 International Convention Souvenir Book, pre- The committee discussed the International Convention
sented by David R., GSO publishing director. Publishing 2025 Mobile App requirements related to messaging and
is going to reach out to members who can provide shar- anonymity. The secretary shared that technology and
ing and stories from the Vancouver area regarding the functionality of mobile devices have advanced signifi-
growth of A.A. in that region. Further discussion is also cantly since 2015 and 2020, so it’s important that we
clarify specific requirements for the 2025IC App. Three
needed by the committee about the option of a souve-
specific questions submitted by Technology Services for
nir bag and Stadium guidelines (i.e., stadium entrance
consideration will be posed at an interim meeting in
restrictions), and report back to the committee at a
February 2024 to obtain the committees’ input.
future meeting for additional discussion.
The committee agreed to forward to the 2024 February 2024 (Interim meeting)
Conference Committee on International Conventions/ The committee requested the staff secretary to set up an
Regional Forums discussion of an anonymity-protected interim meeting by February 7, 2024. The committee is
photo of the flag ceremony to be taken at the 2025 requesting information regarding sales and projections
International Convention. of the options and how these ideas can be completed for

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the interim meeting. At this meeting we are presenting The committee discussed having non-anonymity pro-
to the trustees’ IC-RF Committee the fact that we need to tected video recording from the 2025 International
consider the 3 Big Meeting Product separately from idea Convention for archival purposes. Our GSO Archivist
of virtual sessions. shared, as standard practice from historical internation-
To that end, the following information is still valid for al conventions, the Archives department is provided
the committee’s consideration of a proposed product non-anonymity protected video recordings of the event
offering and the cost for this product for an “Anonymity for archival purposes and it is not open for access,
protected video product of the 3 Big Meetings.” just internal use. There was non-anonymity protected
As this has turned into a product, the final price will film footage of the 1960 IC and for years there were
ultimately be the decision of the A.A. World Services, Inc. concerns about anonymity breaks and finally, in 1978,
Board to determine. Details about the product are: the Conference, through Floor Action, voted for it to be
maintained in the archives for archival purposes only.
2025 International Convention Big Meeting The committee discussed adding a participatory vir-
Video Product tual program session like “A.A. Around the World” as
The total cost of production is $58,000 including part of the purchase of a three Big Meetings product or
the anonymity protection editing and the hosting on separately as a virtual session track members could pur-
A.A.’s Vimeo Channel at $2.00 per viewing and includ- chase via the registration process. On February 9, 2024,
ing a $6,000 cost of converting the sale of the product at an interim meeting of the trustees’ IC-RF Committee
to the A.A. Web Store at some point post-Convention. the members confirmed that the two ideas needed to be
Description separated.
Delayed, anonymity protected (where necessary) digi- 1. One idea is a product offering of the three Big meetings.
tal access to the 3 Big Meetings as a stand-alone prod- 2. The other concept was a true virtual session track
uct offering after the convention (suggest Wednesday/ that people could register for if unable to attend the
Thursday following). No Add Ons - no additional 2025 International Convention in person allowing for
inserts, info, or moderators, etc. broader participation across the Fellowship in this
Initially available to purchase by members through anniversary event.
convention registration process. With the help of one of your trustees’ Committee
Then for sale in the AAWS store post-Convention. members, Talley Management and the 2025 International
Convention Coordinator researched the concept and
Cost took the following into consideration:
Production/editing $50K — This base price for pro-
1. Full hybrid and do the two AA Around the World ses-
duction and editing did not change and includes the
sions only.
anonymity protection editing cost.
OR
Platform: Hosted on AA’s Vimeo Channel: Cost: ~
2. Set up one-way virtual, no hybrid (no sharing from
$2.00 per viewing.
those online) and consider doing it for all sessions in
Convert sale of the product to the AA Web Store at that room. I.e.: the 2 AA Around the World sessions
some point post-convention. Cost: $6,000 total and all others that are scheduled in the same space or
Potential price all of Saturday only if easier/significant cost difference.
Discussion has leaned towards $60.00 for the product. Rationale: This is an international convention and inter-
Breakeven concept is 1000 sold = $58,000 national travel always has difficulties, more so today with
communicable disease concerns and political unrest. The
Risks international AA community has especially embraced
Minimized given editing and delayed access. 1000 virtual meeting technology and the GSB has previously
sold represents .0023% of free Friday Flag Ceremony engaged in several ways, continuing to do so — it is very
“views” from 2015. incongruent to say it is not possible or an anonymity
The committee agreed to forward to the 2024 break for this event when the GSB itself has used virtual
Conference Committee on International Conventions/ meeting technology for several different events.
Regional Forums discussion of a delayed, anonymity Opportunities: Focus on the international element, bas-
protected, digital access stand-alone product offering ing the plan around the AA Around the World sessions,
of the 3 Big Meetings, initially available for purchase by either only or as an anchor point — allowing us to meet
members through convention registration process, then the needs of AA members around the world who cannot
for sale in the AAWS store post-Convention. attend as well as offer a true “international” convention
The committee discussed making audio recordings experience for those in the US and Canada who are opt-
available for purchase of the main sessions, separate ing for the big meeting recordings, and seeking virtual
from the three Big Meetings. TMG is seeking bids to engagement. This offers a limited and contained option
manage this standard product offering for the 2025 and provides some basis for why we picked some meet-
International Convention. ings and not others.

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Considerations: Full faces — we have done with WSM, registration fee will be determined to cover the cost of
Redela, North/South Connection, Regional Forums, production.
and the General Service Conference. Other AA events The trustees’ IC-RF Committee requested outreach
not hosted by us, including very large ones like the be completed via our trustees-at-large- Canada to ask
International Women’s Conference manage this hybrid. about this offering and what international members
Our members have come to expect this, it is normal might think of this new concept. This sharing will be
now. Notification in the room that this is a hybrid meet- received and documented by the Staff Secretary to the
ing with both video and audio, those who do not wish to Committee.
participate in that format should decline if called, refrain Staff Secretary’s note: The 2022 Membership
from capturing or recording as you would in an in person Engagement Survey was completed asking questions
meeting etc. For the folks online there are notifications of the Fellowship about the 2025 IC. This survey was
and protocols that have been developed, tested and sent to our U.S./Canada Structure and included the
evolved by supports such as Tech 12, the protocols we International GSO’s. The committee asked the staff
had for north south connection should work here. secretary to ensure that our next iteration of the 2024
Interpretation: In considering interpretation, we typically Membership Engagement Survey will be sent out to
have the sessions in-person at International Conventions the same communication channels and requested to
in English. There are other live sessions for additional add questions related to the updated products/virtual
languages. What we can propose is that with a virtual sessions that are planned to be offered for the 2025IC.
session we would ensure that we offered interpretation As this is a new virtual session track offering for an
into our primary languages, French and Spanish for par- International Convention, the trustees’ IC-RF Committee
ticipants as well as other languages of registrants via an agreed to forward the report of this information to the
interpretation product, such as Wordly, for example. Conference Committee on IC-RF for review and consider-
Capacity — we would need to know what our capabil- ation. In the past similar products, such as the anonymi-
ity is, consider how to address that. Limit registration ty-protected photograph of the flag ceremony have been
to what we can handle. We can accompany that with forwarded in this way for committee review.
info that this is the 1st time at an international, what we The committee discussed the International Convention
experience and learn will inform future events, that in 2025 Mobile App requirements related to messaging and
person attendees also experience the challenge of rooms anonymity. The secretary shared that technology and
meeting capacity etc. functionality of mobile devices have advanced signifi-
Methods of registration — Initially we thought that this cantly since 2015 and 2020, so it’s important that we
“product” would be available as part of a package with clarify specific requirements for the 2025IC App.
the 3-big-meeting product but don’t think it will be the The following questions were submitted by Technology
same audience/participants and needs to be a stand- Services requested the committee to provide answers
alone option. and insight so that the GSO can plan to complete the
Registration fee — through the main registration pro- 2025IC Mobile App project effectively.
cess. If registration is limited by capacity, and costs 1. As a key learning from 2015, attendees were able to
are known, it would be easy to set a break-even price. update a profile with their name and headshot, which
As this has turned into a virtual session track the final were visible to other attendees. The committee decid-
registration prices will ultimately be the decision trust- ed that no profile functionality should be included in
ees’ IC-RF Committee to determine. The budget for the the 2025IC Mobile app.
2025 International Convention will need to be revised to 2. Should the 2025IC app allow, at a minimum, for loca-
include new expenses that would be supported by the tion tracking to be optional as with most modern-day
attendees of the event as normal. applications; however, 2025IC app will not be able to
The committee was provided two vendor estimates turn off location tracking on the mobile device itself
which include a scaled down and scaled up version of — only the device owner can do that with the native
the event. device settings — and attendees will be able to lever-
1. The scaled-down version would be one 90-minute ses- age other mobile device functionality that uses this
sion on Friday and another on Saturday. location information. The committee decided that
2. The scaled-up version would be four 90-minute ses- location tracking should be included in the 2025IC
sion on Friday and Saturday, or twelve hours of con- Mobile App.
tent that virtual attendees could enjoy. 3. What level of sharing should be possible in the 2025IC
The committee agreed with the concept of the scaled app? For example, should attendees be able to share a
up two-day, eight session virtual track for people who link to, or screenshot of, session information via text,
are unable to attend the 2025 International Convention email, etc.? Should the app restrict the ability to take
in person. The discussion included that the virtual ses- a screenshot? The committee decided that the taking
sions would be an estimated $85,000 to complete. The and sharing of screen shots is ok, like the functionality
cost would be self-supported via the members who reg- already used in our Meeting Guide App regarding the
istered to participate in the virtual session track. A final sharing of meeting information with others.

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Regional Forums No Special or Local Forums have been requested for

In 2023, Regional Forums have been held in the 2024 or 2025.
Northeast, West Central, Southwest and East Central The following Regional Forums are scheduled for
Regions. Attendance at the 2023 Regional Forums 2024:
totaled 1,208, including 827 first-time attendees. General
1. Western Canada Regional Forum: May 10-12,
Service Board participants at the 2023 Forums included
Prestige Vernon Lodge, Vernon B.C., Canada
18 trustees, 4 AA Grapevine directors, 4 A.A. World
Services directors, 4 employees of the General Service 2. Pacific Regional Forum: July 12-14, Westgate Resort
Office, and 7 special workers from GSO and Grapevine. & Casino, Las Vegas, Nevada
Each Forum offered an opportunity to foster commu- 3. Eastern Canada Regional Forum: August 23-25,
nication and trust. There were several sharing sessions, Delta Hotels by Marriott, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
workshops and presentations at each forum which 4. Southeast Regional Forum: December 6-8, Golden
enabled the exchange of information between Board Nugget, Biloxi, Mississippi
members, staff and attendees.
The committee reviewed and accepted the summaries
Notable events included a full forum writing workshop
of the evaluation questionnaires for the 2023 Northeast,
at the West Central Regional Forum that provided all
West Central, Southwest and East Central Regional
attendees the opportunity to hear an indigenous member
Forums. The questionnaires along with a summary of
share their story. They also provided valuable informa-
remarks have been included as background for the 2024
tion to all attendees on how to write and submit their sto-
Conference Committee on International Conventions/
ries. At the Southwest regional forum, the AA Grapevine
Regional Forums.
Director and the editor of La Viña gave their presenta-
In July 2023 the committee appointed the IC/RF
tions in Spanish with English interpretation. Lastly, the
Subcommittee. The Scope of the subcommittee was
topics of inclusivity and unity were laced through all the
defined: 1) To refine and improve the agenda for forum
forums. The forum season ended in East Central where
weekends for greatest effectiveness. 2) To identify all
two alternate delegates presented on “Unity-Trusting Our
opportunities for cost savings in terms of scheduling,
Trusted Servants.”
participation, accessibility, and translation needs. 3) To
The committee reviewed and accepted the Regional
explore opportunities to more effectively communicate
Forums Schedule for 2024-2025.
with the fellowship who are outside the Regional Forum
The committee was asked to look for cost savings
room through hybrid or virtual options.
wherever possible. The committee reviewed and accept-
The subcommittee forwarded a report of the work
ed a revised General Service Board participation schedule
completed and recommended that the subcommittee be
for 2024 Regional Forums reflecting a reduced number of
reconstituted in July 2024 to continue the work. Specific
attendees. A revised budget was reviewed and forwarded
suggestions included: to provide bullet points identify-
to the trustees’ Finance and Budgetary Committee that
ing the content that each presentation should cover to
reflected a $48,000 savings.
avoid duplication, consider the length of each session
and the placement on the program, ask the trustees’
IC-RF Committee to consider if any of the Regional
Forum content would be better delivered virtually and
subsequently plan to forward the discussion to the 75th
General Service Conference Committee on IC-RF for
consideration and feedback and consider all possible
cost-saving options.
Joyce S., Chair
Staff Report: The International Convention assignment
entails coordinating the myriad details involved in pro-
ducing the A.A. International Convention, held every
five years. Working with four committees — Trustees,
Conference, GSO Planning and Volunteer Welcome
— the International Convention coordinator is respon-
sible for bringing the Convention to life and ensuring
that thousands of A.A.s can share and celebrate A.A.’s
Anniversary.
The goal of an International Convention is to let the
world know that Alcoholics Anonymous is alive, flourish-
ing, and available as a community resource locally and
internationally.
Plans proceed apace for the 2025 International
Convention, which will be July 3 – 6, 2025, in Vancouver,

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BC, Canada. The Convention theme, chosen from sugges- continued since 2006, with nine being held to date. The
tions sent in by the Fellowship, is “90 Years: Language General Service Board continues to encourage regions to
of the Heart.” support Local and Special Forums which are structured
Throughout the Convention week, more than 4,000 to meet cultural, accessibility and population consider-
local A.A.s, coordinated by the Vancouver Welcome ations within their own A.A. communities. The trustees’
Committee, will greet visitors from around the world. International Conventions/Regional Forums Committee
The 2025 International Convention will kick-off with a continues to annually approve, at its July meeting, trav-
“Block Party” with dances and celebrations flowing in el of up to two members of the General Service Board,
and around the Vancouver Convention Centre and local directors of the AAWS or Grapevine Boards or the GSO
hotels in the downtown Vancouver area. or Grapevine staff at up to four Local Forums per year.
During the day on Friday and Saturday the Vancouver The General Service Board agreed in 2017 to re-im-
Convention Centre and local hotels in the downtown plement Special Forums. Special Forums are designed
Vancouver area will be packed with Workshops, Panels, for remote, sparsely populated or urban areas to serve
Regional Meetings, Topic Meetings and Marathons. A.A. members who would not normally be able to attend
Approximately 750 speakers will participate in over a Regional Forum as well as when there is an expressed
200 meetings. Friday night, Saturday night and Sunday need based on culture, language or geography.
morning all attendees will come together for the Big
The staff member on the A.A. Regional Forums
Meetings in the BC Place Stadium, a comfortable walk or
assignment serves as co-secretary to the trustees’ and
short ride away from the Vancouver Convention Centre.
Conference International Conventions/Regional Forums
The traditional flag ceremony of nations in attendance
Committees.
will take place at the Friday night meeting in the stadium
and on Saturday night, Long timers, chosen from the hat, Eileen A.
will share about their years of experience, strength and LITERATURE
hope in Alcoholics Anonymous.
Information about the 2025 International Convention Trustees’ Report: The trustees’ Literature Committee
is available on GSO’s website, and will be updated as we convened for three quarterly meetings and three interim
move ahead. Registration and housing information will be meetings following the 2023 General Service Conference.
mailed to groups and trusted servants around the world This report provides a summary of the activities of the
in August 2024. Registration will open in September trustees’ Literature Committee since the 2023 General
2024, both online and postal mail. Excitement is building Service Conference, including projects resulting from
as A.A.’s 90th Anniversary celebratory event draws near! Advisory Actions and Committee Considerations of the
73rd General Service Conference.
Staff Report: The staff member serving the Regional
Forums assignment assists with the coordination of Completed projects:
content and programming which makes up Regional • Literature Committee Workbook (awaiting publication
Forums, Local Forums and Special Forums held in the date from Publishing).
U.S. and Canada. Forum weekends foster wider commu- • Sharing from Fellowship regarding writings by A.A.
nication, understanding and trust among A.A. groups, Founders (report submitted to the 2024 Conference
members and trusted servants in a region, the General
Committee on Finance as per EDW).
Service Board, A.A. World Services, Inc., AA Grapevine
Corporate Board, and AA Grapevine and General Service As of January 25, 2024, a total of 1,171 responses
Office staff. were received via online and postal mail. It was noted
Upon the invitation of each region, the General Service that approximately 2/3rds of the responses came from
Board holds Regional Forums in each region every two individual members, with the remaining representing
years. The locations for Regional Forums are decided sharing from group, district, or area discussions. The
upon by each region and areas as well as GSO. breakdown by region:
The Regional Forums staff member coordinates with Online (region/area unknown) 263
Forum programming, literature displays, newsletters East Central 80
and final reports. Presentation and workshop topics are
West Central 15
suggested by attendees and decided upon jointly by area
Western Canada 6
delegates, GSO staff and the regional trustee. Production
Eastern Canada 13
of the annual Regional Forum flyers as well as distribu-
Southeast 264
tion of individual Forum registration forms to trusted
Northeast 154
servants in each region is handled by the staff member.
Additionally, the staff member works closely with the Pacific 247
Area Contact and the Volunteer Chair of each Forum who Southwest 94
is responsible for the coordination of local volunteers to International* 35
assist during Regional Forum weekends. *Received a response explaining that the correspon-
While “Additional” Forums were discontinued by the dence was directed to members in the U.S./Canada
General Service Board as of 2016, Local Forums have structure.

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The committee discussed and agreed to develop and on Literature the art samples as an addition to the
distribute another letter to be sent to the Fellowship update report.
to clarify the intent of the original letter (e.g., • Progress report: Revisions to the pamphlet “Questions
designed to help inform area discussions — through and Answers on Sponsorship.”
Conference process/delegates, not a survey). The
• Annual matrix of recovery literature.
committee also discussed and agreed to distribute
to the Regional Trustees the sharing received to date • Consider a request that the words “Donation” and
so that they can distribute to the respective Area “Contribution” be swapped under Warranty One
delegates. (Note that this direction was subsequently in “The Twelve Concepts Illustrated” pamphlet.
revised to distribution directly to the Area Delegates (Conference Committee on Literature)
and to regional trustees only if the correspondence did Additional items that were reviewed, discussed, and
not indicate an Area.) forwarded to the 2024 General Service Conference:
Draft manuscript / pamphlet submitted to the • Progress report on revisions to the pamphlet “Do You
2024 Conference Committee on Literature: Think You’re Different?” (Conference Committee on
• Translation of the book Alcoholics Anonymous into Trustees via EDW)
plain and simple language. • Subsequent to the submission of the progress report,
• “A.A. for the Black and African American Alcoholic” the trustees’ committee began a discussion on how
(retitled “Black in A.A.: Experience, Strength and best to reach underserved members. For example,
Hope.”) focused methods like online writing workshops. It was
also discussed that consideration should be given to
Progress reports and additional items submitted to
revamping the “call out for stories” announcements
the 2024 Conference Literature Committee:
to make them less dense, and more reader friendly.
• Progress report: Revision to the pamphlet “The Twelve
The Trustees’ Literature Committee agreed to contin-
Steps Illustrated.”
ue discussions.
• Progress report: Revision of the pamphlet “A.A. for
PAI #30: A request to develop a pamphlet enti-
the Native North American.” Subsequent to the sub-
tled “Experience, Strength, and Hope: A.A. for the
mission of the progress report, the committee agreed
Transgender Alcoholic.” (Conference Committee on
to extend the story submission deadline to April 30,
Corrections via EDW)
2024. It was also reported that the subcommittee
continues to meet monthly with work on the project PAI #43: A request to develop a pamphlet on A.A. and
moving along apace. the Unhoused Person that specifically addresses alco-
holism, what A.A. is and is not; and includes personal
• Progress report: Development of the Fourth Edition of
stories from A.A. members who have experienced
the book Alcohólicos Anónimos - Spanish. Subsequent
homelessness. (Conference Committee on CPC via
to the submission of the progress report, it was report-
EDW)
ed that the subcommittee continues to meet monthly
with work on the project moving along apace. PAI #74: A request to develop a pamphlet for Asian
and Asian-American alcoholics with stories of experi-
• Progress report: Development of the Fifth Edition of
ence, strength and hope from other Asians and Asian-
the book Alcoholics Anonymous. Subsequent to the sub-
Americans. (Grapevine Committee via EDW)
mission of the progress report, it was reported that the
tracking sheet has been updated to accurately reflect The Committee discussed the following
the current status of stories received, stories read and proposed agenda items, and did not forward to
stories remaining to be processed. Approximately the 2024 General Service Conference for the
2,100 submissions have been reviewed (with less reasons noted below:
than 200 submissions remaining to be processed for PAI#14: The committee considered a request that
review), of which approximately 160 have been char- the translation of the first 164 pages of the French 2nd
acterized as “keepers.” The goal is to have 150 viable edition (1989) takes precedence over the translation of
stories — so the project is on track. the 4th edition of the French version of the Big Book of
• Progress report: Video animation of the pamphlet Alcoholics Anonymous and therefore, that the transla-
“The Twelve Concepts Illustrated.” tion of the 3rd French edition be that of the French 5th
• Progress report: Video adaptation of the pamphlet edition and asked the staff secretary to forward this
”Too Young?” Subsequent to the submission of the item to AAWS Publishing.
progress report, the committee reviewed three art PAI#12: The committee considered a request to cease
samples designed to show the direction of the graph- the rewriting of the Big Book into plain and simple lan-
ics for the “Too Young?” video project. The commit- guage and took no action. The committee noted that
tee discussed that the designs should stay clear from the project is in its final stages to be presented to the
stereotypes and that obtaining feedback from young 74th General Service Conference and that Conference
people (the targeted audience) may be beneficial. The procedures already provide a process for feedback as
committee agreed to forward to the 2024 Conference to the direction of the project.

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PAI#20: The committee considered a request that PAI#83: The committee considered a request to cease
AAWS/GSO stop the development of the plain language all further action to develop the plain language transla-
Big Book and took no action. The committee noted tion of the Big Book and took no action. The commit-
that AAWS/GSO’s work on the plain language Big Book tee noted that the project is in its final stages to be
is at the request of the General Service Conference via presented to the 74th General Service Conference and
Conference Advisory Action. that Conference procedures already provide a process
PAI#47: The committee considered a request to halt for feedback as to the direction of the project.
the process of the plain and simple language translation PAI#91: The committee considered a request that
of the book Alcoholics Anonymous Fourth Edition and AA World Services cease and desist all work on the
took no action. The committee noted that the project plain language translation of the Big Book of Alcoholics
is in its final stages to be presented to the 74th General Anonymous until satisfactorily addressing through a
Service Conference and that Conference procedures formal vote and took no action. The committee noted
already provide a process for feedback as to the direc- that AA World Services’ work on the plain language
tion of the project. Big Book is at the request of the General Service
Conference via Conference Advisory Action.
PAI#49: The committee considered a request that
the publication and distribution of the book [plain lan- PAI#99: The committee considered a request that the
current revision of our Big Book be reconsidered and
guage Big Book] be halted until and when the Fellowship
took no action. The committee noted that the project
as a whole has a chance to review it and approve its
is in its final stages to be presented to the 74th General
usage and took no action. The committee noted that
Service Conference and that Conference procedures
the General Service Conference serves as a “group
already provide a process for feedback as to the direc-
conscience” for the U.S./Canada structure and that
tion of the project.
current Conference procedures provide a process for
feedback as to the direction of the project. PAI#114: The committee considered a request that
the 74th General Service Conference discontinue any
PAI#54: The committee considered a request that the progress toward developing a plain language version
current revision of our Big Book [plain and simple lan- of our basic text Alcoholics Anonymous and took no
guage) be reconsidered and took no action. The com- action. The committee noted that the project is in its
mittee noted that the project is in its final stages to be final stages to be presented to the 74th General Service
presented to the 74th General Service Conference and Conference and that Conference procedures already
that Conference procedures already provide a process provide a process for feedback as to the direction of
for feedback as to the direction of the project. the project.
PAI#58: The committee considered a request to cease PAI#59: The committee considered a request that
all further action to develop the plain language transla- all considerations, discussions, and actions below the
tion of the Big Book and took no action. The commit- Service Structure level of the groups of Alcoholics
tee noted that the project is in its final stages to be Anonymous pertaining to the change, rewording, modi-
presented to the 74th General Service Conference and fication, alteration, or extension of the Twelve Steps of
that Conference procedures already provide a process Alcoholics Anonymous related to the Plain Language Big
for feedback as to the direction of the project. Book translation be discontinued and took no action.

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The committee noted that the project is in its final procedures provide a process for feedback as to the
stages to be presented to the 74th General Service direction of the project.
Conference and that Conference procedures provide a PAI#85 and #56: The committee considered requests
process for feedback as to the direction of the project. that the Twelve Steps from the book Alcoholics
PAI#15: The committee considered a request that the Anonymous in the First, Second, Third, and Fourth edi-
new language translation of the Big Book be treated as tions remain as originally written in the First, Second,
Conference-approved literature, not a translation and Third, and Fourth editions; and that the proposed side
took no action. The committee noted that the term by side comparison in the current draft of the Plain and
“Conference-approved” describes all written or audio- Simple translation of the Twelve Steps be removed; and
visual material approved by the Conference and that that no other translation of the Twelve Steps be written
characterizing the plain language Big Book as a “trans- for the proposed Plain and Simple Book and took no
lation” does not alter the fact that the material will go action. The committee noted that the project is in its
before the Conference for review and approval.
final stages to be presented to the 74th General Service
PAI #45: The committee considered a request that Conference and that Conference procedures provide a
changes made by the 71st General Service Conference: process for feedback as to the direction of the project.
Advisory Action 18 for changes to page 117 phrase
PAI#53: The committee considered a request to not
“opposite sex” with the word “partner”, Advisory Action
19 changes to page 66, “No one wants to be angry enough change the wording of the 12 Steps in the plain lan-
to murder, lustful enough to rape, gluttonous enough to guage Big Book, without written consent of no less than
ruin his health” with “No one want to commit the deadly three-quarters of the A.A. groups, as required by our
sins of anger, lust or gluttony” in the book Twelve Steps Conference charter, GSB Bylaws and October 2022 TABB
and Twelve Traditions, be returned to their original text. Subcommittee Report pertaining to changes to the word-
Note: This would include the Introduction be returned ing of the 12 Steps in the plain language Big Book and
to its original text and took no action. The committee took no action. The committee noted that the project
noted that the 2023 Committee Consideration request- is in its final stages to be presented to the 74th General
ing input from the Fellowship regarding changes to the Service Conference and that Conference procedures
writings of A.A. co-founders is currently being imple- provide a process for feedback as to the direction of
mented, which will allow for wide Fellowship sharing the project.
and discussion regarding this topic. PAI#50: The committee considered a request that
PAI#16: The committee considered a request that no portion of the Preface, the Forwards, the Doctor’s
Area Delegates attending the 2024 General Service Opinion, Chapters 1-11 in their entirety, Doctor Bob’s
Conference receive a copyrighted, working version of Nightmare and the 7 Appendices as they currently
the plain language Big Book to review and bring back to appear in the book Alcoholics Anonymous (4th Edition)
their respective Area assemblies without taking a vote be deleted, rewritten, or translated into plain and simple
to accept the version, thus allowing that perspectives, language as has been proposed to the General Service
reactions and proposed amendments to the version may Conference and took no action. The committee noted
have time to be culled from the A.A. groups, through that the project is in its final stages to be present-
their GSRs and took no action. The committee noted ed to the 74th General Service Conference and that
that current Conference procedures provide a process Conference procedures provide a process for feedback
for feedback as to the direction of the project, while as to the direction of the project.
protecting the integrity of A.A. draft literature.
PAI#42: The committee considered a request that
PAI #111: The committee considered a request for a
no other translation of the Twelve Steps be written
unified edition that physically binds the original A.A. Big
for the proposed Plain and Simple Book and took no
Book text (pg. 1-164) and the plain language translation
action. The committee noted that the project is in its
into one volume, with the current AA Big Book text on
the left side of page, and the plain language translation final stages to be presented to the General Service
on the right side of the page and took no action. The Conference and that Conference procedures provide a
committee noted that the project is in its final stages process for feedback as to the direction of the project.
to be presented to the General Service Conference PAI#11: The committee considered a request to
and that Conference procedures provide a process for rescind the changes made to the book Twelve Steps
feedback as to the direction of the project. and Twelve Traditions by the 71st GSC so the historical
PAI#32: The committee considered a request that the content of Bill’s writings can remain with the Fellowship
plain and simple version of the Big Book currently under of Alcoholics Anonymous and took no action. The com-
development should not contain the phrases “Alcoholics mittee noted that the 2023 Committee Consideration
Anonymous” or “Big Book” in its title or any subtitles requesting input from the Fellowship regarding chang-
and took no action. The committee noted that the es to the writings of A.A. co-founders is currently being
project is in its final stages to be presented to the implemented, which will allow for wide Fellowship
74th General Service Conference and that Conference sharing and discussion regarding this topic.

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PAI#22: The committee considered a request to PAI #100: The committee considered the request that
rescind the changes made by the 71st GSC to certain the General Service Board shall, in all instances affecting
phrases on pages 66 and 117 of the book Twelve Steps A.A. core literature (i.e.: first 164, 12 Steps, 12 Traditions,
and Twelve Traditions so the historical content of Bill’s 12 Concepts, Promises, Preamble) commission a survey
writings can remain with the Fellowship of Alcoholics of groups within Districts and Areas throughout the
Anonymous and took no action. The committee noted United States for the purpose of obtaining a true repre-
that the 2023 Committee Consideration requesting sentative perspective of A.A. members at the group level
input from the Fellowship regarding changes to the regarding their wishes in respect to the proposed chang-
writings of A.A. co-founders is currently being imple- es and took no action. The committee noted that the
mented, which will allow for wide Fellowship sharing 2023 Committee Consideration requesting input from
and discussion regarding this topic. the Fellowship regarding changes to the writings of
PAI #24: The committee considered a request to restore A.A. co-co-founders is currently being implemented,
the 12X12 to the pre-71st Conference text on pages 117 which will allow for wide Fellowship sharing and dis-
and 66 and took no action. The committee noted that cussion regarding this topic.
the 2023 Committee Consideration requesting input PAI #79: The committee considered the request to
from the Fellowship regarding changes to the writings cease and desist actions taken by AAWS and the AA
of A.A. co-founders is currently being implemented, Grapevine that follow the degenderization edict explained
which will allow for wide Fellowship sharing and dis- in the email of GSO Executive Editor (September 3, 2020)
cussion regarding this topic. and took no action. The committee noted that the cur-
rent Conference structure and process provides a path
PAI#107: The committee considered a request to
for guidance from the Fellowship as it relates to this
restore the text of Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions,
topic, specifically recognizing Advisory Actions (1986
reversing the changes made by the 2021 GSC and
and 1992) advising that with the exception of Bill W.’s
insert a new forward to the “Twelve and Twelve” and
writings “AAWS editorial staff continue to degender-
took no action. The committee noted that the 2023
ize A.A literature…for example ‘staffing’ the booth as
Committee Consideration requesting input from the opposed to ‘manning’ the booth.’”
Fellowship regarding changes to the writings of A.A.
co-founders is currently being implemented, which PAI #17: The committee considered the request that
will allow for wide Fellowship sharing and discussion the editors of the 5th edition of the book [Alcoholics
regarding this topic. Anonymous] insert a footnote in Appendix II,
Spiritual Experience, after the quotation and the name
PAI #31: The committee considered a request that the of Herbert Spencer as follows: “There is a principle
original wording on pages 66 and 117 of Twelve Steps which is a bar against all information, which is proof
and Twelve Traditions be restored, the next time the against all arguments and which cannot fail to keep
book is reprinted and took no action. The commit- a man in everlasting ignorance — that principle is
tee noted that the 2023 Committee Consideration contempt prior to investigation.” — Herbert Spencer
requesting input from the Fellowship regarding chang- and asked the staff secretary to forward this item to
es to the writings of A.A. co-founders is currently being AAWS Publishing.
implemented, which will allow for wide Fellowship
PAI #3: The committee considered the request to
sharing and discussion regarding this topic.
change the wording of the current Conference Charter
PAI #55, #36, #46 and #84: The committee considered to read: The content and words of the book Alcoholics
requests that changes to pages 117 and 66 in the book Anonymous including the first 164 pages, the Preface, the
Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions made by the 71st Forewords, the Doctor’s Opinion, Dr. Bob’s Nightmare,
General Service Conference be returned to their original AA Number 3 and the Appendices all remain as they
text (this would include the introduction be returned to its appear in September 2022 and will not change even
original text) and took no action. The committee noted with the written consent of any percentage of the A.A.
that the 2023 Committee Consideration requesting groups, the General Service Conference, a Publishing
input from the Fellowship regarding changes to the Company or any other person or entity. Additionally, no
writings of A.A. co-founders is currently being imple- change in Article 12 of the Charter or in A.A. Tradition
mented, which will allow for wide Fellowship sharing or in the Twelve Steps of A.A. may be made with less
and discussion regarding this topic. than a written consent of three-quarters of the A.A.
PAI #40: The committee considered a request that groups, as described in the resolution adopted by the
changes to page 66 in the book Twelve Steps and 1955 Conference and Convention and took no action.
Twelve Traditions be returned to its original text and The committee noted that this requested change to
took no action. The committee noted that the 2023 the Conference Charter is not a widely expressed need
Committee Consideration requesting input from the from the Fellowship.
Fellowship regarding changes to the writings of A.A. PAI #28: The committee considered a request to add a
co-founders is currently being implemented, which new appendix to the book Alcoholics Anonymous: “The
will allow for wide Fellowship sharing and discussion principles of Alcoholics Anonymous” (this list would dis-
regarding this topic. play the one-word principle of each of the Twelve Steps,

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Twelve Traditions, and the Twelve Concepts for World PAI #86: The committee considered a request to cre-
Service) and took no action. The committee noted that ate a workbook to accompany the Big Book and took
there is no one way to interpret spiritual principles and no action. The committee noted a 72nd GSC PAI that
through reading A.A. literature and sharing with other proposed creating a Big Book Workbook in lieu of
A.A. members, each alcoholic has the opportunity to the Plain Language Big Book. Although the trustees’
come to an understanding of what the individual Steps/ Literature Committee took no action given the prog-
Traditions/Concepts mean in their own experience. ress of the Plain Language Big Book, it was discussed
PAI #105: The committee considered a request to at that time that the committee would explore the
change the wording in the pamphlet “Problems Other option of workbooks following Conference approval
Than Alcohol” on page 3 from “genuine alcoholics histo- and publication of the Plain Language Big Book. (This
ry” to “alcoholics history” and asked the staff secretary topic will be added to the January 2024 committee
to forward this item to AAWS Publishing for consider- agenda.)
ation, including exploring alternative terms. PAI #117: The committee considered a request to
PAI #106: The committee considered a request regard- establish a New Book Exploratory Committee to bring
ing page 135 in the chapter “The Family Afterward” to the 2025 Conference Committee on Literature a
in the Big Book, Alcoholics Anonymous and what it procedure for writing a completely new, comprehen-
says about smoking, to consider either eliminating the sive basic text that talks more about A.A. and its Three
paragraph or adding an appendix which summarizes Legacies and took no action. The committee noted
and references scientific studies, or consider a pamphlet that there was not a widely expressed need from the
which includes A.A. members’ experiences with smoking Fellowship. The committee also recognized that these
in recovery and took no action. The committee noted topics are covered in A.A. literature, including service
that currently, there is not a widely expressed need material.
from the Fellowship. Other items discussed included the following:
PAI #94: The committee considered a request to • Draft pamphlet based upon A.A.’s Three Legacies:
restore the paragraph deleted from the story “Freedom The committee discussed the 2023 Committee
from Bondage” in the Fourth Edition Big Book and Consideration requesting that the material gathered
asked the staff secretary to forward this item to AAWS for the draft pamphlet be instead made available to
Publishing for their consideration. the Fellowship as service material. Given that Service
PAI #39: The committee considered a request to change Material falls within the purview of the Group Services
the wording in “How it Works” from men and women to assignment, the request was forwarded to the Group
“people” and took no action. The committee noted Services assignment. It was subsequently reported
that the 2023 Committee Consideration requesting that the project has been added to the implemen-
input from the Fellowship regarding changes to the tation; GSO Staff had a preliminary discussion and
writings of A.A. co-founders is currently being imple- agreed to form a working group to review. Progress
mented, which will allow for wide Fellowship sharing reports will be provided accordingly as work progress-
and discussion regarding this topic. es on this item.
PAI #27: The committee considered a request to • The A.A. Service Manual: The GSO Staff on Group
review and consider a submitted document entitled Services (also serving as Secretary to the Conference
“Considerations in the Preservation of Primary A.A. Committee on Report and Charter), provided the com-
Literature in its Original Form” and took no action. mittee with timely updates related to revisions to The
The committee noted that the 2023 Committee A.A. Service Manual. Most recently, on January 27,
Consideration requesting input from the Fellowship 2024, it was reported that suggested revisions from all
regarding changes to the writings of A.A. co-founders three Boards have been included in the draft and will
is currently being implemented, which will allow for be forwarded to the 2024 Conference Committee on
wide Fellowship sharing and discussion regarding this Report and Charter.
topic. • Workbook to accompany the book Alcoholics Anonymous:
PAI #72: The committee considered a request to devel- The committee discussed a proposal to develop a work-
op a pamphlet which focuses on “A.A. burnout” and took book to accompany the book Alcoholics Anonymous to
no action. The committee noted that this topic can be “facilitate Big Book learning” and took no action. The
included in current service material and/or covered in committee noted that it may be premature to consider
a Grapevine article or podcast. a workbook at this time because the newly developed
PAI #75: The committee considered a request to devel- Plain Language Big Book (being reviewed by this
op a pamphlet listing all the different service positions year’s Conference) was designed to facilitate under-
already identified and defined in A.A. pamphlets, work- standing of the book Alcoholics Anonymous.
books, and service material at the group level and below • Process/logistics regarding Conference review of the
and include the responsibilities for each and took no plain language Big Book: The committee discussed the
action. The committee noted that there is not a widely draft logistics and timeline submitted by the Plain
expressed need from the Fellowship. Language Big Book subcommittee. The committee also

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reviewed the draft “letter of understanding” outlining of the A.A. World Services Publishing Department.
the confidentiality guidelines related to review of the Current projects include but are not limited to the devel-
manuscript (to ensure A.A.’s legal rights in the regis- opment of a plain and simple translation of Alcoholics
tration of the approved final draft of the manuscript Anonymous; the development of a 4th Edition Alcohólicos
with the U.S. Copyright Office, maintain the integrity Anónimos; the development of a 5th Edition Alcoholics
of A.A. literature and ultimately our most valued asset Anonymous; revisions/updates to the pamphlets “A.A.
which is A.A. unity). After thoughtful discussion, the for the Black and African American Alcoholic,” “Do You
committee approved the letter of understanding and Think You’re Different?,” “A.A. for the Native North
agreed on a timeline and logistics as to the Conference
American Alcoholic,” “The Twelve Steps Illustrated,” and
Committee on Literature review and discussion of the
“Questions and Answers on Sponsorship.” Additional
manuscript, as well as the full Conference review of
the manuscript, as follows: projects underway include the video adaption of the
pamphlets “The Twelve Concepts Illustrated” and “Too
The Conference Literature Committee will have the Young?”
opportunity to review the manuscript during their
The Literature desk receives and responds to corre-
committee session on Saturday, April 12, during
spondence from A.A. members and groups about A.A.
Conference week. All other Conference members will
be scheduled for a two-hour time slot to review the literature. When appropriate, inquiries are passed along
draft manuscript. Noting that the review room will to GSO’s Member Services department, Publishing staff
accommodate a capacity of 30, the review room will and/or Archives staff.
be open: Contact is maintained with all current area, district
and intergroup/central office literature chairpersons.
Sunday, 6:30 am – 8:30 am, *9:15 pm – 11:15 pm
Each newly elected literature chairperson receives a wel-
Monday-Wednesday,6:30 am – 8:30 am come letter and service material to assist the chairperson
*In consideration of those Conference members in this vital responsibility. Currently a total of 1,254 area,
adjusting to the Eastern time zone (i.e., members district and intergroup/central office literature chairper-
travelling from the West Coast), an evening slot on sons are listed with GSO.
Sunday is provided. As to Box 4-5-9, the newsletter is currently under the
Irma V. B.-N., Chair purview of GSO’s Communications Department (along
with all other GSO newsletters); however, responsibility
Staff Report: As secretary to the trustees’ and Conference
for administration of the Box 4-5-9 Calendar of Events
Committees on Literature, as well as the AAWS Publishing
has remained with the literature assignment.
Committee, the Literature coordinator supports the
The Literature staff assistant is invaluable in sup-
efforts of the editors, writers and illustrators for the
reviewing, updating and revising of new and existing porting and helping facilitate the responsibilities of this
recovery pamphlets, books and audiovisuals, in accor- aspect of the assignment. As literature is essential in
dance with Advisory Actions / Committee Considerations helping to carry our message of recovery, this remains a
from the General Service Conference. The final design challenging and rewarding assignment.
and production of all this material is under the auspices Sandra W.

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NOMINATING • That Nikki O. serve as Nontrustee Director on the AA

Trustees’ Report: The trustees’ Nominating Committee Grapevine Corporate Board, to succeed Cindy F.
(TNC) was first appointed by the chair of the General Appointed Committee Members (ACMs): The committee
Service Board on January 18, 1944. At that time, pri- reviewed updates on the status of ACMs serving on trust-
mary responsibilities were to “establish criteria for and ees’ committees of the GSB for the year 2023-2024 and
to review résumés of trustee candidates and directors approved the following trustee committee recommenda-
and to make recommendations regarding electoral pro- tions:
cedures and matters which may affect the composition • The committee approved the recommendation from
of the Board and election to it.” (History and Actions of the trustees’ committee on Public Information that
the TNC.) Kirk H., Las Vegas, Nevada be appointed for an
Since that time, the TNC generally meets three times additional one-year term to serve as an Appointed
each year and, with the formation of the General Service Committee Member beginning with the July 2024
Conference (GSC) in 1951, began to meet annually with General Service Board weekend.
the Conference Committee on Trustees. The responsi- • The committee approved the recommendation from
bilities of the committee grew over time to encompass the trustees’ committee on Literature that Gerry
criteria for all vacancies, whether in the ranks of trustees Robinson, East Helena, Montana be appointed for an
or among key service directors and staff members. additional one-year term to serve as an Appointed
The committee met thirteen (13) times since the 73rd Committee Member beginning with the July 2024
General Service Conference. General Service Board weekend.
Activities of this committee in the past year: • The committee approved the recommendation from
Regional Trustee elections: The committee reviewed the trustees’ committee on Literature that Cesar
all candidates submitted for West Central and Western Flores, San Juan Capistrano, California be appoint-
Canada regional trustees and found them all eligible for ed for an additional one-year term to serve as an
the elections in April 2024. Appointed Committee Member beginning with the
General Service Board (GSB) slates: The committee July 2024 General Service Board weekend.
reviewed and recommended proposed slates of GSB • The committee approved the request from the trust-
members, officers of the board, and AA World Services ees’ Committee on Cooperation with the Professional
(AAWS) and AA Grapevine (AAGV) directors to the annu- Community/Treatment and Accessibilities for two new
al meeting of the members of the GSB in April 2024, ACMs with military background to serve as resources,
following presentation at the 2024 GSC for disapproval, beginning their term following the April 2024 GSC.
if any. Calendar of Events and Rotation schedule: The commit-
It is noted the office of Chair of the General Service tee reviewed the Calendar of Events of the trustees’
Board is vacant, currently filled on an interim basis by Nominating Committee and noted specific activities
Mike L., West Central Regional Trustee, and 1st Vice- through the 2024 General Service Conference.
Chairperson of the GSB. The committee also reviewed the current rotation
It is noted the GSB elected Scott H., past Class B trust- schedule of Board servants, noting that two trustees will
ee, following presentation to the 2024 GSC for disap- rotate in 2024, and there will be seven (7) vacancies in
proval, if any, to serve as GSB Chair following the annual 2025.
meeting of the members of the GSB in April 2024.
2024 2 Trustees rotating 2 Regional Trustees
It is noted the GSB used the Third Legacy Procedure to
select board officers for 2024. 2025 7 Trustees rotating 2 Class A Trustees
It is noted the committee conducted a search and 2 Regional Trustees
chose Dawn Klug to fill the vacancy for a Class A trustee. 1 Trustee-at-Large
2 General Service Trustees
AAWS Directors: The committee made the following
recommendation to the GSB effective following the April 2026 3 Trustees rotating 2 Regional Trustees
2024 General Service Conference: 1 General Service Trustee
• That Ken T., Northeast Regional Trustee, serve as 2027 5 Trustees rotating 2 Class A Trustees
trustee director for a two-year term on the AAWS 2 Regional Trustees
Board to succeed Cathi C., East Central Regional 1 Trustee-at-Large
Trustee. Note: The process for filling Class A Trustee vacancies in
2025 will begin following the 2024 GSC.
AAGV Directors: The committee made the following rec-
ommendation to the GSB effective following the April Preliminary 2024 budget: The committee reviewed their
2024 General Service Conference: 2024 preliminary budget and forwarded it to the trust-
• That Teresa J., Southwest Regional Trustee, serve ees’ Finance and Budgetary Committee.
as trustee director for a two-year term on the AAGV Review the 2023 Conference Committee on Trustees
Corporate Board to succeed Tom H., Southeast report: The committee reviewed and discussed the 2023
Regional Trustee. Conference Committee on Trustees’ report.

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Update on Composition, Scope and Procedures: The com- PUBLIC INFORMATION

mittee discussed approaches to review their Composition, “A.A.’s Movement-Wide Public Information
Scope and Procedures (CSP), which includes fourteen Policy,” approved by the 1956 General Service
(14) procedures related to vacancies on the General Conference (amended in 2002) states:
Service Board, corporate boards, and specific employees
at the General Service Office. In all public relationships, A.A.’s sole objective is to
help still-suffering alcoholics. Always mindful of the
Procedure No. 14 — Selection of Chairperson of the General importance of personal anonymity, we believe this can
Service Board: The committee reviewed and revised the
be done by making known to still-suffering alcoholics,
procedure to allow utilization of an outside consultant to
and to those who may be interested in their problem,
conduct background references and report to the GSB prior
our own experience as individuals and as a Fellowship
to final interviews. The suggested timeline was revised to
in learning to live without alcohol. We believe that our
allow the GSB to conduct interviews and hold executive ses-
experience should be made available freely to all who
sions at any point during the Fall Quarterly Board meeting.
express sincere interest. We believe further that all our
Update work of committee: efforts in this field should always reflect our gratitude for
Development of a procedure document for Trustee Emeriti: the gift of sobriety and our awareness that many outside
The committee expressed an interest in using a balanced of A.A. are equally concerned with the serious problem
approach to developing a procedure for selecting trustees of alcoholism.
emeriti that involves both looking back at A.A.’s history The trustees’ Committee on Public Information (PI)
and exploring the needs of the future. The chairperson
is charged with the responsibility of helping the mem-
appointed a subcommittee, Judith Ann Karam (chair),
bership carry the A.A. message of recovery through
Deb K. and Andie Moss, to continue its work from 2022
the general public to the alcoholic who still suffers. The
to create a procedure for the selection of trustee emeriti.
committee does this by recommending and coordinating
The subcommittee, after multiple robust and thought-
activities which include creating a greater public under-
ful discussions, continued its work to develop guidelines
standing of the Fellowship of Alcoholics Anonymous. In
and a role description of Trustee Emeriti.
addition to public information meetings and speaking
Review Procedures: The committee chairperson appointed to community groups, the methods include carrying
subcommittee members Ken T. (chairperson), Tom H., the message through the process of disseminating and
and Reilly K. to review the fourteen (14) current proce- exchanging information via mass media. Examples of
dures for criteria and objectives updates and format the mass media include:
procedures in a consistent, uniform manner. a. Television
Note that Procedure No. 14 — Selection of Chair of the b. Radio
General Service Board was revised and approved by the c. Newspapers
GSB at the January 2024 Board Weekend. d. Magazines
Tom H., Chair e. Social media
f. Digital media
Staff Report: The staff member rotated on this assign-
g. The internet
ment on August 23, 2022, and is responsible to the
trustees’ Nominating Committee and to the Conference The committee is responsible for producing video and
Committee on Trustees, serving as secretary to these audio public service announcements (PSAs); reviewing
committees as well as to trustees’ subcommittees. Since the development and performance of the AAWS and
the last Conference, the staff member has prepared AA Grapevine YouTube Channels; the Google Ad Grants
background, minutes, and reports for thirteen (13) trust- program; the AAWS Meeting Guide and the GSO and
ees’ committee meetings. AA Grapevine/La Viña Websites, in addition to the AA
Grapevine podcast and AA Grapevine/La Viña apps.
The staff member worked with three subcommittees
The committee is also responsible for overseeing the
to complete work of ongoing projects:
coordination of media and podcast interview requests;
• to improve recruitment tools for future Class A can- PI booths at health fairs and other community and
didates, school exhibits with local PI committees; conducting the
• to define guidelines for Trustee Emeriti, A.A. Membership Survey; and carrying A.A.’s message
• and to ensure accessibility is open to a diverse pool of through media such as developing and distributing press
candidates for trustees and directors. releases.
The staff member also coordinated the review of 2023 Conference Committee on PI Advisory Actions and
candidate résumés from the West Central and Western committee considerations — The committee reviewed
Canada service areas who made their names available to a report of the 2023 Conference Committee on Public
participate in this year’s Conference elections procedure. Information reflecting 73rd General Service Conference
The staff member on this assignment also served as Advisory Actions and committee considerations perti-
AAWS Internal Audit Committee secretary since June 2023. nent to this committee. All actionable items were set as
James H. individual agenda items.

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Comprehensive Media Plan — The committee discussed fic, particularly coming from India. A committee mem-
the need to develop an updated 2024 Comprehensive ber reported that this uptick could be attributed to the
Media Plan. The chair appointed a subcommittee to ongoing conversations they have had with the GSO in
include John W. (chair), Morgan B., and Marita R., India. More U.S. and Canada speakers had been invited
to review the Conference Committee on Public to speak at India meetings, resulting in more traffic to
Information committee consideration requesting that aa.org.
the committee: Notably, hashtags have been added to selected English
• Consider the creation of a section on how projects language videos; content that has been given hashtags
requesting user generated content, such as the Young has risen in popularity.
People’s Video Project, fit into our Comprehensive The committee also discussed the Additional
Media Plan and messaging for Alcoholics Anonymous. Committee Consideration from the 2023 Conference
The committee accepted the report of the Committee on Public Information, which suggested the
Subcommittee on 2024 CMP and agreed to forward to trustees’ Public Information Committee consider ways to
the 2024 Conference Committee on Public Information better use the YouTube channel for public information.
the 2024 Comprehensive Media Plan, which had been The committee offered suggestions and impressions
reviewed by the trustee’s Public Information committee. related to the YouTube channel, which the staff secretary
shared with the Communication Services Department.
Communication Services department reports — The com-
The committee agreed to forward to the 2024
mittee accepted the staff and Communication Services
Conference Committee on Public Information the 2023
department (CSD) reports. The staff report generated a
YouTube channel report.
discussion originating from an area on how local com-
mittees can acquire A.A. signage, banners, tabletop cov- Google Ads — The committee reviewed and accepted the
erings for consistent A.A. messaging at local A.A. public GSO Google Ads reports from the fourth quarter of 2022
information booths at fairs & events. and the first three quarters of 2023.
The committee noted that it would be helpful for PI In May 2023, our account was disconnected for
graphics templates to be accessible to local commit- unknown reasons. Investigation by members of the
tees and requested that when they become available Communications Department and trustees’ Public
(currently in development) they be added to the service Information Committee did not yield clear, consistent
committee page on aa.org. The committee suggested results as noted below.
that GSO consider providing a feedback form on the PI At first, Google support stated that the account was
service committee webpage to receive shared experience deactivated for content related to “addiction and treat-
on how these materials are being used to carry the A.A. ment,” and shared the following:
message. “There are terms in your landing page which are
not allowed as per Google’s policies. The terms are
Public Information media platforms — The committee
“Alcoholics Anonymous”, “Need help with a drinking
accepted all Media Platform reports.
problem?”, “If your drinking is out of control, A.A. can
Podcasts — The committee discussed the progress help.”
reports on the GSO Podcast. In October, the committee
I suggest you remove these content [sic] from your land-
listened to a “sizzle reel” sample of the GSO Podcast and
ing page so that the ads get approved.
noted their appreciation for the professional sound and
warmth that are evident. Also we have noticed that some of your headlines and
Throughout the year, the committee received regular descriptions are also responsible, I am sharing the head-
reports from the Director of the Communication Services lines: “Drinking too much? Too often?”, “Learn more
Department (CSD) on the progress that had been made about the Alcoholics Anonymous program and recovery
in developing the first season of the podcast, which from alcoholism.” “non-religious program of recovery
included reporting on timing, budget, staffing, podcast from alcoholism.’”
naming, external vendors (for distribution) and editorial After multiple exchanges with Google support,
direction. Communication Services staff also reached out to
The committee noted that while the current content LegitScript (a separate vendor), who on June 15, 2023,
being developed is in English, content in Spanish and stated:
French could be considered after the pilot season has “the advertising issue you are having is due to Google’s
been launched. policy change. Google’s new policy does not currently
The committee expressed enthusiasm for the launch allow advertisements by mutual support groups and
of the podcast in 2024; and agreed to forward to the crisis hotlines on their platform, even those certified by
2024 Conference Committee on Public Information a LegitScript.”
progress report on the development of the GSO podcast. A.A. was classified as a “mutual support group” for
AAWS YouTube Channel — The committee reviewed and certification as a non-profit by LegitScript. On June 21,
accepted the GSO 2023 first, second and third quarter 2023, Google support confirmed by email and phone
AAWS YouTube Channel reports. In the third quarter that “mutual support groups” are not eligible to use
YouTube report, the committee noted an uptick in traf- Google Ads. Although the policy had been in place since

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May 2018, it was not applied to our account until May The committee highlighted the following from the
2023. Google gave no additional explanation for their fourth quarter report:
action. • The most frequently visited pages on aa.org are Daily
Given the lack of consistency and clarity from Google Reflections and “Have a problem with alcohol?”
on their decision, trustees’ PI requested additional • The committee noted that this affirms the importance
research and offered to support this work to gain clarifi- of effective “carry the message” tools for those who
cation on policy, definitions, and policy implementation have yet to find us.
and delays. During this process, in September 2023, the
account was reactivated, as of the first quarter of 2024, • In addition, it is clear that large numbers of A.A.
most of the ads are again running. members appreciate the opportunity to make a daily
The Communications Department and Trustees’ PI connection with the A.A. message.
Committee do not have definitive understanding of the The committee agreed to forward to the 2024
delayed implementation of a 2018 policy or the reactiva- Conference Committee on Public Information the “2023
tion. Given the importance of making A.A. information Annual Report on AAWS GSO’s A.A. website.”
available to those who might not find it otherwise in Online Business Profiles — The committee reviewed
search results, continued engagement and investigation and accepted the 2023 second, third and four quarter
is underway. AAWS Online Business Profiles reports. Each revealed
An initial no-cost consultation by members of the that actively managing the business profiles is working
Communications Department with professional agencies as anticipated, and that as questions or comments are
to learn more and explore help in managing the account posted online, responses are drafted by GSO Staff and
did not yield insights into the temporary disconnection the Communication Services Department.
and suggested that vendor management of the ad pro- The committee agreed to forward to the 2024
gram are likely to be cost-prohibitive. Conference Committee on Public Information the “2023
The account continues to be monitored and all relevant report on AAWS Online Business Profiles.”
findings will continue to be reported through the AAWS AAGV/La Viña Website, Marketing and Podcast — The
TCS Committee and the trustees’ Committee on PI. committee reviewed and accepted the GSO 2023 first
The committee agreed to forward to the 2024 and second quarter AAGV/La Viña Website, Marketing
Conference Committee on Public Information the 2023 and Podcast reports.
Google Ads report. At the January meeting the committee reviewed
Meeting Guide App — The committee reviewed and the third and fourth quarter AAGV/La Viña Website,
accepted the GSO 2023 first and second quarter AAWS Marketing and Podcast and App reports. The AA
Meetings Guide app reports. The committee requested Grapevine Executive Editor reported when the app
more trend data going forward. launched, approximately 8,000 subscribers were brought
The committee discussed the potential impact of in when their old subscriptions were converted to
requests for international meeting support through the Grapevine Complete subscription package.
app. It was noted that the Japanese translation of the The committee agreed to forward to the 2024
Meeting Guide App interface was conducted as a pilot Conference Committee on Public Information the 2023
only. A philosophical conversation was held about this AA Grapevine and La Viña Website, Marketing, Podcast
type of request possibly setting a precedent for other and App reports.
GSOs outside the U.S./Canada requesting similar trans- AAWS Instagram Account Proposal — The committee
lation or support. Finally, there was a question about reviewed the Instagram proposal. The director of CSD
whether AAWS would consider licensing the app for reported that the current draft reflected the suggestions
use by other structures. It was noted that the report on forwarded by the additional committee consideration of
the pilot project for use of Meeting Guide app by Japan the 2023 Conference Committee on Public Information
GSO was also forwarded to the trustees’ International regarding the development of an Instagram account. The
Committee. committee agreed to forward to the 2024 Conference
The Committee reviewed and accepted the 2023 third Committee on Public Information the revised AAWS
quarter and 2024 first quarter AAWS Meeting Guide app Instagram Account Proposal
reports; and agreed to forward to the 2024 Conference Working group on Analytics Reporting —The com-
Committee on Public Information the “Meeting Guide mittee reviewed the 2023 Analytics Reporting Plan.
App 2023” report. The chair appointed a working group to include
GSO’s A.A. Website — The committee reviewed and Kirk H. (chair), David S., and Ken T. to work with
accepted the 2023 GSO A.A. Website Quarterly reports. Communication Services as the analytics reporting
The committee noted appreciation for the new FAQs plan evolves.
page as well as recent debugging work with Drupal and In October, the committee reviewed the Working
Google analytics. Group on Analytics report. It was noted that the Working
It was noted that the large increase in website traffic Group had focused on developing the analytics reporting
from Q3 to Q4 was largely a result of reporting problems process. There was a discussion of the potential advan-
in Q3. tages of a new dashboard tool, including the ease of cre-

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ating regular basic reports in three languages. The com- with continued discussion anticipated as more informa-
mittee agreed to forward to the Conference Committee tion becomes available about fiscal reporting require-
on Public Information the 2023 Analytics Working Group ments.
progress report. The committee agreed to forward to the 2024
Conference Committee on Public Information the
Public Service Announcements (PSAs):
Progress Report on Feasibility of placing PSAs on stream-
Relevance and usefulness — At the July meeting the ing platforms.
committee reviewed the current video/audio PSAs for
Mesmerize Point PSA distribution proposal — At the July
relevance and usefulness. The committee discussed the
meeting, the committee received a verbal progress
English version of the video PSA, “Tengo Esperanza”
report on the Mesmerize Point PSA distribution chan-
(“Sobriety in A.A.: Since Getting Sober, I Have Hope”)
nel. The staff secretary shared that as of July 26, 2023,
and whether the tagline, storyline and imagery remain
Mesmerize Point had started playing our PSAs in 2,193
relevant. Before a final decision is made whether to
pharmacy locations nationwide. These included six thir-
suggest retirement of the PSA, the committee requested
ty-second A.A. video PSAs in English and six in Spanish.
that analytics on the number of downloads from the AA
The vendor anticipated that across the pharmacy
website as well as the number of views on the AAWS
network, these videos, in aggregate, would have approx-
YouTube channel be reviewed at the October meeting.
imately 11,000,000 monthly impressions. The PSAs
At the October 2023 meeting, the committee resumed
began airing in 2,500 doctors’ offices the first week of
its discussion of the relevance and usefulness of audio
August 2023.
and video PSAs. The committee discussed the audio PSA
The committee discussed the third and fourth Quarter
“We Know How You Feel.” The committee requested
reports on Mesmerize Point PSA distribution report and
that the 15 second version be removed from aa.org,
noted with appreciation the potential impact of the proj-
noting that the 30 second version is a more effective and
ect given the number of views that have been reported.
accurate tool for carrying the A.A. message.
The committee noted the suggestion by Mesmerize
The committee discussed the audio PSA “All of a
Point staff to add QR codes to the PSAs; the commit-
Sudden, Everything Got Crazy.” The committee request-
tee requested that staff from Communication Services
ed that the CSD consider adding updated tag lines.
Department research on the process for adding QR codes
In a review of video Spanish-language PSA “Tengo
to our PSAs.
Esperanza,” the committee reviewed the analytics report
The committee agreed to forward to the 2024
and noted that the data indicates that this PSA is still
Conference Committee on Public Information the report
being watched and is still useful. No action will be taken.
The committee requested that the staff secretary
document the committee’s comments as part of the
2023 Report on the Relevance and Usefulness of Video
and Audio PSAs and agreed to forward it to the 2024
Conference Committee on Public Information.
Discuss feasibility research on paid placement of PSA vid-
eos on streaming platforms — The committee discussed
the feasibility study on paid placement of PSA videos on
streaming platforms. The committee requested the staff
secretary perform outreach to several vendors and devel-
op a plan detailing target audiences, analytics, and cost
for how we would begin to use such streaming platform
channels in the U.S./Canada service structure.
At the January 2024 meeting the committee discussed
the progress report on the feasibility of paid placement
of PSA videos on streaming platforms. The research indi-
cates that in order to develop a strong plan for streaming
media, any of the vendors consulted would have to be
given a budget and a target audience. Included in the
report are a couple of draft scenarios which may help to
clarify those two points.
The committee suggested that the staff secretary con-
tinue to encourage PI Chairs to work with local broad-
casters to have PSAs aired in their communities.
The committee also affirmed their perspective that
no charge broadcast media airing of PSAs should be a
priority.
In an interim meeting in March 2024, the committee
discussed PSA placement campaigns and PSA tracking,

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on Mesmerize Point video PSA distribution in pharma- tional edits and asked the staff secretary to share them
cies and medical facilities. with the Publishing Department.
A.A. Membership Survey — The committee approved The committee reviewed the draft flyer “A.A. at a
the 2022 AA Membership Survey webpage, which went Glance” and at the January 2024 meeting agreed to
“live” in January 2024 to coincide with the publication of forward it to the 2024 Conference Committee on Public
the pamphlet P-48 A.A. Membership Survey. Information.
The committee also reviewed suggestions and the Revision to “Speaking at Non-A.A. Meetings” pamphlet —
Delegate evaluation of the 2022 membership survey At the July meeting the committee reviewed a draft of
process. The staff secretary was asked to maintain these “Speaking at Non-A.A. Meetings” and requested a final
reports in the Public Information Staff Assignment files update to the graphic treatment of the cover reflecting a
to have on hand for when the next membership survey new look with a professional feel.
is initiated. At the January 2024 meeting, the committee agreed
Membership Survey Pilot using Convenience Samples — to forward to the 2024 Conference Committee on Public
The committee reviewed plans to conduct a pilot using Information “Speaking at Non-A.A. Meetings” (with a new
the same questions as 2022 AA membership survey working title), which had been previously reviewed by
which would utilize convenience samples from the A.A. the trustee’s Public Information committee.
website and Meeting Guide App. The committee agreed Discuss a revision to “Message to Teenagers” — At the
to move forward with the project. It was noted that a July meeting the committee discussed that the material,
benefit of performing convenience sampling is to objec- “A Message to Teenagers” is outdated. In addition, the
tively determine the comparability of these different committee requested the staff secretary develop a meth-
survey methodologies. The projected expense for this od to gather input from young people about how to best
convenience sample project is $8,000. update this material.
In October, the committee reviewed the progress At the October meeting, the committee discussed a
report on the Membership Survey Pilot using Convenience progress report on the flyer “A Message to Teenagers.”
Sampling, which outlined the work completed to-date, The staff secretary reported on the results of a survey
including the plan for data gathered using convenience designed to get young people’s feedback. The committee
samples collected via the Meeting Guide app and aa.org. expressed enthusiasm for forwarding the feedback to the
There was a discussion about sample size and a ques- Publishing Department so the flyer could be revised as
tion was raised about whether the survey period could quickly as possible. The committee also expressed sup-
be extended if the minimum sample size was not met port for engaging the intended audience for input into
during the scheduled data collection period. the revision and redesign of graphics and text.
The committee subsequently reviewed and accepted a At the January meeting, the committee discussed a
progress report on the Membership Survey Convenience progress report on the flyer “A Message to Teenagers.”
Sample Pilot. The committee asked the staff secretary to The committee offered suggestions for additional revi-
consult with survey methodologist Dr. Cooper to identify sions and redesign of the graphics and text, which the
ways of structuring future surveys that would avoid data staff secretary forwarded to the Publishing Department.
collection challenges identified with this project. The committee requested that if further clarification is
The committee discussed the Fellowship responses to needed by the Publishing Department that they com-
the survey and the impact of communications to general municate this with the trustees’ PI Committee so that an
service structure trusted servants on engagement. interim meeting could be scheduled.
The committee agreed to forward to the 2024 The committee agreed to forward to the 2024
Conference Committee on Public Information the report Conference Committee on Public Information the prog-
on Membership Survey Pilot using Convenience Samples. ress report on “A Message to Teenagers.”
Discuss a Review Grid of Public Information pamphlets/ Create a new form of communication to address anonymity
materials — The committee discussed the following pam- on social media — The committee discussed the progress
phlets/materials presented for review. report on the request “to create a new form of communi-
“A.A. At a Glance” — At the July 2023 meeting, the com- cation” to address anonymity on social media. The chair
mittee discussed whether, “A.A. at a Glance” is outdated. requested the staff secretary send a communication to
In addition, the committee requested the staff secretary the trustees’ PI Committee members requesting their
compare other A.A. publications to ensure that messag- input on how to update the current draft survey.
ing in “A.A. at a Glance” is not duplicated in other A.A. At the October meeting, the committee reviewed a
content. The committee requested the staff secretary draft survey for collecting shared experience from the
move forward with the update and provide a progress Fellowship on anonymity and social media and agreed to
report to the October 2023 meeting. email suggested revisions to the staff secretary.
At the October 2023 meeting, the committee dis- At the January meeting the committee reviewed the
cussed the progress report on “A.A. at a Glance.” The progress report on the draft questionnaire addressing
staff secretary shared that a fresh design and updated anonymity on social media and made some editorial
language had been incorporated into a draft by the suggestions, which the staff secretary used to update the
Publishing Department. The committee suggested addi- questionnaire before it was made available to PI trusted

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servants and Conference members. gested to the committee that the Public Information
The committee agreed to forward to the 2024 Workbook needs to be reviewed and updated. Currently,
Conference Committee on Public Information a prog- work to update the PI Workbook is going; and a progress
ress report on “Efforts to Create a New Form of report will be provided at the July 2024 meeting.
Communication about Anonymity and Social Media.” Deb Koltai, Chair
Young People’s Video Project — At the July meeting the
committee approved the Young People’s Video Project Staff Report: The goal of the Public Information assign-
proposal to develop anonymity-protected content during ment at GSO is to assist the Fellowship in assuring that
the 2023 ICYPAA using the current untapped 2023 the A.A. message of recovery reaches the still-suffering
approved budget not to exceed $10,000. The committee alcoholic by keeping the public informed about the A.A.
also agreed that the staff secretary should move forward program of recovery from alcoholism.
with the following 2023 committee considerations. This assignment is also charged with assisting the A.A.
members who carry our message to the suffering alco-
• Expand the submission timeframe to include fifteen holic through the general public. These A.A. members
second minimum up to three-minute maximum for share information about A.A. at schools, health fairs,
videos submitted by members. community events, libraries, and through all forms of
• Clarify that we are seeking user generated content media, including public websites. Below are some of the
video submissions from young members creatively ways that this task was carried out in 2023:
carrying a message to other young people. Focus is • Communicate with 864 PI committee chairpersons at
requested to be on the experience of getting sober the area, district, and intergroup/central office level,
young and to reflect the diversity of the Fellowship. providing them with aa.org resources, Workbooks,
The committee is seeking shared experiences that will Guidelines, and current shared information on Public
relate to the “young” alcoholic who has yet to come Information activity. Many of these materials can be
to A.A. provided digitally and/or in print version.
• Review the two submissions to determine if we can • Provide literature to supplement the efforts of local
make additional edits to tighten the message in the Public Information committees, at local health and
framework of what it was like, what happened and community fairs, sharing information about Alcoholics
what it is like now, focusing on the key messages that Anonymous.
have an impact and identification.
• Respond to all media inquiries that come to the office
• Provide communication to all delegates with the goal providing them with accurate information about
of producing excitement and engagement for the
Young People’s Video project for the members in their
local areas.
At the October meeting the committee reviewed
the progress report on the GSO Young People’s Video
Project. The project continues to have an open submis-
sions process. The staff secretary reported on videos that
were created at the 2023 ICYPAA convention, noting
that two staff members from GSO attended the event to
facilitate filming. The staff secretary also reported that
two bids had been received for post-production work.
The committee asked that the staff secretary work with
the appropriate GSO departments to move forward with
developing examples to help inform the next phase of
the project.
At an interim meeting in March 2024, the committee
reviewed two sample videos, which had been produced
from footage that was created at the 2023 ICYPAA con-
vention.
The committee agreed to forward to the 2024
Conference Committee on Public Information the two
sample Young People videos.
Public Information Kit and Workbook — The committee
reviewed the content of the PI Kit and Workbook. The
staff secretary reported to the committee that the pam-
phlet, “A Member’s-Eye View of Alcoholics Anonymous”
had been removed from the kit as it appears outdated
and less effective for providing information about A.A.
to the professional community. The staff secretary sug-

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Alcoholics Anonymous. Coordinate media coverage experience when available. Currently, ten A.A. members
of A.A.’s International Conventions, held every five comprise the “GSO Staff,” with each person responsible
years and work closely with the Publishing and for a functional assignment in addition to responding to
Communication Services departments regarding the requests from a specific region in Canada, the United
development and distribution of press releases, social States, or from other countries. The staff coordinator is
media postings and other key communications from also responsible for correspondence with members from
the General Service Office. the Southwest region.
• Read and review media stories that mention Alcoholics The staff coordinator helps to assure that letters are
Anonymous and share relevant information as need- answered when staff members are involved in large
ed. Receive information from members regarding projects or away from the office to attend A.A. events,
anonymity breaks at the level of press, radio, films, or at times of illness or vacation. The staff coordinator
television, and the Internet, including many forms of is typically a member of Staff who has previously served
social media. on multiple assignments and can therefore share that
experience with newer staff. GSO staff benefit from the
• Pass along instances of anonymity breaks in the
experience of A.A. groups gathered over many years.
media to the delegate in the area in which the break
These resources are passed on to members who seek
occurred and provide them with an opportunity to
guidance for their group, central office, district or area
contact the member and share experience regarding
assembly.
our Eleventh Tradition.
Questions and requests for sharing from the Fellowship
• Send out the Annual Anonymity Letter to the Media. are often brought to weekly staff meetings, which the
The February 2024 letter was emailed to over 30,000 staff coordinator is responsible for facilitating, so that
media outlets in the U.S. and Canada. The email responses reflect either research from A.A. literature or
included a link to view a brief video on anonymity on service material or the collective experience of GSO staff
aa.org. The letter was distributed to reporters, editors, and archives. Our weekly staff meetings provide a forum
and publishers at a variety of outlets in print, broad- for sharing ideas on how to better serve A.A. groups
cast and online media. and members and how to provide the most complete
• Work closely with the Publishing department regarding answers to Fellowship inquiries and often include the
development and updating of Conference-approved general manager and director of staff services.
literature and assignment-related service material. GSO staff members serve as secretaries to trustee and
• Coordinating an evaluation of the triennial A.A. Conference committees and are also voting members of
Membership Survey process, questionnaire and how the General Service Conference. The staff coordinator
best to report out the results. At this time the latest is secretary to the Conference Committee on Policy/
survey completed was in 2022. Admissions.
• Review reports from Communication Services and In the past year, GSO welcomed 1,400 individual
AA Grapevine about changes to the aa.org and visitors including many English- and Spanish-speaking
aagrapevine.org websites, a key aspect of our Public groups ranging in size from 10 to 40. Each visitor had an
Information efforts. opportunity to see and hear “how GSO works” and visit
with AA Grapevine/La Viña employees to learn of their
• Coordinate production of new television and radio “carry the message” efforts as well. Visiting members
Public Service Announcements (PSAs) as requested and guests often attended the open A.A. meeting held
by the Conference, and work with the Communication at GSO at 11:00 a.m. on Fridays. Traditionally, this has
Services department regarding available formats and also been an opportunity for the GSO staff to welcome
delivery options. A.A. members from all over the world or from around
• Work closely with the Communication Services depart- the corner.
ment on other projects requested by the Conference, As assistant secretary to the General Service Board,
along with special media and digital projects under the the staff coordinator is responsible for scheduling board
purview of GSO, such as the AAWS YouTube Channel, and committee meetings, distributing advance materi-
Google Ads, a GSO podcast and new PI Service Cards. al, preparing minutes of board meetings and gathering
• Development and implementation of an annual update information on board activities that appears in the
to the Comprehensive Media Plan. Quarterly Report. The staff coordinator also serves as sec-
• Responding to comments and questions on three retary to the ad hoc committee on Orientation and helps
claimed online business profiles for A.A. World coordinate the annual trustees’ orientation.
Services, Inc. The staff coordinator has the privilege of serving as a
director on A.A. World Services, Inc., in accordance with
Misha Q.
Concept IV, and serves as liaison between staff members
and other GSO departments. None of these activities
STAFF COORDINATOR would be possible without the dedication and skill of a
Staff Report: The General Service Office provides ser- very capable staff coordinator assistant.
vices to A.A. groups and members, and shares A.A. Racy J.

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■ Literature Distributed — 2023

The Co-Founders of Alcoholics Anonymous 6,733
ENGLISH
Do You Think You’re Different? 47,602
Books
Frequently Asked Questions 122,704
Alcoholics Anonymous 184,839
Frequently Asked Questions (large print) 4,646
Alcoholics Anonymous (jacketless) 248,476
G.S.R. 29,991
Alchololics Anonymous (soft cover) 284,806
Grapevine — Our Meeting in Print 9,157
Alcoholics Anonymous (large print) 54,350
How A.A. Members Cooperate 8,628
Alcoholics Anonymous (pocket abridged) 52,898
How It Works 32,726
Alcoholics Anonymous (large print/abridged) 35,080
Daily Reflections 95,445 If You Are a Professional 19,472
Daily Reflections (large print) 14,741 Inside A.A. 23,946
Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions (reg. ed.) 121,274 A.A. for the Black and African American Alcoholic 15,850
Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions (gift ed.) 3,292 Is A.A. for You? 197,338
Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions (soft cover) 154,331 Is A.A. for Me? 59,365
Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions (large print) 34,042 Is There an Alcoholic in the Workplace? 13,652
Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions (pocket ed.) 17,263 Is There an Alcoholic in Your Life? 26,578
A.A. Comes of Age 7,002 It Happened to Alice 10,218
As Bill Sees It 20,886 It Sure Beats Sitting in a Cell 25,998
As Bill Sees It (soft cover) 22,900 The Jack Alexander Article 7,619
As Bill Sees It (large print) 6,791 Let’s Be Friendly With Our Friends 2,171
Dr. Bob and the Good Oldtimers 5,969 A Member’s-Eye View of A.A. 25,431
“Pass It On” 5,020 Memo to an Inmate Who May Be an Alcoholic 16,445
Our Great Responsibility 5,731 A Message to Correctional Facilities Administrators 7,577
Experience, Strength & Hope 8,056 A Newcomer Asks 201,660
A Visual History of Alcoholics Anonymous: Problems Other Than Alcohol 55,333
An Archival Journey 2,124 Questions and Answers on Sponsorship 161,025
Total 1,385,316 Speaking at Non-A.A. Meetings 5,809
Booklets The Twelve Concepts for World Service Illustrated 20,466
The A.A. Service Manual/ The Twelve Steps Illustrated 31,286
Twelve Concepts for World Service 20,814 Twelve Tradition Flyer 3,266
Living Sober 94,136 The Twelve Traditions Illustrated 41,914
Living Sober (large print) 14,250 This Is A.A. 162,909
Came to Believe 23,142 This Is A.A. (large print) 4,530
Came to Believe (large print) 3,323 A.A. for the Older Alcoholic (Large Print) 23,568
A.A. in Prisons: Inmate to Inmate 7,764 Too Young? 13,471
Total 164,044 Understanding Anonymity 30,011
Pamphlets What Happened to Joe 10,082
A.A. and the Armed Services 8,388 The “God” Word — Agnostic and Atheist Members in A.A.31,076
LGBTQ Alcoholics in A.A. 24,570 A.A. for Alcoholics with Mental Health Issues
A.A. as a Resource for the Health Care Professional 18,791 and their sponsors 25,151
A.A. for the Native North American 9,353 Young People in A.A. 46,744
A.A. for the Woman 42,079 Access to A.A. —Members share on overcoming barriers 10,010
The A.A. Group 81,763 Many Paths to Spirituality 38,517
A.A. in Your Community 22,039 Hispanic Women in A.A. 4,227
A.A. in Correctional Facilities 10,348 Experience Has Taught Us:
Our Twelve Traditions Illustrated 6,161
A.A. in Treatment Facilities 11,642
Total 2,052,828
The A.A. Membership Survey 5,552
The A.A. Member —Medications and Other Drugs 41,434 Miscellaneous
A.A. Tradition —How It Developed 15,674 Wallet cards-two-fold 103,627
A.A.’s Legacy of Service 5,146 Wallet cards-I Am Responsible 29,411
A Brief Guide to Alcoholics Anonymous 63,765 Wallet cards-Anonymity 17,456
Circles of Love and Service 21,927 Anonymity Display Card 1,186
Bridging the Gap 19,108 Parchment-scrolls 1,079
Faith Leaders Ask About A.A. 10,186 Placards 621

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C.P.C. Workbook 1,109 (Alcoholics Anonymous abridged pocket size) 6,012

Archives Workbook 594 Alcohólicos Anónimos
Corrections Workbook 1,400 (Alcoholics Anonymous large print) 5,508
P.I. Workbook 963 Alcohólicos Anónimos
Treatment Facilities Workbook 1,126 (Alcoholics Anonymous large print/abridged) 3,354
Treatment Facility Kit 308 Como Lo Ve Bill (As Bill Sees It) 4,046
Accessibilities Workbook 290 A.A. Llega a su Mayoría de Edad (A.A. Comes of Age) 2,652
Twelve and Twelve on Computer Disk 3 El Dr. Bob y los Buenos Veteranos
(Dr. Bob and the Good Oldtimers) 2,871
A.A. Guidelines 47,721
Transmitelo (Pass it On) 2,926
Group Handbook 2,486
Wire Racks 1,246 Reflexiones Diarias (Daily Reflections) 9,161
Cassettes (tape cassettes) 59 Viviendo Sobrio (Living Sober) 12,967
Three Legacies by Bill CD 50 El Manual de Servicios de A.A./Doce Conceptos
para el Servicio Mundial
Voices of our Co-Founders CD 90
(A.A. Service Manual/Twelve Concepts) 3,595
Bill Discusses the Twelve Traditions 67
Doce Pasos y Doce Tradiciones
A Brief Guide to A.A. CD 22 (Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions) 17,250
A.A. for the Alcoholic with Special Needs CD 34 Llegamos a Creer (Came to Believe) 6,140
Markings on the Journey 33 A.A. en Prisiones de Preso a Preso (Inmate to Inmate) 5,281
A.A. in Correctional Facilities DVD 20 Doce Pasos y Doce Tradiciones (pocket ed.) 3,248
Bill’s Own Story DVD 129 Doce Pasos y Doce Tradiciones (large print) 8,203
Bill Discusses the Twelve Traditions DVD 56 De las tinieblas hacia la luz 3,756
Carrying the Message Behind These Walls 293 Nuestra Gran Responsabilidad (Our Great Responsibility) 3,025
Your A.A. GSO, the Grapevine, Una historia visual de Alcohólicos Anónimos:
and the General Service Structure 312 un viaje archivistico 649
Hope: A.A. DVD 68 Total 121,599
Young People’s Videos 346
Alcoholics Anonymous ASL DVD 124 Folletos
Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions ASL DVD 227 A.A. en Su Comunidad (A.A. in Your Community) 2,598
A.A. Cooperation with the Professional Community DVD 287 44 Preguntas (44 Questions) 8,795
Young People’s Animation Videos (Set of 4) DVD 3 Esto es A.A. (This is A.A.) 14,932
ASL A.A. for the Alcoholic with Special Needs 56 Es A.A. para Usted? (Is A.A. for You?) 34,394
A New Freedom DVD 305 Hay un Alcohólico en su Vida?
(Is There an Alcoholic in Your Life?) 3,876
Alcoholics Anonymous (cassette album) 27
Carta a un Preso que Puede Ser Un Alcohólico
Alcoholics Anonymous (4th Ed cassette album) 24
(Memo to an Inmate) 1,495
Alcoholics Anonymous (4th Ed cd album) unabridged 494
El Punto de Vista de un Miembro de A.A.
Alcoholics Anonymous (4th Ed cd album) abridged 277 (A Member’s-Eye View) 816
A.A. Comes of Age (cd album) 56 Alcohólicos Anónimos por Jack Alexander
Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions (cassette album) 7 (Jack Alexander Article) 474
Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions (cd album) 258 Seamos amistosos con nuestros amigos
TV Public Service Announcement 0 (Let’s be Friendly with our Friends) 570
Radio Public Service Announcements 5 Un Principiante Pregunta (A Newcomer Asks) 9,773
Twelve Steps Shade displays 1,232 Como Trabaja el Programa (How It Works) 2,378
Twelve Traditions Shade displays 1,207 Lo que le Sucedió a José (What Happened to Joe) 2,194
Fact File 0 Comprendiendo el Anonimato
Table Top Display 12 & 12 304 (Understanding Anonymity) 2,912
Pioneers of AA (cassette album) 3 El Grupo de A.A. (The A.A. Group) 9,277
Pioneers of AA (cd album) 14 Preguntas y Respuestas sobre el Apadrinamiento
Living Sober (cd album) 54 (Questions and Answers on Sponsorship) 7,622
Total 217,169 El Miembro de A.A. —Los Medicamentos y Otras Drogas
Grand Total 3,819,357 (The A.A. Member —Medications and Other Drugs) 2,612
Las Doce Tradiciones Ilustradas
SPANISH (The Twelve Traditions Illustrated) 1,623
Libros A.A. en Centros de Tratamiento (A.A. in Treatment Centers) 602
Alcohólicos Anónimos (Alcoholics Anonymous soft cover) 9,290 Los Jóvenes en A.A. (Young People in A.A.) 5,851
Alcohólicos Anónimos La Tradición de A.A. —¿Cómo se Desarrolló?
(Alcoholics Anonymous hardcover) 11,665 (A.A. Tradition —How It Developed) 1,527
Alcohólicos Anónimos Una Breve Guía a A.A. (A Brief Guide to A.A.) 7,047

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A.A. en las Instituciones Correccionales Miscellaneous

(A.A. in Correctional Facilities) 782 Guias (Guidelines) 4,099
Problemas Diferentes del Alcohol Parchments, Spanish 491
(Problems Other Than Alcohol) 4,112
Tarjetas Tamaño Billetera (wallet cards) 2,658
Es Mejor que Estar Sentado en una Celda
Alcohólicos Anónimos (cassette album)
(It Sure Beats Sitting In a Cell) 808
(Big Book on cassette) 15
¿Cómo Cooperan los Miembros de A.A.?
Alcohólicos Anónimos (cd album) Texto integro
(How A.A. Members Cooperate) 1,061
(Big Book on cd) 93
Dentro de A.A. (Inside A.A.) 1,714
Alcohólicos Anónimos (cd album) Abreviada
A.A. como Recurso para los Profesionales de la Salud (Big Book on cd) 203
(A.A. as a Resource for the Health Care Professional) 1,601
Doce Pasos y Doce Tradiciones (cd album) 160
Los líderes religiosas preguntan acerca de A.A.
Total 7,719
(Faith Leaders Ask About A.A.) 1,539
Grand Total 314,275
R.S.G. (G.S.R.) 2,571
¿Se Cree Usted Diferente? (Do You Think You’re Different?) 3,482 FRENCH
Le Sucedió a Alicia (It Happened to Alice) 1,889 Livres (Books)
Hablando en Reuniones no-A.A. Les Alcooliques Anonymes
(Speaking at non A.A. Meetings) 1,026 (Alcoholics Anonymous —format relie) 2,719
Las mujeres en A.A. (Women in A.A.) 5,687 Les Alcooliques Anonymes
Encuesta Sobre los Miembros de A.A. (Alcoholics Anonymous —format relie, sans veste) 2,149
(A.A. Membership Survey) 552 Les Alcooliques Anonymes
¿Hay un alcohólico en el lugar de trabajo? (Alcoholics Anonymous —format souple) 1,280
(Is there an alcoholic in the workplace?) 1,867 Les Alcooliques Anonymes
Es A.A. Para Mi? (Is A.A. for Me?) 9,953 (Alcoholics Anonymous —format poche) 465
A.A. para el alcohólico de edad avanzada Les Alcooliques Anonymes
(A.A. for the older alcoholic) 2,432 (Alcoholics Anonymous —large print) 477
Los Doce Pasos Ilustrados (The Twelve Steps Illustrated) 1,144 Les Alcooliques Anonymes
(Alcoholics Anonymous —large print/abridged) 320
Círculos de Amor y Servicio (Circles of Love & Service) 1,926
Les Douze Etapes et les Douze Traditions
Uniendo las Orillas (Bridging the Gap) 895
(Twelve & Twelve —format relie) 1,584
Los Doce Conceptos Ilustrados (Twelve Concepts Illustrated) 1,985
Les Douze Etapes et les Douze Traditions
Los alcohólicos LGBTQ en A.A. (LGBTQ Alcoholics in A.A.) 1,141 (Twelve & Twelve —format souple) 746
El Legado de Servicio de A.A. (A.A. Legacy of Service) 843 Les Douze Etapes et les Douze Traditions
Si Usted es un Profesional (If you are a Professional…) 612 (Twelve & Twelve —large print) 350
El Grapevine y La Viña de A.A. Les Douze Etapes et les Douze Traditions
(Grapevine and La Viña…Our Meetings in Print) 615 (Twelve & Twelve —format poche) 125
¿Demasiado Joven? (Too Young?) 1,232 Le Mouvement des A.A. devient Adulte
Acceso a A.A. los miembros hablan sobre superar (A.A. Comes of Age) 170
las barreras (Access to A.A. —Members share Reflexions de Bill (As Bill Sees It) 1,738
on overcoming barriers) 886 Reflexions Quotidiennes
Muchas sendas hacia espiritualidad (Daily Reflections) 2,843
(Many Paths to Spirituality) 1,332 Dr Bob et les pionniers
A.A. y las Fuerzas Armadas (A.A. and the Armed Services) 290 (Dr. Bob and the Good Oldtimers) 276
La palabra “Dios” — Los miembros de A.A. agnósticos (Expérience, Force & Espoir)
y ateos (The God Word — Agnostic and Atheist Experience, Strength and Hope 179
Members in A.A.) 1,910 Transmets-Le (Pass It On) 340
A.A. para los alcohólicos con problemas de Les A.A. en Prison (A.A. in Prison) 259
salud mental — y sus padrinos (A.A. for Alcoholics
with Mental Health Issues — and their sponsors) 1,061 Notre grande responsabilité
(Our Great Responsibility) 190
A.A. para el alcohólico negro y afroamericano
(A.A. for the Black and African American Alcoholic) 324 Une histoire visuelle des Alcooliques anonymes:
voyage au coeur des archives
Esto es A.A. (This is A.A. large print) 1,035 (A visual history of Alcoholics Anonymous:
Preguntas frecuentes acerca de A.A. an archival journey) 326
(Frequently Asked Questions about A.A. — Large Print) 534 Total 16,536
A.A. para el Native Norteamericano
(A.A. for the Native North American) 462 Plaquettes (Booklets)
Mujeres hispanas en A.A. (Hispanic Women in A.A.) 3,683 Nous en sommes venus a croire
La experiencia nos ha enseñado: (Came to Believe) 658
una introducción a nuestras Doce Tradiciones Vivre ... sans alcool! (Living Sober) 3,152
(Experience Has Taught Us) 603 Le Manuel du Service et les Douze Concepts 1,000
Total 184,957 Total 4,810

110
 CONTENTS

Brochures (Pamphlets) L’Héritage des Services des A.A. (A.A.’s Legacy of Service) 172
Voici les A.A. (This is A.A.) 7,047 Cercles d’amour et de service (Circles of Love & Service) 597
Les A.A.: 44 Questions (44 Questions) 2,966 Vous croyez-vous different?
Les A.A.: sont-ils pour vous? (Is A.A. for You?) 6,575 (Do You Think You’re Different?) 767
Les femmes des A.A. (Women in A.A.) 1,438 Sondage sur les membres des A.A.
(The A.A. Membership Survey) 246
Collaboration des membres des A.A.
(How A.A. Members Cooperate) 296 Les jeunes chez les A.A. (Young People in A.A.) 693
Y a-t-il un Alcoolique dans Votre Milieu de travail? Votre BSG (Your GSO) 459
(Is there an alcoholic in the workplace?) 513 AA pour l’alcoolique plus âgé
Le membre des A.A. face aux medicaments (AA for the older alcoholic) 503
et a la drogue (The A.A. Member Un nouveau veut savoir (A Newcomer Asks) 4,491
—Medications & Other Drugs) 915 Les A.A. sont-ils pour moi? (Is A.A. for Me?) 1,205
Les A.A. —Article du Saturday Evening Post Favoriser de rapprochement (Bridging the Gap) 269
(The Jack Alexander Article) 118 Les Douze Etapes Illustrees (Twelve Steps Illustrated) 2,235
Collaborons avec nos amis Les A.A. et les Autochtones d’Amerique du Nord
(Let’s Be Friendly With Our Friends) 49 (A.A. and the Native North American) 312
Questions et reponses sur le parrainage L’accès aux AA —Des Members Racontent
(Questions and Answers on Sponsorship) 1,355 Comment ils ont Surmonté des obstacles
Les A.A.: Une ressource pour les medecins (Access to A.A. —Members share
(A.A. as a Resource for the Health Care Professional) 1,317 on overcoming barriers) 468
Les A.A. dans les centres de traitement Différentes avenues la spiritualité
(A.A. in Treatment Facilities) 169 (Many Paths to Spirituality) 3,371
La Tradition des A.A. et son developpement Les AA et les forces armées (A.A. and the Armed Services) 120
(A.A. Tradition/How It Developed) 188 Le mot « Dieu » — Membres agnostiques et
Vous vous occupez prof. d’alcoolisme? athées chez les AA (The “God” Word — Agnostic
(If You Are a Professional) 431 and Atheist Members in A.A.) 3,771
L’Histoire de Nicole (It Happened to Alice) 164 Les alcooliques LGBTQ des AA (LGBTQ Alcoholics in A.A.) 566
Jean face a son probleme d’alcool Les AA pour les alcooliques atteints de maladie mentale
(What Happened to Joe?) 104 (A.A. for Alcoholics with Mental Health Issues
Les A.A. dans votre milieu (A.A. in Your Community) 191 — and their sponsors) 857
Problemes autres que l’alcoolisme Voici les AA (This is A.A. Large Print) 0
(Problems Other Than Alcohol) 913 Foire aux questions sur les AA
Point de vue d’un membre sur les A.A. (Frequently Asked Questions about A.A. large print) 22
(A Member’s-Eye View of A.A.) 543 Lignes de conduite A.A. (Guidelines) 1,092
Les Douze Traditions illustrees Les femmes hispaniques chez les AA 120
(The Twelve Traditions Illustrated) 1,031 L’expérience nous a appris:
Les A.A. dans les etablissements correctionnels une introduction à nos Douze Traditions 1,017
(A.A. in Correctional Facilities) 10 Total 58,795
Ca vaut mieux que de languir en prison Divers (Miscellaneous)
(It Sure Beats Sitting in a Cell) 771 12 & 12 (cassette album) 1
Petit guide pratique sur les A.A. 12 & 12 (cd album) 136
(A Brief Guide to A.A.) 1,962
Les Alcooliques Anonymes/Intégrale (cd album) 81
Les leaders religieux se renseignent sur les A.A.
Les Alcooliques Anonymes/Abrégée(cd album) 118
(Faith Leaders Ask About A.A.) 153
Carte 12 Etapes/12 Traditions
Les deux fondateurs d’A.A. (The Co-founders of A.A.) 267
(Wallet card 12 Steps & 12 Traditions) 973
Message a l’intention d’un detenu
Carte anonymat (Francais/anglais) (Anonymity wallet card) 112
(Memo to an Inmate) 501
Carte Je Suis Responsible (I am responsible wallet card) 247
Message aux Dir. d’Etabl. Correctionnels
(Message to Correctional Facilities Administrators) 104 La Transmission Du Message (DVD) 5
Le groupe des A.A. (The A.A. Group) 1,377 La Transmission Du Message (DVD) 1
Les Douze Concepts illustres Notre Methode (How It Works) 12,908
(Twelve Concepts Illustrated) 569 Manuel de Groupe 3
Le sens de l’anonymat (Understanding Anonymity) 567 Pochette de l’Information Publique 16
Y-a-t-il un alcoolique dans votre vie? Pochette des Centres de Detention 2
(Is There an Alcoholic in Your Life?) 552 Pochette de la CMP 0
Le R.S.G. (The G.S.R.) 734 Prière de la Sérénité (12x16) (Parchment Serenity Prayer) 32
Causeries a l’exterieur des A.A. Pochette des Centres de Traitement 4
(Speaking at Non-A.A. Meetings) 103 Dossier d’Information sur les A.A. (Fact File) 0
Trop jeune? (Too Young?) 174 Total 14,639
La Structure de l’Association des A.A. (Inside A.A.) 709 Grand Total 94,780

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■ AA Grapevine Literature Distributed — 2023

BB01 First Edition Facsimile 308 MS01 AA Preamble 370
BB06 The Best of Bill 2,343 MS03 Man on the Bed Oil Painting Reproduction 311
BB07 The Best of Bill Large Print, Softcover 733 MS04 The Slogans set of 5 442
BI01 Back Issues of Grapevine Mag Pack of 30 499 MS05 Serenity Prayer 482
BNFB0B For Beginners (set) Book Set 423 MS06 Victor E. Poster 47
BNHB9B The Heartbeat of AA (set) Book Set 179 MS08 Annual Wall Calendar 1,730
BNLS76 The Lighter Side (set) Book Set 155 MS08LV Annual Wall Calendar—Spanish 738
CD03 Classic Grapevine V.2 5 MS09 Annual Pocket Planner 1,137
CD04 Classic Grapevine V.3 6 MS09LV Annual Pocket Planner—Spanish 397
CD05 Not for Newcomers Only 18 MS15 Co-Founders’ Memorial Issues 476
CD07 Historias de La Viña CD 16 MS20 Traditions Checklist pack of 50 250
CD09 What It Was Like 18 MS23 75 Year Anniversary Toolkit 1
CD11 Twelve Traditions 8 SBB06 Lo Mejor de Bill 2,327
CD12 It Works If We Work It 11 SBI01 Ejemplares Anteriores paquete de 20 145
CD13 The Best of Bill 36 SCD09 Historias de La Viña III CD 24
CD18 Emotional Sobriety CD V.2 27 SCD10 Lo Mejor de Bill CD 28
CD21 The Home Group CD V.1 5 SCD12 Despertares Espirituales V.1 CD 10
CD22 The Home Group CD V.2 6 SCD13 Despertares Espirituales V.2 CD 19
CD23 The Language of the Heart CD 37 SCD14 Las Doce Tradiciones V.1 CD 1
CONT. Carry the Message 38 SCD15 Las Doce Tradiciones V.2 CD 1
FBB06 Les Meilleurs Articles de Bill 819 SCD16 El Grupo Base V.1 CD 3
FCD23 Le Langage du Coeur CD 45 SCD23 El Lenguaje del Corazón CD 1
FGV07 Le Groupe d’Attache 148 SGV01 Lo Mejor de La Viña 1,064
FGV11 Le Langage du Coeur 248 SGV03 Un Día a la Vez 1,155
FGV17 La Sobriété Émotive 673 SGV04 Frente a Frente 1,473
FGV29 Heureux, Joyeux et Libres 268 SGV15 El Grupo Base 1,400
FGV30 En Tête à Tête 134 SGV17 Sobriedad Emotional 2,773
FGV32 Citation du jour Livre 768 SGV29 Felices, Alegres y Libres 1,181
FMS03 L’homme sur le lit 18 SGV32 Libro de Cita Diaria 1,060
FMS04 Les Slogans Jeu de 5 48 SGV37 Mujeres en AA 1,558
FMS06 Plaquette de Victor E. 1 SGV39 Bajo el Mismo Techo 1,303
FMS15 Les Cofondateurs des AA Le Dr. Bob et Bill W. 51 SGV44 Oración y Meditación 1,958
GV06 The Language of the Heart Hard Cover 977 SMS03 El Hombre en la Cama hermosa reproducción 202
GV08 El Lenguaje del Corazón Cubierta blanda 2,800 SP01 Preámbulo de AA 256
GV11 The Language of the Heart Soft Cover 2,100 SP04 Los Lemas 5 lemas 231
GV13 Thank You For Sharing Book 328 SP05 La Oración de la Serenidad 226
GV14 Spiritual Awakenings Volume 1 1,356 SP20 Un Chequeo de las Tradiciones 41
GV15 Home Group (Revised) Revised Edition, Softcover 123 SP20BU Un Chequeo de las Tradiciones paquete de 50 7
GV16 I Am Responsible: SP20BULK Un Chequeo de las Tradiciones paquete de 50 40
Hand of AA Soft Cover-Discontinued 8/29/23 74 SUBS596 1
GV17 Emotional Sobriety: The Next Frontier 3,667 Total Books 74,079
GV18 The Language of the Heart Large Print 721 E-books: (showing only annual sales of 75 or more)
GV19 In Our Own Words 366 Emotional Sobriety 1276
GV20 Beginners’ Book 1,849 The Language of the Heart 901
GV21 Voices of Long-Term Sobriety 550 Emotional Sobriety 736
GV22 A Rabbit Walks into a Bar 1,102 The Language of the Heart 713
GV23 Spiritual Awakenings II Volume 2 778 Emotional Sobriety II 450
GV25 Step by Step 985 The Best of Bill 348
GV26 Emotional Sobriety II Volume 2 2,147 Voices of Women in AA 320
GV27 Young & Sober 702 Prayer & Meditation 252
GV28 Into Action 809 Spiritual Awakenings 205
GV29 Happy, Joyous & Free 870 The Best of Bill 191
GV30 One on One 754 The Story of AA 166
GV31 No Matter What 1,196 One Big Tent 145
GV33 Sober & Out 519 Spiritual Awakenings 128
GV34 Forming True Partnerships 888 Beginners’ Book 113
GV35 Our Twelve Traditions 754 The Best of Grapevine, Vols. 1,2,3 115
GV36 Making Amends 1,285 Attitude Adjustment 98
GV37 Voices of Women in AA 1,895 Pathways to Spirituality 83
GV38 AA in the Military 378 Step by Step 82
GV39 One Big Tent 882 No Matter What 76
GV40 Take Me to Your Sponsor 1,051 The Grapevine Daily Quote Book 77
GV41 Best of Grapevine Volumes 1-3 273 Total E-Books 7,502
GV42 Daily Quote Book 1,376 CDs, Cassettes and MP3s — English 476
GV43 Free on the Inside 1,678 CDs, Cassettes and MP3s — Spanish, French 247
________
GV44 Prayer & Meditation 2,328 Total: 723
GV45 Fun in Sobriety 1,422 ________
GV46 The Home Group Heartbeat of AA 2,135 Grand Total 82,304

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■ Grapevine Subscriptions* — Geographical Breakdown

INCREASE/ INCREASE/
MARCH 2024 MARCH 2023 DECREASE MARCH 2024 MARCH 2023 DECREASE

UNITED STATES* New York 2,783 2,634 149

Armed Forces America - - - Ohio 1,258 1,216 42
Armed Forces Europe, Oklahoma 413 340 73
Middle East and Canada 11 - 11 Oregon 1,128 1,052 76
Alaska 248 265 (17) Pennsylvania 3,262 2,932 330
Alabama 406 376 30 Puerto Rico 16 - 16
Armed Forces Pacific 7 - 7 Palau 2 - 2
Arkansas 305 248 57 Rhode Island 188 181 7
American Samoa - - - South Carolina 570 561 9
Arizona 1,431 1,330 101 South Dakota 222 194 28
California 5,866 5,229 637 Tennessee 690 610 80
Colorado 1,196 1,105 91 Texas 2,315 2,236 79
Connecticut 693 652 41 Utah 414 354 60
District of Columbia 69 79 (10) Virginia 1,303 1,204 99
Delaware 230 201 29 Virgin Island 5 - 5
Florida 3,349 2,936 413 Vermont 204 169 35
Washington 1554 1532 22
Federated States
of Micronesia - - - Wisconsin 1225 1309 (84)
West Virgina 196 219 (23)
Georgia 1,247 1,210 37
Wyoming 135
________
142
________ ________
(7)
Guam 5 - 5
Subtotal US 50,714
________
46,449
________
4,265
________
Hawaii 327 313 14
Iowa 673 621 52
Idaho 445 442 3 CANADA*

Illinois 1,885 1,734 151 Alberta 383 370 13

Indiana 836 785 51 British Columbia 613 633 (20)

Kansas 551 498 53 Manitoba 169 136 33

Kentucky 469 433 36 New Brunswick 123 104 19

Louisiana 363 325 38 Newfoundland and Labrador 42 44 (2)

Massachusetts 1,089 1,035 54 Nova Scotia 140 113 27

Maryland 883 814 69 Northwest Territories 11 12 (1)

Maine 356 306 50 Nunavut 6 - 6

Marshall Islands - - - Ontario 1,608 1,440 168

Prince Edward Island 70 57 13
Michigan 1,695 1,035 660
Quebec 70 133 (63)
Minnesota 1,515 1,367 148
Saskatchewan 185 178 7
Missouri 1,123 1,003 120
Yukon 39
________
25
________
14
________
Northern Marina Islands - - -
Subtotal CANADA 3,459 3,245 214
Mississippi 153 181 (28) ________ ________ ________
Montana 438 435 3
North Carolina 1,453 1,282 171 INTERNATIONAL* 788
________
419
________
369
________
North Dakota 243 201 42 Grand Total 54,173
________
49,694
________
4,479
________
________ ________ ________
Nebraska 492 500 (8)
New Hampshire 437 393 44 LA VIÑA SUBSCRIPTIONS*
New Jersey 1,376 1,330 46 Mar./Apr. ’24 Mar./Apr. ’23 Diff.

New Mexico 373 360 13 Total 3,334 3,281 53

Nevada 593 540 53 (*does not include monthly orders)

113
 CONTENTS

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114
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■ Report of the Independent Auditor

The Board of Trustees an audit conducted in accordance with GAAS will always
The General Service Board of detect a material misstatement when it exists. The risk of
Alcoholics Anonymous, Inc. and Affiliates not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud
is higher than for one resulting from error, as fraud may
Opinion
involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepre-
We have audited the consolidated financial statements of The
sentations, or the override of internal control. Misstatements
General Service Board of Alcoholics Anonymous, Inc. and
are considered material if there is a substantial likelihood
Affiliates (collectively the Organization), which comprise the
that, individually or in the aggregate, they would influence
consolidated statement of financial position as of December
the judgment made by a reasonable user based on the con-
31, 2023, and the related consolidated statement of activities, solidated financial statements.
functional expenses and cash flows for the year then ended,
and the related notes to the consolidated financial statements. In performing an audit in accordance with GAAS, we:
In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated financial • Exercise professional judgment and maintain professional
statements present fairly, in all material respects, the finan- skepticism throughout the audit.
cial position of the Organization as of December 31, 2023, • Identify and assess the risks of material misstatement
and the change in its net assets and its cash flows for the of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to
year then ended in accordance with accounting principles fraud or error, and design and perform audit procedures
generally accepted in the United States of America. responsive to those risks. Such procedures include exam-
ining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and
Basis for Opinion disclosures in the consolidated financial statements.
We conducted our audit in accordance with auditing stan- • Obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to
dards generally accepted in the United States of America the audit in order to design audit procedures that are
(GAAS). Our responsibilities under those standards are fur- appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the pur-
ther described in the Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit pose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the
of the Financial Statements section of our report. We are Organization’s internal control. Accordingly, no such opin-
required to be independent of the Organization and to meet ion is expressed.
our other ethical responsibilities, in accordance with the rel- • Evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used
evant ethical requirements relating to our audit. We believe and the reasonableness of significant accounting estimates
that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and made by management, as well as evaluate the overall pre-
appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinion. sentation of the consolidated financial statements.
Emphasis of Matter • Conclude whether, in our judgment, there are conditions
As discussed in Note 2 to the consolidated financial state- or events, considered in the aggregate, that raise substan-
ments, the 2022 consolidated financial statements have tial doubt about the Organization’s ability to continue as a
been restated to correct a misstatement. Our opinion on the going concern for a reasonable period of time.
2022 consolidated financial statements is not modified with We are required to communicate with those charged with
respect to this matter. governance regarding, among other matters, the planned
Responsibilities of Management scope and timing of the audit, significant audit findings, and
for the Financial Statements certain internal control-related matters that we identified
Management is responsible for the preparation and fair during the audit.
presentation of the consolidated financial statements in Other Matters
accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in The consolidated financial statements of The General Service
the United States of America, and for the design, implemen- Board of Alcoholics Anonymous, Inc. and Affiliates for the
tation, and maintenance of internal control relevant to the year ended December 31, 2022, before restatement for the
preparation and fair presentation of consolidated financial matter described in the Emphasis of Matter paragraph, were
statements that are free from material misstatement, wheth- audited by other auditors, whose report dated April 19, 2023
er due to fraud or error. on those statements was unmodified.
In preparing the consolidated financial statements, man- As part of our audit of the 2022 consolidated financial
agement is required to evaluate whether there are conditions statements, we also audited the adjustments described in
or events, considered in the aggregate, that raise substantial Note 2 that were applied to restate the 2022 consolidated
doubt about the Organization’s ability to continue as a going financial statements. In our opinion, such adjustments are
concern within one year after the date that the consolidated appropriate and have been properly applied.
financial statements are available to be issued. We were not engaged to audit, review, or apply any proce-
Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit dures to the 2022 consolidated financial statements of the
of the Financial Statements Organization other than with respect to the adjustments and,
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about accordingly, we do not express an opinion or any other form
whether the consolidated financial statements as a whole of assurance on the 2022 consolidated financial statements
are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or as a whole.
error, and to issue an auditor’s report that includes our opin-
ion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance but is
not absolute assurance and therefore is not a guarantee that New York, NY May 1, 2024

115
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116

Exhibit A

The General Service Board of Alcoholics Anonymous, Inc. and Affiliates

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION
Year Ended December 31, 2023 (with comparative totals for 2022, as restated)

General Service Board

Capital Postretirement
General Reserve Pension A.A. World A.A. 2022
Projects Medical Total Eliminations 2023
Fund Fund Benefits Services, Inc. Grapevine, Inc. (As restated)
Fund Fund
Assets
Cash and cash equivalents (Note 3) $ 915,860 $ 2,754,519 $- $ 39,082 $- $ 3,709,461 $ 62,072 $ 188,299 $ - $ 3,959,832 $ 3,584,435
Investments (Notes 3, 5, and 7) - 10,449,356 - 7,910,801 - 18,360,157 - - - 18,360,157 18,623,752
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for
credit losses of $48,388 and $84,034, - - - - - - 802,647 275,365 - 1,078,012 765,625
respectively (Note 3)
Inventory (Note 3) - - - - - - 3,777,797 389,141 - 4,166,938 4,484,285
Prepaid expenses and other assets (Note 8) 533,684 - - - 7,183,690 7,717,374 364,483 65,874 - 8,147,731 6,105,137
Due from affiliates/intercompany funds
- - - - - - 3,061,667 291,541 (3,353,208) - -
(Note 9)
Property and equipment, net (Notes 3 and 6) - - 1,445,988 - - 1,445,988 310,759 507,542 - 2,264,289 2,697,502
Operating lease right-of-use asset (Note 10) - - - - - - 1,886,482 - - 1,886,482 2,795,877
Total Assets $1,449,544 $13,203,875 $1,445,988 $7,949,883 $7,183,690 $31,232,980 $10,265,907 $1,717,762 $(3,353,208) $39,863,441 $39,056,613

Liabilities and Net Assets

Liabilities -
Accounts payable and accrued
$2,960,746 $ 573,012 $- $- $- $ 3,533,758 $ 2,452,907 $ 382,103 $(3,353,208) $3,015,560 $ 2,760,143
expenses (Note 9)
Deferred revenue (Note 3) - - - - - - 207,675 1,677,182 - 1,884,857 1,843,340
Postretirement benefit (Note 7) - - - 5,631,648 - 5,631,648 - - - 5,631,648 5,388,395
Operating lease liability (Note 10) - - - - - - 1,886,482 - - 1,886,482 2,812,461

Total Liabilities 2,960,746 573,012 - 5,631,648 - 9,165,406 4,547,064 2,059,285 (3,353,208) 12,418,547 12,804,339

Commitments and Contingencies (Note 3)

Net Assets (Deficit)

(1,511,202) 12,630,863 1,445,988 2,318,235 7,183,690 22,067,574 5,718,843 (341,523) - 27,444,894 26,252,274
Without Donor Restrictions (Note 3)

Total Liabilities and Net Assets $1,449,544 $13,203,875 $1,445,988 $7,949,883 $7,183,690 $31,232,980 $10,265,907 $1,717,762 $(3,353,208) $39,863,441 $39,056,613

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

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Exhibit B

The General Service Board of Alcoholics Anonymous, Inc. and Affiliates

Consolidated Statement of Activities
Year Ended December 31, 2023 (with comparative totals for 2022, as restated)
General Service Board A.A. Grapevine, Inc.
General Reserve Capital Postretirement Pension A.A. World 2022
Total Grapevine La Viña Total 2023
Fund Fund Projects Fund Medical Fund Benefits Services, Inc. (As restated)
Operating Revenue and Support
Gross sales revenue (Note 2) $- $- $- $- $- $ - $14,935,497 $2,602,323 $205,663 $2,807,986 $17,743,483 $15,073,142
Less: discounts - - - (453,695) - - (453,695) (479,174)
Net Sales - - - - - - 14,481,802 2,602,323 205,663 2,807,986 17,289,788 14,593,968
Cost of literature distributed:
Printing - - - - - - (4,591,074) (80,289) - (80,289) (4,671,363) (4,226,183)
Direct shipping and warehousing - - - - - - (3,135,917) (1,319,106) (68,145) (1,387,251) (4,523,168) (3,972,294)
Gross Profit from Literature - - - - - - 6,754,811 1,202,928 137,518 1,340,446 8,095,257 6,395,491
Contributions (Note 3) 10,841,419 - - - - 10,841,419 - - - - 10,841,419 10,687,980
Investment income, net (Notes 3 and 5) - 206,302 - 1,138,041 - 1,344,343 - 6,760 - 6,760 1,351,103 (1,225,222)
Total Operating Revenue and Support 10,841,419 206,302 - 1,138,041 - 12,185,762 6,754,811 1,209,688 137,518 1,347,206 20,287,779 15,858,249
Operating Expenses (Note 3)
Program services 23,451,935 - 407,406 - - 23,859,341 2,758,825 1,865,449 893,267 2,758,716 29,376,882 43,496,998
Supporting services 4,877,851 - 255,330 - - 5,133,181 3,917,582 230,409 - 230,409 9,281,172 10,273,264
Total Operating Expenses 28,329,786 - 662,736 - - 28,992,522 6,676,407 2,095,858 893,267 2,989,125 38,658,054 53,770,262
Change in Net Assets, before non-operating
activities and pension-related changes (17,488,367) 206,302 (662,736) 1,138,041 - (16,806,760) 78,404 (886,170) (755,749) (1,641,919) (18,370,275) (37,912,013)
Non-Operating Activities (Note 3)
GSB support for La Viña (755,749) - - - - (755,749) - - 755,749 755,749 - -
Other revenue 479,186 - - - - 479,186 308 29,026 29,026 508,520 7,711
Intercompany and interfund transfers (Note 9) 271,343 (500,000) 103,234 (374,577) - (500,000) - 500,000 - 500,000 - -
Contributed nonfinancial assets (Notes 2 and 3) 16,899,522 - - - - 16,899,522 - - - - 16,899,522 33,664,366
Total Non-Operating Activities 16,894,302 (500,000) 103,234 (374,577) - 16,122,959 308 529,026 755,749 1,284,775 17,408,042 33,672,077
Change in Net Assets,
(594,065) (293,698) (559,502) 763,464 - (683,801) 78,712 (357,144) - (357,144) (962,233) (4,239,936)
before pension-related changes
Other Components of Net Periodic
- - - (153,428) 536,234 382,806 - - - - 382,806 889,583
Pension Cost (Notes 7 and 8)
Pension and Post-Retirement Changes
- - - (89,825) 1,861,872 1,772,047 - - - - 1,772,047 1,914,099
Other Than Net Periodic Costs (Notes 7 and 8)
Total Change in Net Assets After
- - - (243,253) 2,398,106 2,154,853 - - - - 2,154,853 2,803,682
Pension-Related Changes
Change in Net Assets (Deficit)
(594,065) (293,698) (559,502) 520,211 2,398,106 1,471,052 78,712 (357,144) - (357,144) 1,192,620 (1,436,254)
Without Donor Restrictions
Net Assets Without Donor Restrictions,
(917,137) 12,924,561 2,005,490 1,798,024 4,785,584 20,596,522 5,640,131 15,621 - 15,621 26,252,274 27,688,528
beginning of year, as restated
117

Net Assets Without Donor Restrictions, end of year $(1,511,202) $12,630,863 $1,445,988 $2,318,235 $7,183,690 $22,067,574 $5,718,843 $(341,523) $- $(341,523) $27,444,894 $26,252,274

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

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Exhibit C
The General Service Board of CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF
Alcoholics Anonymous, Inc. and Affiliates FUNCTIONAL EXPENSES
For The Year Ended December 31, 2023 (with comparative totals for 2022, as restated)

PROGRAM SERVICES PROGRAM SERVICES

Literature
Development and
Distribution Communications
Literature — The General — The General Cooperation
Development Service Board of Service Board of with Loners and General
and Distribution Alcoholics Communications Alcoholics Group Public Professional Treatment/ Correctional Overseas Service Regional
— AAWS Anonymous, Inc. — AAWS Anonymous, Inc. Services Information Community Accessibility Facilities Services Conference Forums Archives

Salaries $1,236,262 $394,748 $302,170 $302,148 $313,400 $168,030 $137,795 $117,692 $159,587 $318,682 $174,646 $127,012 $378,116

Payroll taxes and benefits (Notes 7 and 8) 381,395 117,753 90,045 152,091 129,810 28,076 53,926 36,625 53,597 46,284 54,277 54,318 133,491

Total Personnel Costs 1,617,657 512,501 392,215 454,239 443,210 196,106 191,721 154,317 213,184 364,966 228,923 181,330 511,607

Professional fees 162,580 1,584 18,166 20,276 2,351 34,330 10,737 6,430 29,308 43,074 169,343 34,429 6,584

Printing 43,584 - 22,063 20,343 78,110 1,382 8,454 278 13,158 1,056 86,006 22,515 4,861

Data, automation, and website 30,338 7,821 92,325 102,742 8,686 1,990 3,478 2,303 3,478 2,890 3,478 3,478 9,775

Selling expenses - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Insurance - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Facility and equipment 192,922 55,768 - 74,517 62,134 13,256 24,876 16,473 24,876 21,052 25,118 24,901 77,441

Travel and meetings 888 - - - 2,412 6,244 52,030 6,660 1,676 85,714 1,165,611 190,145 3,056

Bad debt expense - - - - - - - - - - - - -

E-commerce and bank service fees - - - - 129,644 - - - - 275 122 15 -

Depreciation and amortization (Note 6) 186,056 - - - - - - - - - - - -

Stationery and office supplies - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Office services and expenses - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Miscellaneous - - 31 - - - - - - 17,110 - - -

Inventory obsolescence (Note 3) - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Contributed nonfinancial assets — advertising (Note 3) - - - - - 16,899,522 - - - - - - -

Delegate fees

Total Expenses, before pension and capital project changes 2,234,025 577,674 524,800 672,117 726,547 17,152,830 291,296 186,461 285,680 536,137 1,678,601 456,813 613,324

Less: net periodic pension and post- retirement cost - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Plus: capital projects depreciation - 51,295 - 71,201 59,369 11,832 23,769 15,740 23,769 19,755 30,085 23,769 59,369

Total Expenses $2,234,025 $628,969 $524,800 $743,318 $785,916 $17,164,662 $315,065 $202,201 $309,449 $555,892 $1,708,686 $480,582 $672,693

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

118 119
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120

Exhibit C (Continued)
The General Service Board of Alcoholics Anonymous, Inc. and Affiliates
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FUNCTIONAL EXPENSES
(with comparative totals for 2022, as restated)
Year Ended December 31, 2023

PROGRAM SERVICES SUPPORTING SERVICES

Total General Total
Program Service Supporting 2022
Nominating Grapevine La Viña Services Board AAWS Grapevine Services 2023 (As restated)
Salaries $157,549 $941,565 $528,903 $5,758,305 $2,343,336 $1,837,884 $61,449 $4,242,669 $10,000,974 $8,857,251
Payroll taxes and benefits (Notes 7 and 8) 54,296 210,099 112,305 1,708,388 676,271 510,042 - 1,186,313 2,894,701 3,385,332

Total Personnel Costs 211,845 1,151,664 641,208 7,466,693 3,019,607 2,347,926 61,449 5,428,982 12,895,675 12,242,583
Professional fees 9,614 105,102 134,224 788,132 657,784 635,036 14,726 1,307,546 2,095,678 2,145,867

Printing 60 - - 301,870 140,058 131,518 - 271,576 573,446 420,891

Data, automation, and website 3,478 - - 276,260 151,568 145,765 - 297,333 573,593 517,237

Selling expenses - 200,265 56,549 256,814 - - - - 256,814 267,536

Insurance - - 2,535 2,535 37,169 33,715 - 70,884 73,419 69,575

Facility and equipment 24,876 63,627 9,271 711,108 316,111 269,439 1,092 586,642 1,297,750 1,278,417

Travel and meetings 24,582 - - 1,539,018 532,692 75,999 - 608,691 2,147,709 1,854,243

Bad debt expense - - - - - 44,749 - 44,749 44,749 80,465

E-commerce and bank service fees - - - 130,056 2,197 12,646 - 14,843 144,899 120,467

Depreciation and amortization (Note 6) - - - 186,056 - 207,839 82,259 290,098 476,154 342,219

Stationery and office supplies - - - - - - - - - 23,893

Office services and expenses - 194,076 - 194,076 - - - - 194,076 211,799

Miscellaneous - 150,715 49,480 217,336 20,665 12,950 70,883 104,498 321,834 17,179

Inventory obsolescence (Note 3) - - - - - - - - - 821,900

Contributed nonfinancial assets – advertising (Note 3) - - - 16,899,522 - - - - 16,899,522 33,664,366

Delegate fees (328,240)

Total Expenses, before pension and capital project changes 274,455 1,865,449 893,267 28,969,476 4,877,851 3,917,582 230,409 9,025,842 37,995,318 53,750,397
Less: net periodic pension and post-retirement cost - - - - - - - - - (889,583)
Plus: capital projects depreciation 17,453 - - 407,406 255,330 - - 255,330 662,736 909,448
Total Expenses $291,908 $1,865,449 $893,267 $29,376,882 $5,133,181 $3,917,582 $230,409 $9,281,172 $38,658,054 $53,770,262
 CONTENTS

Exhibit D

The General Service Board

of Alcoholics Anonymous, Inc. and Affiliates
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows
(with comparative totals for 2022, as restated)
For the Year Ended December 31, 2023
2022
2023
(As restated)
Cash Flows from Operating Activities
Change in net assets $1,192,620 $(1,436,254)
Adjustments to reconcile change in net assets to
net cash used in operating activities:
Pension-related changes other than
(1,861,872) 15,708
net periodic pension cost
Postretirement-related changes other than
89,825 (1,929,807)
net periodic cost
Unrealized loss (gain) on investments (997,644) 1,431,213
Realized gain on investments (16,611) -
Bad debt 44,749 80,465
Non-cash operating lease expense 29,861 41,354
Depreciation and amortization 1,138,889 1,251,667
Changes in assets and liabilities:
(Increase) decrease in assets:
Accounts receivable (357,136) (288,578)
Inventory 317,347 (819,356)
Prepaid expenses and other assets (2,042,594) (1,482,491)
Increase (decrease) in liabilities:
Accounts payable and accrued expenses 255,417 844,781
Deferred revenue 41,517 (31,929)
Postretirement benefits 2,015,300 (64,117)
Accrued pension benefits - (15,708)
Principal reduction in operating lease liability (46,445) (24,770)
Net Cash Used in Operating Activities (196,777) (2,427,822)

Cash Flows from Investing Activities

Purchases of investments (7,471,050) (4,695,258)
Proceeds from sales of investments 8,748,900 1,945,505
Acquisition of property and equipment (705,676) (496,340)
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities 572,174 (3,246,093)

Net Increase (Decrease) in Cash and Cash Equivalents 375,397 (5,673,915)

Cash and Cash Equivalents, beginning of year 3,584,435 9,258,350
Cash and Cash Equivalents, end of year $3,959,832 $3,584,435

Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information

Operating lease asset obtained in exchange for
$- $3,726,411
operating lease liability — upon adoption

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

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THE GENERAL SERVICE BOARD Postretirement Medical Fund — In 2016, a goal of accu-
OF ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS, INC. mulating assets was established to fund 100% of the lia-
bility by 2025. The goal was achieved in 2022 (see Notes
AND AFFILIATES 4 and 8).
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
2. Net Asset Restatement
1. Organization and Nature of Activities The beginning balances of net assets without donor restric-
The General Service Board of Alcoholics Anonymous, tions as of January 1, 2023 have been restated to properly
Inc., (GSB) and its affiliates, Alcoholics Anonymous reflect the contribution of nonfinancial assets related to
World Services, Inc. (AAWS) and Alcoholics Anonymous public service announcement activities. As a result of
Grapevine, Inc. (AAGV) (collectively, the Organization), are the changes, the Organization’s contributed nonfinancial
not-for-profit organizations organized in New York for the assets increased from $0 to $33,664,366 and the total
purpose of assisting in the formation of A.A. groups and expenses increased from $20,105,896 to $53,770,262.
coordinating the A.A. program of rehabilitating alcoholics There was no impact on 2022 net assets without donor
throughout the world, and publishing books, magazines, restrictions.
pamphlets, and other material directly related to that pur-
pose. The trustees of GSB are ex officio members of AAWS Consolidated Statement of Activities
and AAGV, and as such, elect their boards of directors. As Year ended December 31, 2022
members, they also have the sole right to amend the AAWS As Previously
and AAGV bylaws and approve their budgets. Reported Adjustments As Restated
GSB, AAWS, and AAGV are exempt from federal income Contributed nonfinancial
$ - $33,664,366 $33,664,366
taxes under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code assets
(IRC). Total non-operating activities 7,711 33,664,366 33,672,077
Program expenses 9,832,632 33,664,366 43,496,998
The activities of GSB are conducted in four separate
funds, as follows: Total operating expenses 20,105,896 33,664,366 53,770,262

General Fund — This fund is comprised of those assets Consolidated Statement of Functional Expenses
not included in any of the other funds and that may be Year ended December 31, 2022
used for any purpose for which the Organization was
As Previously
formed. These purposes presently include activities related Reported Adjustments As Restated
to communication and information services to A.A. groups
and members; public information; cooperation with the Contributed nonfinancial
$ - $33,664,366 $33,664,366
assets — advertising
professional community; and regional, national, and inter-
national meetings, conferences, and conventions. Total expenses 20,105,896 33,664,366 53,770,262
Reserve Fund — This fund was established in 1954 for
the purpose of accumulating a prudent operating reserve, 3. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
which during 1977, was redefined by a special General Principles of Consolidation
Service Board Committee as the prior year’s combined The consolidated financial statements of the Organization
operating expenses of AAWS, AAGV, and the general fund have been prepared by consolidating the financial state-
of GSB. The committee also recommended that all invest- ments of GSB, AAWS, and AAGV. All intercompany transac-
ment activities of the operating entities be consolidated tions and balances (when applicable) have been eliminat-
into the Reserve Fund. That advisory action was approved ed in the consolidation.
by the Board of Trustees and since that time, all funds of
the operating entities in excess of those required for work- Basis of Presentation
ing capital have generally been transferred to the Reserve The accompanying consolidated financial statements of
Fund. Included in such transfers from AAGV have been the Organization have been prepared on the accrual basis
amounts held for unfulfilled subscriptions reflected as a of accounting. The Organization adheres to accounting
liability of the Reserve Fund on the accompanying con- principles generally accepted in the United States of
solidated statement of financial position. Any withdrawals America (GAAP).
from the Reserve Fund must be specifically authorized
by GSB upon recommendation of the Trustee’s Finance Net Assets
Committee. In 2022, the General Service Board adopted The Organization maintains its net assets under the fol-
a Statement of Investment Policy to codify all aspects of lowing classes:
the Reserve Fund, including its purpose, its use, where it is Without Donor Restrictions — This class represents net
invested and reported, and who has authority and respon- assets not subject to donor-imposed stipulations and that
sibility for Reserve Fund actions. have no time restrictions. Such resources are available for
Capital Projects Fund — This fund accounts for the cost support of the Organization’s operations over which the
of leasehold improvements and computer hardware and Board of Directors has discretionary control.
software incurred under major capital projects and records With Donor Restrictions — This class represents net
depreciation and amortization on such assets. assets subject to donor-imposed stipulations that will be

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three levels based on the degree to which the exit price

is independently observable or determinable, as follows:
Level 1 — Valuations are based on quoted market prices
in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. Since
valuations are based on quoted prices that are readily
and regularly available in an active market, valuation
of these products does not entail a significant degree of
judgment.
Level 2 — Valuations are based on quoted market prices
of investments that are not actively traded or for which
certain significant inputs are not observable, either
directly or indirectly, such as quoted prices for similar
assets or liabilities, quoted prices in markets that are
not active, or other inputs that are observable or can be
corroborated by observable market data for substantially
the full term of the assets or liabilities.
Level 3 — Valuations are based on inputs that are unob-
servable and reflect management’s best estimate of
what market participants would use as fair value.
Investment return, net, is recognized when earned and
consists of interest, dividends, and realized and unrealized
met by actions of the Organization or by the passage of gains and losses, less direct external investment expenses.
time. When a stipulated time restriction ends or purpose Dividends are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Purchases
restriction is accomplished, such net assets with donor and sales are recorded on a trade-date basis.
restrictions are reclassified to net assets without donor
restrictions and reported in the consolidated statement Inventory
of activities as net assets released from restrictions. The Inventory is valued at the lower of cost or net realizable
Organization had no net assets with donor restrictions as value, as determined on the weighted-average cost meth-
of December 31, 2023. od. Net realizable value is defined as the estimated selling
The Organization does not accept contributions with price (in the ordinary course of business) less reasonably
restrictions. Therefore, all net assets of the Organization expected costs for completion, disposal, and transporta-
are net assets without donor restrictions as of December tion. Literature distributed without charge is included in
31, 2023. the cost of printing as a reduction of inventory. Inventory
costs include paper, printing, binding, and shipping. For
Cash and Cash Equivalents the year ended December 31, 2022, the Organization
The Organization considers all highly liquid investments recorded inventory obsolescence of $821,900 related to
with a maturity of three months or less when acquired to paper purchased and shipped to third-party printers for
be cash equivalents, except for cash equivalents held as the production of certain books. The Organization records
part of the Organization’s investment portfolio. such a write-down to reflect the net realizable value of
inventory on an as needed basis and there was no such
Fair Value Measurements
related obsolescence for the year ended December 31,
GAAP establishes a hierarchy for inputs used in mea- 2023.
suring fair value that maximizes the use of observable
inputs and minimizes the use of unobservable inputs by Property and Equipment, Net
requiring that inputs that are most observable be used Property and equipment acquisitions are stated at cost,
when available. Observable inputs are those that market less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is charged to
participants operating within the same marketplace as the expense on the straight-line basis over the estimated use-
Organization would use in pricing the Organization’s asset ful life of each asset.
or liability based on independently derived and observable The estimated useful lives for each major depreciable
market data. Unobservable inputs are inputs that cannot classification of property and equipment are as follows:
be sourced from a broad active market in which assets or
Asset Category Years
liabilities identical or similar to those of the Organization
are traded. The Organization estimates the price of any Furniture and equipment 8
asset or liability for which there are only unobservable Software and hardware 3-5
inputs by using assumptions that market participants that Website 5
have investments in the same or similar assets or liabilities Leasehold Improvements Life of lease
would use as determined by the money managers for each
investment based on best information available in the The Organization’s policy is to capitalize all capital assets
circumstances. The input hierarchy is broken down into with an individual acquisition cost exceeding $1,000.

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Leases related the history of the ratio of bad debts to accounts

Leases are classified as operating leases based on the receivable with economic data and noted that the ratio
underlying terms of the agreement and certain criteria, increased in four of the last five recessions. Therefore,
such as the term of the lease related to the useful life management has determined that the allowance for credit
of the asset and the total lease payments to be made as losses should be increased when a recession is forecast
compared to the fair value of the asset, amongst other for the coming year. However, since economic growth
criteria. For leases with initial terms greater than a year is forecast for 2024, management has not adjusted the
(or greater than one year remaining under the lease at the allowance for credit loss as of December 31, 2023 for
date of adoption of Accounting Standards Update [ASU] current and future economic conditions.
2016-02), the Organization records the related right-of-
Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements
use (ROU) assets and liabilities at the present value of the
lease payments to be paid over the life of the related lease. Financial Instruments — Credit Losses (Topic 326)
Variable lease payments are excluded from the amounts The Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued
used to determine the ROU assets and liabilities unless the ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments — Credit Losses (Topic
variable lease payments depend on an index or rate or are 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments.
in substance, fixed payments. Lease payments related to The new credit losses standard changes the impairment
periods subject to renewal options are also excluded from model for most financial assets and certain other instru-
the amounts used to determine the ROU assets and liabil- ments. For trade and other receivables, contract assets
ities unless the Organization is reasonably certain to exer- recognized as a result of applying Accounting Standards
cise the option to extend the lease. The present value of Codification (ASC) 606, loans, and certain other instru-
lease payments is calculated by utilizing the discount rate ments, entities will be required to use new forward-looking
stated in the lease, when readily determinable. For leases expected-loss model that generally will result in earlier
for which this rate is not readily available, the Organization recognition of credit losses than under today’s incurred-loss
has elected to use a risk-free discount rate determined model. ASU 2016-13 is effective for annual periods begin-
using a period comparable with that of the lease term. The ning after December 15, 2022. The Organization adopted
Organization has made an accounting policy election not the ASU effective January 1, 2023 using the modified retro-
to separate lease components from nonlease components spective method for all financial assets measured at amor-
in contracts when determining its lease payments for all tized cost and off-balance-sheet credit exposures, which
of its asset classes, as permitted by ASU 2016-02. As such, included loans held for investment and commitments to
the Organization accounts for the applicable nonlease extend credit (loan commitments and stand-by letters of
components together with the related lease components credit), respectively. The Organization does not have any
when determining the ROU assets and liabilities. The securities classified as held to maturity. Results for report-
Organization has made an accounting policy election not ing periods beginning after January 1, 2023 are presented
to record leases with an initial term of less than a year as under ASC 326, while prior-period amounts are reported in
ROU assets and liabilities. accordance with previously applicable GAAP. At adoption,
Accounts Receivable, Net the Organization recognized an allowance for credit losses
Trade receivables include receivables due within 30 days on its accounts receivable of $48,338 and a decrease in net
for a range of literature and related materials for the assets without donor restrictions of $48,338.
purpose of recovery from alcoholism including books, Revenue Recognition
pamphlets, flyers, video, and audio recordings. Receivables The Organization earns revenue from the publication of
consist of amounts billed to entities both within and magazines and distribution of literature. Magazine revenue
outside the A.A. service structure such as Intergroups,
is recorded as subscriptions are fulfilled. Revenue from the
Central Offices, International General Service Offices,
distribution of other publications is recognized when goods
districts, areas, groups, meetings, government entities,
are shipped. Performance obligations are identified in the
book retailers, and addiction treatment organizations in
arrangement based on the relative standalone selling price
exchange for obligations that take place during the year.
of each publication and are recognized as revenue when
As noted below, the Organization adopted the provisions
the subscriptions are fulfilled or when shipped. Payments
of ASU 2016-13 for the year ended December 31, 2023.
received in advance related to subscriptions are reflected
Accounts receivable are presented net of an allowance for
as deferred revenue on the accompanying consolidated
credit losses, which is an estimate of amounts that may
statement of financial position. Revenue is accounted for
not be collectible. The Organization estimates credit losses
under FASB ASU 2014-09. Accounts receivable, net balanc-
based on management’s historical collection experience,
es were as follows:
adjusted for management’s expectations about current
and future economic conditions. At December 31, 2023, December 31, 2023
the Organization determined that historic and future Contract
Receivable
loss rates will be consistent during the next fiscal year Liabilities
and considered the need for any additional qualitative Beginning of year $765,625 $1,843,340
adjustments and concluded for 2023 to record $48,338
End of year 1,078,012 1,884,857
allowance on outstanding balances. Management has cor-

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 CONTENTS

Contributions Functional Allocation of Expenses

The General Service Board accepts contributions from The cost of providing the various program and supporting
A.A groups and members. Contributions are non-ex- services has been summarized on a functional basis in
change transactions in which no commensurate value is the accompanying consolidated statement of functional
exchanged. Therefore, contributions fall under the purview expenses. Accordingly, certain costs have been allocated
of ASC Topic 958, Not-for-Profit Entities. Contributions are among the program and supporting services benefited.
recorded as increases in net assets with or without donor The Organization only considers costs that are directly
restrictions, depending on the existence and/or nature of spent for the fellowship as program expenses. Other
any donor restrictions. Contributions that are restricted expenses are not indirectly allocated and are considered
by the donor are considered as increases in net assets supporting services.
without donor restrictions if the restrictions are satisfied
Use of Estimates
in the period in which the contributions are recognized.
The Organization does not receive or solicit pledges, The preparation of consolidated financial statements in
so contributions are recorded as revenue when cash is conformity with GAAP requires management to make esti-
received. The Organization does not accept contributions mates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts
with restrictions. For the year ended December 31, 2023, of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.
all contributions were included in net assets without donor Actual results could differ from those estimates.
restrictions. Income Taxes
A contribution, gift, or grant is conditional if an agree- The Organization is exempt from federal, state, and
ment includes a barrier that must be overcome and either local income taxes under Section 501(c)(3) of the IRC
a right of return of assets transferred or a right or release and, therefore, has made no provision for income taxes
of a promisor’s obligation to transfer assets. The presence in the accompanying financial statements. In addition,
of both a barrier and a right of return or right of release the Organization has been determined by the Internal
indicates that a recipient’s promises to give are not recog- Revenue Service (IRS) not to be a “private foundation”
nized until they become unconditional—that is, when the within the meaning of Section 509(a) of the IRC.
barriers in the agreement are overcome. As of December Under ASC 740, an organization must recognize the
31, 2023, there were no conditional contributions. financial statement effects of a tax position taken for tax
Contributed Nonfinancial Assets return purposes when it is more likely than not that the
Contributions of nonfinancial assets are recognized when position will not be sustained upon examination by a tax-
goods or services received if they (a) create or enhance ing authority. The Organization does not believe that it has
nonfinancial assets or (b) require specialized skills, and taken any material uncertain tax positions and, accord-
are provided by individuals possessing those skills, and ingly, it has not recorded any liability for unrecognized
would typically need to be purchased if not donated. tax benefits. The Organization has filed for and received
Contributed nonfinancial assets are recorded at their esti- income tax exemptions in the jurisdictions where it is
mated values at the time that such nonfinancial assets are required to do so. Additionally, the Organization has filed
contributed. IRS Form 990 information returns, as required, and all
other applicable returns in jurisdictions where so required.
The Organization receives free airtime for Public Service
For the year ended December 31, 2023, there were no
Announcements (PSAs) from broadcast stations and other
income tax-related interest or penalties recorded or includ-
media outlets. The fair value of the free PSAs received
ed in the consolidated statement of activities.
totaled $16,899,522 and $33,664,366 for the years ended
December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, and is reflect- Concentration of Credit Risk
ed as contributed nonfinancial assets in the consolidated Cash and cash equivalents that potentially subject the
statement of activities and contributed nonfinancial assets Organization to a concentration of credit risk include cash
— advertising on in the consolidated statement of func- accounts with a bank that may exceed the Federal Deposit
tional expenses.
Year ended December 31, 2023
Financial Statement Revenue Utilization in
Donor Restrictions Valuation Techniques/Inputs
Disaggregation Recognized Programs/Activities
Estimated fair-market value based on other
Contributed nonfinancial Public Service No donor
$16,899,522 observable inputs (Level 2) gathered from the
assets Announcements restrictions
nation’s largest media buying services.

Year ended December 31, 2022

Financial Statement Revenue Utilization in
Donor Restrictions Valuation Techniques/Inputs
Disaggregation Recognized Programs/Activities
Estimated fair-market value based on other
Contributed nonfinancial Public Service No donor
$ 33,664,366 observable inputs (Level 2) gathered from the
assets Announcements restrictions
nation’s largest media buying services.

125
 CONTENTS

Insurance Corporation (FDIC) insurance limits. Accounts 5. Investments

are insured up to $250,000 per depositor per insured As described in Note 1, all funds of the Organization not
financial institution. The financial institutions have strong required for working capital are invested in the Reserve
credit ratings and management believes that credit risk Fund of GSB In accordance with established policy, the
related to these accounts is minimal. Reserve Fund invests in certificates of deposit.
Risks and Uncertainties — Investments The postretirement medical fund holds investments
The Organization’s investments consist of a variety of designed to assist in reaching the stated goal of accumulating
investment securities. Such securities are subject to vari- assets equal to 100% of the accrued postretirement health
ous risks that determine the value of the funds, such as benefits by December 31, 2025. The goal was achieved in
interest rate, credit, and overall market volatility risk. Due 2022. This fund invests in bond and equity mutual funds.
to the level of risk associated with certain securities and Investments recorded at fair value have been catego-
the level of uncertainty related to changes in the value of rized based upon a fair value hierarchy in accordance with
these securities, it is reasonably possible that changes in GAAP. See Note 3 for a discussion of the Organization’s
market conditions in the near term could materially affect policies regarding this hierarchy.
the value of the Organization’s investments reported in the The financial assets are classified in their entirety based
accompanying consolidated financial statements. on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair
Operating Measure value measurement. The Organization’s assessment of the
significance of a particular input to the fair value measure-
The Organization includes in its definition of operations
ment requires judgment and may affect the placement
all revenues and expenses that are an integral part of its
within the fair value hierarchy levels.
program and supporting activities. Changes in retirement
liabilities, support for La Viña, contributed nonfinancial A description of the valuation techniques applied to the
assets, and intercompany and interfund transfers are rec- Organization’s assets measured at fair value is as follows:
ognized as non-operating activities. Mutual Funds — These investments are carried at their
aggregate market value, as determined by quoted market
Reclassifications
prices. These investments are classified as Level 1.
Certain prior-year amounts have been reclassified to conform
Certificates of Deposit — These investments are priced by
to the current-year presentation. The reclassifications have
the investment managers using nationally recognized pric-
no effect on net assets or operating results of the prior year.
ing services. These investments are classified as Level 2.
4. Liquidity and Availability of Resources The following table represents the Organization’s fair
for Operating Expenditures value hierarchy for those assets measured at fair value:
The Organization regularly monitors its financial assets December 31, 2023
available to meet general expenditures during the course Fair Value Level 1 Level 2 Level 3
of 12 months. It operates within a budget and anticipates
Reserve Fund:
collecting sufficient revenue to cover general expenditures.
Certificates of deposit $10,449,356 $- $10,449,356 $-
The Organization has eight non-interest-bearing accounts
that enable it to meet these needs. Postretirement medical fund:
Mutual funds
The Organization considers all expenditures related to — bond funds
2,875,460 2,875,460 - -
its ongoing programs, as well as services undertaken to Mutual funds
5,035,341 5,035,341 - -
support these activities, to be general expenditures. — equity funds
The Organization’s liquid financial assets were as follows: 7,910,801 7,910,801 - -
December 31, 2023 Total Investments $18,360,157 $7,910,801 $10,449,356 $-

Cash and cash equivalents $1,205,313

There have been no changes in the methodologies used
Investments 18,360,157 at December 31, 2023. There were no transfers between
Accounts receivable, net 1,078,012 levels during the year ended December 31, 2023.
20,643,482
6. Property and Equipment, Net
Less: assets held for postretirement medical fund (7,949,883)
Property and equipment consisted of the following:
Less: long-term investments held in Reserve Fund (1,530,470)
December 31, 2023
Total Financial Assets Available to Management
for General Expenditures Within One Year $11,163,129 Furniture and equipment $663,267
Software and hardware 3,060,811
The Reserve Fund is not considered available for opera- Website 400,111
tions. The Reserve Fund may be available to management Leasehold improvements 2,231,416
for the Organization at the discretion and approval of the Total Cost 6,355,605
General Service Board. Cash and cash equivalents in the
Less: accumulated depreciation and amortization (4,091,316)
Reserve Fund amounted to $2,754,519 as of December
Net Book Value $2,264,289
31, 2023.

126
 CONTENTS

Depreciation and amortization expense amounted to panying consolidated statement of financial position as of
$1,138,889 for the year ended December 31, 2023. December 31, 2023.
Contributions expected to be paid to the plan during the
7. Postretirement Health Benefits next fiscal year amounted to $330,215.
The Organization provides health care benefits for retired Included in net assets without donor restrictions is an
employees, substantially all of whom become eligible unamortized net loss of $89,825 as of December 31, 2023,
if they attain retirement age while working at the GSO. which has not yet been recognized as a component of net
Benefits are provided through health insurance contracts periodic benefit cost.
maintained by the Organization. The expected postretirement benefits to be paid for the
For employees hired before 2004, 25% of the cost is next nine years are as follows:
borne by the retirees.
2024 $330,215
For employees hired after January 1, 2004 through June
30, 2016, there is a three-tier structure in the level of group 2025 345,016
medical insurance premiums paid for on behalf of employ- 2026 339,968
ees who retire directly from the GSO. For employees with 2027 348,697
five to nine years of service, the Organization pays 25%, 2028 343,876
ten to 15 years, 50%, and more than 15 years, 75%.
2029-2033 1,755,825
In March 2016, the Organization decided to no longer
provide health care benefits upon retirement for employ- 8. Retirement Plans
ees hired after June 30, 2016. The Organization adopted a defined benefit pension plan
Change in benefit obligation is as follows: (the Plan) effective January 1, 1965 to provide retirement
December 31, 2023 benefits to eligible employees who have completed one
Benefit Obligation, beginning of year $5,388,395
year of service.
Service cost 52,170
The Plan provides an annual benefit equal to 2% of final
average compensation multiplied by years of service (not
Interest cost 272,577
to exceed 35 years), less 0.65% of average social security
Plan participants’ contributions 127,069 earnings multiplied by years of service (not to exceed 30
Actuarial gain 238,693 years). The social security offset cannot reduce the gross
Benefits paid (447,256) benefit by more than 50%.
Benefit Obligation, end of the year $5,631,648 The funding status of the Plan is as follows:
December 31, 2023
As described in Note 1, a postretirement medical fund Change in Benefit Obligation
has been created by the Board with the purpose of accu- Benefit obligation, beginning of year $25,570,160
mulating assets to fund 100% of the postretirement health
Service cost 175,129
benefits liability. As of December 31, 2023, this fund had
assets with a fair value of $7,949,883. As required under Interest cost 1,297,132
GAAP, such assets are not reported net of the related post- Actuarial gain 823,958
retirement benefit obligation on the accompanying consol- Benefits paid (1,837,982)
idated statement of financial position.
Benefit Obligation, end of year 26,028,397
The net change in the retirement liability is reported as
Fair value of plan assets 33,212,087
non-operating activity in the accompanying consolidated
statement of activities and amounted to $(243,253) for the Funded Status 7,183,690
year ended December 31, 2023. Prepaid Pension Benefit Obligation, recognized in
The components of the net periodic benefit cost are as the consolidated statement of financial position $7,183,690
follows:
The components of the net periodic benefit cost are as
Year ended December 31, 2023 follows:
Service cost $52,170
Year ended December 31, 2023
Interest cost 272,577
Service cost $175,129
Amortization of net gain 171,319
Interest cost 1,297,132
Net Periodic Cost $496,066
Expected return on Plan assets (2,055,771)
The assumed health care cost trend rate used to mea- Amortization of actuarial gain 47,276
sure the expected cost of benefits covered by the plan was Net Periodic Cost $(536,234)
4.037% as of December 31, 2023, and the ultimate trend
rate is anticipated to be 4.037% by 2075. A discount rate Other changes in Plan assets and benefit obligations rec-
of 5.02% has been used to measure the accrued postre- ognized in the change in net assets without donor restric-
tirement health benefit obligation reflected on the accom- tions are as follows:

127
 CONTENTS

Year ended December 31, 2023 contributions to the defined contribution plan amounted
to approximately $317,000.
Actuarial gain $1,814,596
Prior service cost - 9. Intercompany and Interfund Transactions
Amortization of actuarial gain 47,276
As of December 31, 2023, GSB owed AAWS $2,363,051 for
Net Periodic Benefit $1,861,872 various organizational expenses.
The Reserve Fund of GSB includes transfers from AAGV
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine bene-
that represent amounts held for unfulfilled subscriptions.
fit obligations were as follows:
This balance amounted to $573,012 as of December 31,
December 31, 2023 (%) 2023. The liability was reduced to $540,000 in January
Discount rate 5.00 2024. The balance is reflected as an asset of AAGV and a
Salary increases 3.00 liability of the Reserve Fund of G.S.B on the accompany-
Expected long-term return on assets 7.00
ing consolidated statement of financial position.
Additionally, $374,577 was transferred from the post-
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net retirement medical fund to the General Fund for the year
periodic pension cost were as follows: ended December 31, 2023. Funds of $103,234 were trans-
Year ended December 31, 2023 (%) ferred from the General Fund and AAWS to the Capital
Discount rate 5.25
Projects Fund for the year ended December 31, 2023.
Salary increases 3.00
10. Leases
Expected long-term return on assets 7.00
AAWS, as fiscal agent for GSB and AAGV, has a lease agree-
ment for the office space at 475 Riverside Drive in New
The expected rate of return on Plan assets is determined
York City expiring in December 2025.
by those assets’ historical long-term investment perfor-
mance, current asset allocation, and estimates of future Operating lease ROU asset and operating lease liability
long-term returns by asset class. are recorded in the accompanying consolidated statement
The fair value of Plan assets were classified as follows: of financial position.
The following table summarizes information related to
December 31, 2023
the lease asset and liability:
Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total
Year ended December 31, 2023
Cash and cash equivalents $1,633,578 $- $- $1,633,578
Operating Lease Cost 955,572
Mutual funds
17,573,579 - - 17,573,579 Other information:
— domestic equity
Mutual funds Cash paid for accounts included in the measurement
4,013,004 - - 4,013,004
— international equity of lease liabilities:
Mutual funds Operating cash flows from operating leases 925,711
9,991,926 - - 9,991,926
— bond funds
Weighted-average remaining lease term
$33,212,087 $- $- $33,212,087 2
— operating leases (years)
Weighted-average discount rate – operating leases (%) 1.25
The expected benefits to be paid for the next ten years
are as follows: The following table reconciles the undiscounted operat-
2024 $1,961,475 ing lease payments to the lease liabilities recorded on the
2025 1,901,411 accompanying consolidated statement of financial posi-
tion at December 31, 2023:
2026 1,889,948
2027 1,819,938 Year ending December 31,
2028 1,753,302 2024 955,572
2029-2033 8,275,220 2025 955,572
Total Lease Payments 1,911,144
For the year ended December 31, 2023, the Organization
Less: imputed interest (24,662)
did not contribute to the Plan.
Effective January 1, 2013, the Organization implement- Present Value of Net Minimum Lease Payments 1,886,482
ed a soft freeze of the Plan. Employees in the Plan as of
December 31, 2012 continue to accrue benefits; however, 11. Subsequent Events
employees hired after that date are eligible to participate Management has evaluated, for potential recognition and
in a new defined contribution plan. The Organization disclosure, events subsequent to the date of the consolidat-
contributes 5% of eligible salary plus a 50% match on ed statement of financial position through May 1, 2024,
employee contributions up to a maximum of 5% of the date the consolidated financial statements were avail-
eligible salary. For the year ended December 31, 2023, able to be issued.

128
 CONTENTS

Keeping the spirit alive! Come to

Stepping Stones and play Lois W.’s piano. 129
 CONTENTS
INDIVIDUAL CONTRIBUTION REPORT
130

Total Average
# Active # Groups % Groups Contributed
Contribution Average % of Total Area Group
CREDIT TO # Contributions Groups Contributed Contributed by a Group
Amount Contribution Contribution $ Contributions for the Year
Birthday 2,460 $211,052 $85.79 6% 006 - Northern Coastal California 1,791 687 38.36% $258,079 $375.66
Group 9,059 $1,163,552 $128.44 33% 007 - Northern Interior California 835 340 40.72% $116,092 $341.45
Individual 11,144 $1,212,478 $108.80 34% 008 - San Diego/Imperial California 603 275 45.61% $79,672 $289.71
Meeting* 286 $34,464 $120.50 1% 009 - Mid-Southern California 1,934 544 28.13% $179,869 $330.64
Memorial 242 $174,712 $721.95 5% 010 - Colorado 925 334 36.11% $118,933 $356.09
Special 274 $68,472 $249.90 2% 011 - Connecticut 556 375 67.45% $109,124 $291.00
Not Specified 3,759 $675,374 $179.67 19% 012 - Delaware 243 104 42.80% $44,178 $424.79
TOTAL 27,224 $3,540,104 $130.04 100% 013 - District Of Columbia 437 95 21.74% $34,092 $358.87
Most common contribution by an individual $50.00 014 - North Florida 944 362 38.35% $135,725 $374.93
015 - S
 o. Florida/ Bahamas/
2,035 692 34.00% $266,863 $385.64
US Virgin Islands/ Antigua
INDIVIDUAL CONTRIBUTIONS BY DOLLAR AMOUNT 016 - Georgia 617 347 56.24% $129,675 $373.70
Number % of Total Dollars % of Total 017 - Hawaii 300 108 36.00% $43,031 $398.44
Less than $50 11,499 42.24% $251,808 7.11% 018 - Idaho 248 86 34.68% $34,745 $404.01
$50 to $100 8,443 31.01% $615,029 17.37% 019 - Chicago Illinois 946 118 12.47% $32,146 $272.42
$100 to $150 2,181 8.01% $282,392 7.98% 020 - Northern Illinois 793 258 32.53% $60,174 $233.23
$150 to $200 1,745 6.41% $324,760 9.17% 021 - Southern Illinois 423 96 22.70% $23,943 $249.40
$200 to $300 1,355 4.98% $345,129 9.75% 022 - Northern Indiana 559 150 26.83% $29,907 $199.38
$300 to $400 647 2.38% $230,244 6.50% 023 - Southern Indiana 770 184 23.90% $35,665 $193.83
$400 to $500 559 2.05% $262,101 7.40% 024 - Iowa 646 222 34.37% $65,708 $295.98
$500 to $600 160 0.59% $69,318 1.96% 025 - Kansas 331 91 27.49% $29,466 $323.80
$600 to $700 80 0.29% $72,012 2.03% 026 - Kentucky 820 211 25.73% $67,697 $320.84
$700 to $800 66 0.24% $49,410 1.40% 027 - Louisiana 656 106 16.16% $39,896 $376.38
$800 to $900 50 0.18% $42,635 1.20% 028 - Maine 521 163 31.29% $32,084 $196.84
$900 to $1,000 153 0.56% $151,788 4.29% 029 - Maryland 929 259 27.88% $70,370 $271.70
$1,000 to $5,000 275 1.01% $737,215 20.82% 030 - Eastern Massachusetts 1,443 410 28.41% $121,176 $295.55
$5,001 to $10,000 (bequests) 11 0.04% $106,262 3.00% 031 - Western Massachusetts 309 113 36.57% $22,053 $195.16
TOTAL 27,224 100% $3,540,104 100% 032 - Central Michigan 696 158 22.70% $31,695 $200.60
033 - Southeastern Michigan 936 178 19.02% $40,967 $230.15
Number of $5,000 034 - Western Michigan 380 146 38.42% $38,153 $261.32
66
individual contributions 035 - Northern Minnesota 458 199 43.45% $31,628 $158.93
Number of $10,000 bequests 5 036 - Southern Minnesota 854 309 36.18% $94,500 $305.83
*conventions, conferences, roundups, service assemblies, and other A.A. events 037 - Mississippi 259 48 18.53% $15,308 $318.92
038 - Eastern Missouri 282 159 56.38% $50,662 $318.63
039 - Western Missouri 229 88 38.43% $30,028 $341.22
GROUPS AND OTHER ENTITIES CONTRIBUTION REPORT — 2023 040 - Montana 290 103 35.52% $42,103 $408.77
Total Average 041 - Nebraska 613 187 30.51% $55,476 $296.66
# Active # Groups % Groups Contributed
Area Group 042 - Nevada 634 168 26.50% $55,060 $327.74
Groups Contributed Contributed by a Group
Contributions for the Year 043 - New Hampshire 495 208 42.02% $41,013 $197.18
001 - Alabama/N.W. Florida 440 134 30.45% $55,017 $410.57 044 - Northern New Jersey 1,020 361 35.39% $151,087 $418.52
002 - Alaska 148 57 38.51% $16,709 $293.13 045 - Southern New Jersey 333 186 55.86% $76,420 $410.86
003 - Arizona 1,219 375 30.76% $178,560 $476.16 046 - New Mexico 313 129 41.21% $33,527 $259.90
004 - Arkansas 224 98 43.75% $25,979 $265.09 047 - Central New York 621 178 28.66% $42,589 $239.26
005 - Southern California 782 227 29.03% $117,549 $517.84 048 - Northeast New York 737 209 28.36% $49,621 $237.42
049 - Southeast New York 1,421 422 29.70% $219,476 $520.09

Total Average Total Average

# Active # Groups % Groups Contributed # Active # Groups % Groups Contributed
Area Group Area Group
Groups Contributed Contributed by a Group Groups Contributed Contributed by a Group
Contributions for the Year Contributions for the Year
050 - Western New York 305 69 22.62% $18,834 $272.95 090 - Northwest Quebec Canada 250 12 4.80% $1,268 $105.65
051 - North Carolina 1,181 438 37.09% $173,940 $397.12 091 - Saskatchewan Canada 240 77 32.08% $23,085 $299.80
052 - North Dakota 161 60 37.27% $22,998 $383.31 092 - Washington State East 474 149 31.43% $40,331 $270.68
053 - Central & Southeast Ohio 714 142 19.89% $24,636 $173.49 093 - Central California 1,043 309 29.63% $93,539 $302.71
054 - Northeast Ohio 1,325 227 17.13% $42,486 $187.16 095 - Outside the service structure 1,304 56 4.29% $29,813 $532.38
055 - Northwest Ohio 279 70 25.09% $12,982 $185.45 TOTAL GROUPS 57,222 18,105 31.64% $5,950,279 $328.65
056 - Southwest Ohio 498 203 40.76% $40,331 $198.67
057 - Oklahoma 437 132 30.21% $53,986 $408.98 OTHER ENTITIES
058 - Oregon 991 376 37.94% $128,517 $341.80 Areas and Districts $594,429
059 - Eastern Pennsylvania 1,647 584 35.46% $196,315 $336.16 Intergroups and Central Offices $260,604
060 - Western Pennsylvania 810 225 27.78% $45,031 $200.14 Other Organizations $496,004
061 - Rhode Island 239 96 40.17% $22,719 $236.65 TOTAL OTHER ENTITIES $1,351,037
062 - South Carolina 375 199 53.07% $99,855 $501.78 Grand total groups and other entities $7,301,315
063 - South Dakota 167 46 27.54% $11,706 $254.48 Average contributed by a group in a single contribution 140.09
064 - Tennessee 655 201 30.69% $63,795 $317.39
Most common amount contributed by a group in a single contribution 80.00
065 - Northeast Texas 346 150 43.35% $65,200 $434.67
066 - Northwest Texas 257 40 15.56% $10,064 $251.61
067 - Southeast Texas 712 191 26.83% $61,791 $323.51
068 - Southwest Texas 574 169 29.44% $77,961 $461.31 GROUP CONTRIBUTIONS BY DOLLAR AMOUNT
069 - Utah 383 131 34.20% $42,656 $325.62 Number % of Total Dollars % of Total
070 - Vermont 294 91 30.95% $22,806 $250.62 Less than $50 12,608 29.68% $336,673 5.66%
071 - Virginia 1,000 419 41.90% $142,446 $339.97 $50 to $100 13,862 32.63% $1,019,445 17.13%
072 - Western Washington 1,149 467 40.64% $163,379 $349.85 $100 to $150 5,175 12.18% $668,546 11.24%
073 - West Virginia 228 68 29.82% $13,062 $192.09 $150 to $200 3,409 8.03% $620,446 10.43%
074 - N
 orthern Wisconsin/
638 194 30.41% $34,437 $177.51 $200 to $300 3,500 8.24% $893,349 15.01%
Upper Peninsula Michigan
075 - Southern Wisconsin 1,006 408 40.56% $66,840 $163.82 $300 to $400 1,427 3.36% $509,249 8.56%
076 - Wyoming 87 37 42.53% $9,211 $248.94 $400 to $500 973 2.29% $451,594 7.59%
077 - Puerto Rico 97 19 19.59% $2,502 $131.67 $500 to $600 466 1.10% $261,676 4.40%
078 - Alberta /Northwest Territories $600 to $700 223 0.53% $146,251 2.46%
456 172 37.72% $59,680 $346.97
Canada $700 to $800 241 0.57% $181,305 3.05%
079 - British Columbia/Yukon Canada 549 249 45.36% $127,327 $511.35 $800 to $900 134 0.32% $115,257 1.94%
080 - Manitoba Canada 88 25 28.41% $5,934 $237.36
$900 to $1,000 121 0.28% $118,519 1.99%
081 - N
 ew Brunswick/
77 58 75.32% $20,801 $358.64 Over $1,000 337 0.79% $627,967 10.55%
Prince Edward Island Canada
082 - N
 ova Scotia/ Newfoundland/ TOTAL 42,476 100% $5,950,279 100.00%
186 58 31.18% $21,287 $367.02
Labrador Canada
083 - Eastern Ontario Canada 534 164 30.71% $68,006 $414.67
084 - Northeast Ontario Canada 127 38 29.92% $16,613 $437.19
085 - Northwest Ontario Canada 60 16 26.67% $6,818 $426.11 SUMMARY OF ALL CONTRIBUTIONS
086 - Western Ontario Canada 603 171 28.36% $76,580 $447.84 Groups 54.88% $5,950,279
087 - Southwest Quebec Canada 370 31 8.38% $12,859 $414.81 Other Entities 12.46% $1,351,037
088 - Southeast Quebec Canada 121 8 6.61% $1,482 $185.29 Individuals 32.65% $3,540,104
131

089 - Northeast Quebec Canada 187 3 1.60% $881 $293.67 GRAND TOTAL 100.00% $10,841,419
 CONTENTS

The General Service Office

2024 OPERATING BUDGET
PROFIT AND LOSS

2023
OPERATING REVENUE 2024 Budget
___________ Audited
___________ Variance
___________
Publishing
Gross Literature Sales 16,817,345 14,632,692 2,184,653
Shipping Charges 336,347 302,805 33,542
Discounts 252,260
___________ 453,695
___________ (201,435)
___________
Net Sales 16,901,432 14,481,802 2,419,630
Cost of Goods Sold 8,408,673
___________ 7,726,991
___________ 681,682
___________
Gross Profit 8,492,759 6,754,811 1,737,948

Contributions
Individuals/Groups 10,500,000 10,841,419 (341,419)
Conference Delegate Fees 204,600 163,800 40,800
Additional Conference Contributions 200,000 219,186 (19,186)
World Service Meeting Delegate Fees 90,000 0 90,000
World Service Meeting Fund 100,000 0 100,000
International Literature Fund 55,000
___________ 69,151
___________ (14,151)
___________
Total Contributions 11,149,600 11,293,556 (143,956)

TOTAL OPERATING REVENUE 19,642,359 18,048,367 1,593,992

OPERATING EXPENSE
Salary and Fringe 11,956,686 11,041,354 915,332
Professional Fees 1,821,498 1,841,626 (20,128)
Printing, Postage, and Supplies 569,768 573,446 (3,678)
Data, Automation & Website 740,663 573,593 167,070
Insurance 82,437 70,884 11,553
Facility and Equipment 1,277,450 1,223,760 53,690
Travel and Meeting 2,430,011 2,147,709 282,302
Depreciation 1,020,000 1,056,631 (36,631)
Other* 146,600
___________ 240,404
___________ (93,804)
___________

TOTAL OPERATING EXPENSE 20,045,113 18,769,407 1,275,706

OPERATING SURPLUS/(DEFICIT) (402,754) (721,040) 318,286

Other includes:
— Credit card and bank service fees
— Bad debt expense
— Interest expense
— Currency exchange loss

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 CONTENTS
2024 Budget AA Grapevine, Inc.
(For the Year Ending December 31, 2024)
Var 2024 Var 2024
2024 2023 Actual 2024 2023 Actual
Budget vs. Budget vs.
Budget Audited Budget Audited
2023 Actual 2023 Actual
GRAPEVINE LA VIÑA
Circulation Circulation
Magazine Circulation Average (all formats) 51,594 54,569 (2,975) Paid Magazine Circulation Average
6,936 6,392 544
(all formats)
App (Avg Annual Paid Subs) 10,069 843 9,226
LV App (Avg Annual Paid Subs) 900 92 808
Total Circulation 61,663 55,412 6,251
Total Circulation 7,836 6,484 1,352
Revenue Per Magazine $3.09 $2.33 0.76
Revenue Per Magazine $2.13 $2.25 ($0.12)
Revenue Per GV App $2.66 $2.89 (0.23)
Revenue Per LV App $2.50 $1.79 $0.71
REVENUE
REVENUE
Subscription Revenue
Subscription Revenue
Subscription Revenue $1,690,884 $1,266,253 424,631
Subscription Revenue $ 85,449 $ 81,590 3,859
Back issues 50,004 69,271 (19,267)
Back issues 13,000 15,803 (2,803)
GV Complete 222,000 257,241 (35,241)
LV Complete 3,238 4,704 (1,467)
GV ePub 0 87,630 (87,630)
LV ePub 0 9,379 (9,379)
GV App 321,805 29,192 292,613
LV App 13,500 330 13,170
Total Subscription Revenue $2,284,693 $1,709,587 575,106
Total Subscription Revenue 115,187 111,806 3,381
Direct Cost 1,170,125 1,128,448 41,677
Direct Cost 78,045 68,145 9,900
Gross Margin on Subscriptions $1,114,568 $581,139 533,429
Gross Margin on Subscriptions 37,142 43,661 (6,520)
Content Related Revenue
Content Related Revenue 99,880 139,050 (45,541)
Total Content Related Revenue 1,074,492 922,408 152,084
Direct Cost 18,164 40,169 (22,005)
Direct Cost 281,945 270,947 10,998
Gross Margin Content Related Revenue 81,716 98,881 (23,536)
Gross Margin Other Published Items 792,547 651,461 141,086
Total Gross Margin $118,858 $142,542 (30,056)
Total Gross Margin $1,907,115 $1,232,600 674,515
EXPENSES
EXPENSES Editorial 362,421 568,639 206,218
Editorial Cost 812,036 981,786 (169,750) Circulation And Business 287,552 313,124 25,572
Circulation And Business 1,549,177 883,663 665,514 General And Administrative 38,400 16,528 (21,872)
General And Administrative 30,000 161,885 (131,885) Total Expenses $688,373 $ 898,291 209,918
Total Expenses 2,391,213 2,027,334 363,879 La Viña — Cost of Service ($569,516) ($755,749) ($179,863)
Net Operating Income (Loss) (484,098) (794,734) 310,636 Contribution GSB $569,516 $755,749 $179,863
Non-Operating Income Net Income (Loss) 0 0 0
Interest Reserve Fund 9,600 6,760 2,840
Net Income (Loss) Grapevine ($474,498) ($787,974) $313,476
Depreciation 108,000 69,172 38,828
133

Net After Depreciation ($582,498) ($ 857,146) $274,648

 CONTENTS

■ Area Service Highlights — Panel 74 Delegates

(Only first-term delegates give Area Highlights, and, per a 2018 Conference Advisory
Action, these highlights are lightly edited and presented “in their entirety.”)

PACIFIC REGION 2023. We continue to work on a Remote Communities

Alaska, Area 2: Area 2 is all of Alaska. We are the most workbook. Two trips are already planned for 2024. Our
sparsely populated state, with about one person per Corrections chair developed working relationships with
square mile. Alaska is slightly larger than Texas, communities from Nome to Ketchikan, 1,300 miles
California, and Montana combined. We are used to trav- apart. He traveled to both of those communities in 2023.
eling by plane, boat, train, or foot to access communities Currently, the Corrections Committee is exploring estab-
as over 80% of the Area is inaccessible by car. Area 2 has lished tablet usage programs in two facilities. We hope to
eight active districts with a total of 138 groups and 1849 learn from the work already being done with Grapevine
members per the Fellowship Connection. During 2022 and tablet usage. We supported his attendance at the
and 2023 we returned to in-person assemblies and added 2022 National Corrections Conference. This is a brief
the hybrid component. We are rebuilding our volunteer glimpse into Area 2. Thank you for allowing me to be of
base. The more we can show up in person the more we service. — JoEllen L.
have folks stepping up for General Service. We have cost-
ly and lengthy travel between assembly sites. We do get Arizona, Area 03: Area 03 consists of the entire state of
the idea of literally going to any lengths. We naturally Arizona or about 114,000 square miles. We have about
have an active and robust Remote Communities 2,488 weekly meetings in approximately 1,200 groups,
Committee. Our outreach to Alaskan villages and com- which include 14 virtual and 55 Hispanic. We have 15
munities started in 2001 and we’ve visited approximate- county districts and one statewide Spanish linguistic dis-
ly 15 different places in that time, sometimes more than trict; these are divided into 4 Spanish-speaking linguistics
once. We bring A.A. literature, and visit treatment and and 54 English-speaking subdistricts to better serve the
health centers, schools, and corrections facilities. We groups. We have 4 assemblies per year, 4 Agenda
hold meetings and attend Traditional Healing events. Committee meetings, 4 administrative and also have 13
Because our travel is long and complicated, the trips coordinators who provide service to the groups and out-
serve as representatives of many of our committees. Our reach to the community. Here are some area highlights:
Statewide Call-In meeting began in 2011 and has an The hybrid assemblies that we have conducted for most
active GSR. Our alternate delegate participates in the of 2022 have provided an opportunity to see each other
monthly Inter-Area Remote Communities Working Group and the chance to have physical contact was tremendous
teleconference. Two of our members presented at the for many attendees. The hybrid-trial of two years will
Forum hosted by this working group in December of continue until the 2024 Pre-Conference Assembly at

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which time the area will decide what the next steps will include Indigenous people, LGBTQ+, Deaf and hard of
be. We celebrated the 72nd Arizona State Convention hearing, plus the military service members on the Naval
last year. Area 03 participates in the Pacific Region Base in the south and the Marine Corps Base in the north,
Anniversary of La Viña. This event helps carry the mes- bringing new people here year after year. The newest
sage to Hispanic alcoholics. Every registration includes a community we hope to reach is the Asian American com-
1- year subscription to La Viña. The area also participates munity, along with many younger generations of Hispanic
with the Hispanic Women’s Workshop. This event is held Young People through the terrific outreach by active
once a year with some Areas from the Pacific Region. YPAA Committees. Twelve Step services in our area are
The Navajo Nation is growing in AZ. — Blas A. made possible through the help of our standing commit-
tees, districts and groups through an annual budgetary
California (Northern Interior), Area 7: Area 7 is geo- process which also includes the introduction to the
graphically the largest of six areas in California, covering Conference agenda topics, to our GSRs, through well pre-
nearly 50,000 square miles. It extends from the Oregon pared workshops and visitations. Because San Diego’s
border south between the coastal mountains and the
known for beautiful climate, 70 miles of pristine beaches
Sierra Nevada mountains to about 125 miles north of the
along the Pacific Ocean and wonderful family attractions,
Los Angeles Basin and includes Sacramento, our state
many people visit San Diego each year, which allows
capital. We are composed of more than 1,852 registered
members, visitors or newcomers to be directed to any of
groups/ 931 active. We have 29 districts, of which 5 are
our meetings using our website resources, the Meeting
linguistic. We have 7 elected officers with 11 appointed
Guide or our local directories. Area 8 wants the hand of
chair positions. We have 4 Area Assemblies and 8 Area
A.A. always to be there. I love San Diego and Imperial
Committee Meetings each year. At our Pre-Conference
A.A. — Richard O.
Assembly, every GSR has the opportunity to share that
person’s group conscience at the microphone, a spiritual California (Mid-Southern), Area 9: Spanning across 4
experience vital to our Conference process. We also con- counties, and sandwiched between Areas 05 and 08,
duct an area inventory at an assembly every other year, Area 09 includes Catalina Island off the Pacific Coast,
and we hold area workshops for PI/CPC, Grapevine, La portions of South Los Angeles, down the oceanfront
Viña, BTG and Conference Agenda items. On this journey from Manhattan Beach to San Clemente to the San
of “YES” it’s been the people who I have had the oppor- Diego County border, reaching northeast to Barstow,
tunity to serve with and have gotten to know through past Palm Springs and Coachella Valley to Blythe on the
Alcoholics Anonymous that has been the largest gift of Colorado River. As one of six areas in California, we are
my sobriety. The relationships with each of our area also one of the largest in terms of membership, with
GSRs, DCMs, appointed chairs and area officers have over 65,000 members attending over 3,389 groups, 41
provided this alcoholic an amazing opportunity for
being virtual. As an official hybrid/bilingual area, we are
growth. Last, but not least, working with our past dele-
in our adolescent period, facing new challenges, from
gates who continue to support the area and share their
economics to logistics. We play the hand we are dealt,
experiences has been extremely beneficial to me and
adapting and striving to keep up with the times. Our
countless others. Our groups continue to support the
trusted servants continue to evolve under our present
Third Legacy of Alcoholics Anonymous with generous
means of communication, using the area website as a
contributions of their time and money, precisely the way
hub for all information. We meet as an Area 12 times a
Bill and Bob envisioned. For more about Area 7, please
year, holding three Area service assemblies, six Area
visit our website at cnia.org. — Matthew L.
service committee meetings and three special events
California (San Diego/Imperial), Area 08: Alcoholics which are: a two-day Mock Pre-Conference, a Serv-a-
Anonymous in Area 08 San Diego/Imperial is located on thon where we have fun in the name of service, and our
the southern end of California, which covers a wide geo- FORO where we celebrate our Spanish Districts’ A.A.
graphical area, 8,500 square miles within two counties. history. Our committees remain active and hardwork-
From the ocean to the desert, from the mountains to the ing, enabling every alcoholic who seeks a solution to find
Mexico border, we have an amazing diversity of mem- one, from Bridging the Gap, to sharing the message of
bership in over a thousand groups and A.A. meetings, A.A. in high-schools and colleges. We want to ensure no
carrying the message with in-person meetings, virtual or barrier gets in the way of our purpose. Because our
hybrid, by using the technological innovation available. trusted servants are a mix of all backgrounds and
We stay connected with our 23 districts and 14 standing nationalities, the diversity continues to improve collabo-
committees on a monthly basis where the love for A.A. rations, bringing pamphlets to life through our 19 stand-
flows in and out of our conversations during the five Area ing committees, 14 central offices (plus six Hispanic
Assemblies each year. Area 8 is so diverse we’re com- offices), and 42 Hospitals and Institutions (H&I)
pelled to reach out to all the cultures and language groups Committees. This includes the local treatment centers,
represented in San Diego and Imperial Counties. Area 8 sober living houses and the state operated Firecamps.
continues to do its part in connecting with remote com- Since 1958 we have been preserving history and creat-
munities that are under-represented. These communities ing it. We are Area 09! — Alexandra W.

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Idaho, Area 18: Idaho is largely a rural area of about which are Spanish speaking. Our Spanish-speaking
62,000 square miles that includes the entire southern groups participate in area assemblies and quarterlies and
portion of Idaho and a small section of eastern Oregon are an invaluable resource in carrying the message of
along with a sliver of northern Nevada. We currently recovery to Spanish-speaking and English-speaking suf-
have 11 active districts with over 230 listed groups, some fering alcoholics in our communities. Area 92 holds 2
being virtual and Spanish-speaking. Idaho is small Assemblies and 2 quarterly meetings per year. Our
enough in numbers to allow anyone interested in General standing committees support the districts in their 12th
Service to attend our Area Committee Meetings where Step work. Area 92 has a diverse population, there are
business is discussed, but no actions are taken. Area 18 several Native American tribes in Eastern Washington,
meets five times a year, three of them being Area northern Idaho and Montana. We have a large Hispanic
Committee Meetings and two full body Assemblies, one population as well as other ethnic communities scattered
in the fall and one in the spring respectively. We are across the area. We are hosting the Pacific Northwest
unique in that we have a convention in conjunction with Conference in Wenatchee, Washington on June 21-23,
our full body Assemblies. After much loving discussion, 2024. This is the oldest running conference in A.A. histo-
Area 18 has elected to continue with hybrid in-person ry, and we will also celebrate 30 years as an area this fall
and online Assemblies and Area Committee Meetings. at our October Assembly. After PRAASA and the loss of
We also added a Tech position to the Area Committee one of our Hispanic members, Polo E., we have found
that will allow us the opportunity to improve accessibility strength and comfort in the Fellowship of Alcoholics
which came in handy for our January ACM when a bliz- Anonymous, from the many new friends and the old. I
zard covered our Area. We were still able to meet and be cannot express the gratitude and love that we all felt
safe to travel another day! Fun Fact, Idaho has more during the time of loss. I would like to thank each and
cattle than people. But do not let that fool you, we may every one of you for your support, the help in keeping
be few when it comes to numbers, but we are Mighty everyone updated, the many calls, emails and the text
when it comes to Love and Service. The small member- messages we received were overwhelming and very
ship has given us a special bond, and the gift of unity. I much appreciated. — Lisa G.
am honored to be given the duty and the responsibility
of serving the best area ever! If no one today has told you SOUTHWEST REGION
they love you, Area 18 loves you! — Kade W. Kansas, Area 25: Area 25 encompasses the entire state
of Kansas — just over 82,000 square miles. Kansas is a
Oregon, Area 58: We have approximately 975 active largely rural state that has 28 districts — three of which
groups with 37 districts, three of which are Spanish are linguistic districts for our Spanish-speaking members.
speaking. Our ASL are very strong in District 16 and in the There are 312 active registered groups and two online
Portland Metro Area there are 15 ASL meetings offered groups. Although we have some “dark” districts, the
per week and 1 hybrid speaker meeting with ASL. We majority of our districts are active at the area level. We
also have one virtual district that is very active. Throughout currently conduct two voting assemblies in January and
the year, we hold four quarterly/service assemblies in July and have two Area Committee Meetings in April and
rotating locations that are hosted by any one of our dis- October. Only in Kansas would we have our assemblies
tricts. Area 58 is a GSR-driven Area, which nicely demon- when the temperatures are either approaching zero or
strates our “upside-down triangle.” Our virtual assembly nearing 100 degrees. Our Area 25 State Conference is
attendance has been ongoing with approximately 100 held each September and many of our Area Committee
members and 150 in-person members. We are fortunate members get their feet wet in service by serving on that
to enjoy outstanding leadership from our GSRs, DCMs, committee. At the April Committee meeting we host our
service committee members, Area officers, and our col- Annual Mock Conference to get input from the Area on
lective past Area servants. Our Area actively participates proposed agenda items. This year we will do our first
in PNC (Pacific Northwest Conference) and PRAASA Virtual Town Hall meeting prior to the Mock Conference
(Pacific Regional Alcoholics Anonymous Service to facilitate even more discussion from the area on key
Assembly). We also participate in the Pacific Regional issues. Like many areas — we often have ad hoc commit-
Forum and our 4 officers are fully funded. Many of our tees to address things like the area budget, guideline
DCMs and GSRs are very involved in all these events; and changes, and area meeting locations. Our dedicated past
as years go by, I love that our attendance has increased. delegates often serve on these committees. We are very
I am truly honored to be a small part of our Oregon Area fortunate to have several very active past delegates in our
58 family. — Penny H. region. Our goal at the Area level is increased transparen-
cy and to provide information from the General Service
Washington (East), Area 92: Area 92 stretches across Office in a timely manner. It is a pleasure to serve Area
four States and two time zones. From the eastern slopes 25 as its Panel 74 delegate. — Bridget B.
of the Cascade Mountain Range across Eastern
Washington down to the southern border of Oregon, New Mexico, Area 46: This Area covers the entire state
then we head north to the Idaho panhandle and to the of New Mexico. The fifth largest state in the U.S. in terms
northwest corner of Montana. We have 26 districts, 4 of of land area, over 121,600 square miles, we rank 46th in

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population density with approximately 2.1 million peo-

ple. Beyond our five major cities, the remainder of our
state is made up of “remote communities.” Area 46 has ■ Statistics on Area Delegates
15 standing committees, 17 geographic districts, and (93 RESPONSES)
two linguistic districts. We have approximately 6,800 Years
members. We are enjoying some great success in finding Average Age 58
ways to reach our remote communities. The area made Oldest 76
a significant financial investment in hybrid event produc-
Youngest 28
tion for area assemblies. Our assembly meets three
times per year and is now fully hybrid, including six Average Length of Sobriety 23
breakout rooms for committee meetings during our Longest Sobriety 49
assembly. This past year we split our Technology Shortest Sobriety 9
Committee into two standing committees: Tech
Average Length of Service 18
Committee and Hybrid-Production Committee. The
adoption of hybrid events has increased participation Longest Service 46
among groups previously unable to attend assemblies Shortest Service 7
due to financial constraints. Additionally, it has encour-
aged active participation from members not currently Also statistically speaking, it was noted by one delegate
holding service positions. The hosting of our Area 46 from the Western U.S. that there were more cows than
Service Forum in 2023 by Linguistic District 17 also A.A. members in his state. Not to be outdone, anoth-
marked an important milestone. This fully hybrid event er delegate noted that there were more deer than A.A.
featured real-time (alternating) translation, fostering members where he is from. And, finally, a Canadian del-
effective communication between English and Spanish egate added that there were more trees than A.A. mem-
speakers. As a result, there has been a marked increase bers where she is from.
in Spanish-speaking members’ engagement in general
service within Area 46. Our trusted servants are dedicat-
ed to carrying our experience, strength and hope to the tinuity, passion, unity and most strongly we try to persist
many alcoholics in Area 46 who so desperately need our in carrying the message to the still-suffering alcoholic. We
solution. — Kerri K. persevere in having our Primary Purpose foremost in our
hearts, minds, and conscience. — Linda W.
Texas (Northwest), Area 66: NWTA 66 incorporates
around 96,000 square miles. We are big, wide and spa- Texas (Southwest), Area 68: This Area successfully oper-
cious, stretching from the top of the Panhandle near ates without a budget as the membership is the prudent
Perryton, running along the southwest border into El reserve. The Area is comprised of 34 districts, eight of
Paso, over to the Big Bend area near Alpine and rounding which are Spanish speaking, totaling approximately 548
through into San Angelo. We have 9 districts which cover groups. Area 68 meets quarterly. Any district can host an
many rural communities in this wide-open space, includ- area assembly. The January and July meetings are held in
ing Spanish-speaking groups. We have around 600 groups conjunction with Area service workshops. We have nine
registered in-person, hybrid and online bringing growth standing committees: Archives, Bilingual, Correctional
to our Area. Our area officers are chair, alternate chair, Facilities, combined Public Information and Cooperation
secretary, alternate secretary, treasurer, alternate treasur- with the Professional Community (PI/CPC), Newsletter,
er, and the alternate delegate. We have committee chairs Grapevine/La Viña, and Treatment, Accessibilities and
in Archives, Bilingual, Cooperation with the Professional Technology. All our area events and service material are
Community, Corrections, Finance, Grapevine/La Viña, translated into Spanish. The April Area business meeting
Literature, Newsletter, Public Information, Treatment and is held in conjunction with the pre-Conference. The dele-
Website. We hold three full Area Assemblies yearly in gate reviews the agenda for the upcoming Conference
March, July and November. In odd-numbered years in held in New York. The voice of local A.A. is heard through
January we hold a Mini Forum where the area chair GSRs and DCMs so the delegate may carry the informed
appoints our committee chairs, also the new officer elec- conscience. The October business meeting is held in con-
tions are always held in November in San Angelo. We junction with the Area conference. Elections, held every
have fun, camaraderie, and a deep sense of purpose. two years, are conducted in accordance with the Third
Growth at Area Assembly with our Spanish-speaking com- Legacy Procedure outlined in the Service Manual. We
munities has brought progress and strength to bring us also conduct an annual CFC and PI/CPC Conference.
together in harmony to carry the message. As part of the These events are also hosted by volunteer districts. Area
Southwest Region, Area 66 was honored and excited to 68 is unified and is well versed in A.A.’s Traditions and
host the Southwest Regional Forum in El Paso in 2023. Concepts. As a result, many groups in Area 68 are con-
NWTA’s service structure complements the A.A. Service cerned about what they hear about proposed changes in
Manual in items that are particular to our area’s service the writings of our co-founder, our book, and thus the
structure. The ultimate goal of NWTA 66 consists of con- basic A.A. program. The Area looks forward to the reso-

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lution of said proposals. The Texas A.A. State Convention Information Committee is actively distributing contact
rotates around the state and two locations fall in Area 68, cards with links for more information about A.A., our
Austin and San Antonio. Last year there were more than hotline, and the Meeting Guide app. Corrections is deeply
1,400 in attendance. There was no fundraising utilized. involved in supporting local efforts to bring meetings
— Kenneth (KC) H. inside correctional facilities and maintaining close com-
munication with state corrections staff. The Grapevine
WEST CENTRAL REGION Committee is crafting a flyer showcasing the array of
Minnesota (Northern), Area 35: This Area extends from available products, the new app, and the podcast.
Lake Superior on the east, Lake of the Woods on the Meanwhile, the Literature Committee is continuing a
north, North Dakota/Minnesota on the west, and to St. pamphlet challenge from the last rotation. We are evalu-
Cloud in the south. There are parts of Area 35 that are ating how we function with an ad hoc committee leading
remote and isolated, which requires A.A. members to the charge. We proudly hosted the 2023 West Central
drive a distance to attend an A.A. meeting. Currently we Region A.A. Service Conference and eagerly anticipate
have 448 active A.A. groups and two virtual A.A. welcoming the region once again for the 2025 West
groups. Our area has four zones with 18 districts, three Central Regional Forum in Omaha. Next time, don’t just
districts without representation. Area business is con- fly over, join us! We’d love to welcome you at any of our
ducted at our Area Committee Meetings held four times groups for a meeting. Mark your calendars for the 65th
a year in Aitkin. Twice a year we hold Area Assemblies, Area 41 Reunion in June and start planning your trip to
rotating between the four zones and held over a week- Omaha in 2025 for the Regional Forum. It’s my sincere
end. Our Area 35 Workshop is in January. GSR Orientation honor and privilege to serve our Fellowship and the won-
Sessions are held at the beginning of a new rotation. derful members of Area 41. — Nick K.
Each assembly has sharing sessions for the GSRs and
DCMs. It is a great way to meet others in the same posi- South Dakota, Area 63: Area 63 encompasses the State
tion, develop contacts and new friendships in A.A. We of South Dakota. We have 14 districts, 11 of them are
recently started opening our Area Archives on the active in area functions. We have added one online
third Sunday of each month in Aitkin. At our Area assembly to our area service structure, giving us three
Assembly, displays of Area Archives, Literature and assemblies and two area conferences. The spring confer-
Grapevine/La Viña are set up. Folks can look at and learn ence is devoted to preparing the delegate for the General
more about the history of A.A. and literature is available Service Conference. The fall conference has been changed
to the area’s groups. We have active Public Information to help draw new people to service. There we have panel
and Cooperation with Professional Community presentations and breakout sessions along with the tradi-
Committees. Our Corrections Committee works in coop- tional evening speakers and the long-timer meetings.
eration with Area 36 to set up a booth at the State Last year we held the fall conference in Hot Springs, a
Correctional Transition Fairs. Persons in custody are town of approximately 3,500 people on the southwest
introduced to the Temporary Contact Program. Our corner of the state. The A.A. community supported the
Treatment Committee has been working on Bridging the undertaking with great attendance and fellowship. The
Gap. Our webmaster keeps our website up to date. Our drive from Watertown to Hot Springs is 450 miles and
sound person ensures all audio is working. Group people showed up to support the efforts to carry the mes-
Records keeps group information current. Northern Light sage of A.A. and support the services Area 63 provides to
is our informational and interesting newsletter. Yes, we help the groups across the state. They broke even on the
have a lot of busy A.A.s who volunteer their time behind cost and that’s always good for the spirits. Our area uses
the scenes to make A.A. service happen. Because of their the committee system, closely resembling the GSC. The
service and commitment, A.A. is alive and well in challenges of the system are ongoing. We have a Web
Area 35. — Diane R. Committee and are again revising our website. A remote
communities and accessibilities committee is trying to
Nebraska, Area 41: Warm greetings from the captivating provide support to isolated populations in a rural state.
Cornhusker State! Area 41 is comprised of 30 districts, There are nine Native American Reservations, small rural
including a Spanish linguistic district and 604 listed communities and villages scattered throughout the area.
groups, with 11 of them being virtual. Despite a one-way We have a never-ending supply of opportunities for our
trip from end to end being over 450 miles, we have area to bring the A.A. message to the still-suffering alco-
noticed a remarkable increase in participation at our holic from different cultures, lifestyles and surroundings.
Assemblies over the last two quarters. We hold quarterly — Dave D.
assemblies and an annual conference affectionately
known as our Area Reunion. Each assembly is a weekend Wyoming, Area 76: I have the great pleasure of talking
filled with committee work, workshops, sharing sessions, about a couple things I love: Wyoming and A.A. You see
and an Area business meeting. Among our ongoing ini- I was born, raised and got sober in the Cowboy State. In
tiatives, the Accessibilities, Accommodations, Treatment, fact, I’m a 4th generation Wyoming Cowboy, although I
and Remote Communities Committee is reinvigorating may not look like a typical cowboy. Wyoming has tall
our Area’s Bridging the Gap service. The Public mountains, fertile valleys and high plains. There’s 97,813

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square miles of area and only 587,057 people. Plenty of British Columbia. The little town of Maidstone,
room to roam and lots of freedom. But for A.A. this poses Saskatchewan, also calls Area 78 home. Our spring and
a problem. People sometimes have to travel miles just to fall Assemblies rotate through the three major centers of
get to a meeting. Lots of small groups where only 1, 2 or Calgary, Red Deer and Edmonton. Our ACMs are bid on
maybe 3 people show up on a regular basis. I met a fel- throughout the Area so in January we were in Stettler,
low in A.A. who lives in the Saratoga area and has District 19 and in May we will be going to Yellowknife,
become my friend. At one time he worked in Cheyenne District 35. In this manner we share our love and light for
during the week about 150 miles apart. On Wednesdays service, fostering leadership and unity. The Panel 74
he would drive all the way back to Saratoga to make sure Committee is an enthusiastic bunch, dedicated to the
the A.A. room was open. Most often though, he would sit structure that protects our solution! We have a full slate
and read his Big Book by himself. But the hand of A.A. of table officers and committee chairs including a
was there every Wednesday and Friday evenings. So, as Remote Community chair to help us with the challenges
you can see, we have a very dedicated Fellowship in of our diverse communities. As a new delegate, there
Wyoming. Area 76 has 2 assemblies and 1 convention was much talk around the changing of our founders’
each year and monthly area business meetings virtually. writings creating disunity. Instead, as we listened to each
We have 12 districts and 95 groups. There are 5 correc- other respectfully, we were stretched and have evolved
tional facilities in Area 76, and 8 inpatient treatment to find the path to unity through communication. We are
facilities, 2 of which are V.A. As a Fellowship we do growing to find the best version of ourselves. Remarkable.
everything we can to help these facilities. In 2025 we will There is a quote from Dr. Bob in A.A. Comes of Age that
host the West Central Regional Alcoholics Anonymous speaks to me of our great purpose here, “I was just
Service Conference in Casper, February 28 - March 2nd. another alcoholic trying to get along under the grace of
Within our borders we have Yellowstone and Grand God. Forget me but go you and do likewise. Add your
Teton National Parks. So, if you’re traveling through, own link to our chain. With God’s help forge that chain
click the Meeting Guide App and join us on the road to a well and truly.” — Karen C.
happy destiny. — Steve M.
Manitoba, Area 80: My name is Lawrence, I am an alco-
WESTERN CANADA holic, and very grateful Alice G. was able to step up and
Alberta/NWT, Area 78: Ours is an incredibly beautiful be at the Conference in my absence. Thank you, Alice!
mix of mountains, prairies, boreal forests and tundra. (Timer starts here.) Generally, Area 80 is doing well and
We have lakes and rivers and a wide-open sun-filled sky. gaining strength after the pandemic. Area 80 consists of
I learned early that a forest is healthiest when you can 14 districts, with 100 active A.A. groups, 5% of which are
see the diversity in its trees, I like to think Area 78 is virtual groups. We are grateful for the dedication of these
wealthy this way. Diversity breeds inclusivity, tolerance groups to survive and thrive as we enter 2024. Every
and acceptance. Area 78 stretches all over the province Area position was filled after the P74 January Assembly,
of Alberta, the Northwest Territories, Western Nunavut, and all by willing and capable members. For us, that’s
as well as the northeastern and southeastern sections of worth applauding! Area 80 took intentional notice and

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simultaneous translation at Area business events. These

events include 2 Assemblies, a pre-Conference sharing
session, a mid-summer sharing session and monthly vir-
tual meetings between the in-person ones. To rotate
in-person events throughout the area, proposals are sub-
mitted by districts to host these. The membership then
votes on the submitted proposals. We participate in
Canada East Regional Alcoholics Anonymous Service
Assembly (or CERAASA) as a valuable resource in keep-
ing informed of issues affecting the Fellowship. Virtual
communication was essential throughout recent health
quarantines and continues even as in-person events
resume. There exists a variation in membership response
and ability to access the many communication platforms
available. Members participate in meetings at correction-
al and treatment facilities. A Central Office located on
Prince Edward Island maintains a stock of A.A. Conference
Approved Literature along with a telephone answering
service. The Area 81 website posts updated lists of events
and meetings. This is a brief overview of attempts to
carry the message. — Marietta M.

Ontario (Northeast), Area 84: We cover approximately

300,000 sq. km or 186,500 miles. Over that large dis-
tance we have a small population of about 515,00 peo-
ple. Our Area is divided into six districts consisting of
126 groups, with no registered virtual groups yet,
although there are several virtual meetings being hosted.
action at the close of Panel 73 on declining district par- We hold 3 virtual Area meetings a year on the first
ticipation in area assemblies. This was done by re-focus- Saturday in February, June and November for cost-saving
ing our Conference service committees’ mandate, to measures as our Area is spread out over such a distance.
walk closely and directly with districts, and encourage We also hold 4 virtual sharing sessions to get an Area
service work to be district oriented. Area 80 is not alone conscience for the delegate to bring to the General
in recognizing, the ever-present need for more participa- Service Conference in New York. This September we will
tion in service opportunities. We strive to encourage be having our first in-person Assembly since COVID, to
visionaries from within our Area, and gain experience be held in North Bay. Our assembly is held on a rotation
offered to us from other Areas at the 74th GSC. Our basis between our six districts. We are seeing an increase
Conference Committee Chairs have recently banded in our Area for in-person events, which the membership
together to plan a Volunteer Drive, which will be held on seems to be very hungry for, which shows in the num-
April 20th, in a hybrid setting. We applaud this self-gen- bers turning out to events. Now we need to try and get
erated energy, enthusiasm, and leadership. For context, some of that same enthusiasm for service functions. We
Area 80 Manitoba is the geographical center of Canada face the challenge of having Area members turn out to
(and covers 4 times the area of the State of Florida) and these meetings as well as our sharing sessions, but we do
has a population of 1/16th of Florida. The context here try to carry the message forward the best we can.
shows how real “Remote Communities” is for us! Thank Although we are small in numbers, we try to keep the
you for this opportunity to share, and for your generous chain of information going between all levels of service.
fellowship! — Lawrence P. From our members through to the General Service
Board. It is a privilege to serve Area 84 as delegate. —
EASTERN CANADA
Alan W.
New Brunswick/Prince Edward Island, Area 81: Located
on the east coast of Canada and covering the provinces Ontario (Western), Area 86: Area 86 currently serves
of New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island. New the Western Region of Ontario (a Province in Canada)
Brunswick borders the state of Maine and is connected to population of @12,000 alcoholics through the aegis of
Prince Edward Island by Confederation Bridge. We are a 975 groups, of which 574 groups are active with 19 being
bilingual area with French- and English-speaking mem- virtual and the balance of the groups in various stages of
bers. Efforts are being made at the area level to have identification. As a reference point, we are north of
communications in both languages, though more work Buffalo New York and west of Toronto, Ontario.
needs to be done. A Translation Chair is one of our offi- Specifically, we are geographically situated between
cer positions and a motion was recently passed to have three of the five Great Lakes: Huron, Erie, and Ontario,

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throwing in Georgian Bay as bordering bodies of water who are committed to A.A. service. Our Area 87 Service
within our area. Every year we host a pre-Conference Office (ASO) has four special workers and a well-stocked
Spring assembly and a Fall assembly. In the odd year at literature counter. The ASO performs many functions
the Fall assembly, we elect our 5 area officers. In even and remains open seven days a week. Our French-
numbered years we have 3 area committee meetings language magazine La Vigne 2.0 is published on a
and in odd years we hold 4 area committee meetings bi-monthly basis in collaboration with the four Québec
with the December one primarily for sub-committee Areas, and like AA Grapevine, helps carry the A.A. mes-
elections (9 positions). While the one of the great won- sage throughout the Francophone world. The use of vir-
ders of the world is Niagara Falls, the second one is Area tual platforms to hold our meetings during COVID has
86. If you are standing in Area 86 you will have access to enabled us to expand our means of reaching the still-suf-
the many entry points to access our friendly neighbors to fering alcoholic wherever he or she may be. This new
the south with names of bridges like Blue Water, technology has also enabled us to create sustained links
Ambassador, Rainbow, and Peace. We participate in with the Conference as a whole and everywhere else
CERAASA (Canadian Eastern Alcoholics Anonymous within the world of A.A. It’s imperative that our spiritual
Service Assembly) which rotates every two years within principles continue their progress through the trials and
all areas of the Eastern Canadian Region. We have a new tribulations of life as the clear communication of our
initiative, the ECDO (Eastern Canada Delegates’ message — that recovery from alcoholism is possible
Orientation) which is a virtual Conference orientation through the Twelve Steps — becomes equally impera-
meeting replacing the Ontario and Quebec Delegate tive. — André D.
Meeting which now includes participation from all areas
Québec (Northwest), Area 90: Area 90 began operations
in the Eastern Canadian region. We also share a land-
in August 1976 and covers a vast territory in northwest-
based border with our friends in Area 83 and Area 84 to
ern Québec. This territory stretches from the city of
our NNE and we are one bridge crossing from our friends
Ottawa in the west to Joliette in the east, a distance of
in Area 50 (Buffalo NY) and Area 33 (Detroit MI).
over 244 kilometers; and from the northern tip of
Welcome to Area 86, the honor and pleasure is to serve.
Montreal in the south to Kuujjuaq, in Nunavut, the north-
— Dan D.
ernmost point, a distance of over 1,445 kilometers. We
Québec (Southwest), Area 87: We are the smallest of have a total of 374 groups in 25 districts. Although this
the four A.A. areas in the province of Québec, yet number is difficult to establish, we estimate that the Area
accounts for 38% of the province’s total membership. has close to 8,000 members. We have more than 20
Largely urban, our area is historically trilingual — French, groups in correctional facilities and a dozen in treatment
English and Spanish. It currently includes 25 districts: 18 centers. Mostly French speaking, we are a diverse, multi-
French-speaking districts, 6 English-speaking districts cultural and multilingual region. We have seven area
and one Spanish-speaking linguistic district. With 387 officers, six standing committees (Correctional,
Treatment, Accessibility and remote communities,
registered groups as of December 2023, it’s possible for
Publications, Public Information, La Vigne AA — similar
anyone to attend 583 meetings a week, mainly in three
to Grapevine) and the regional service newsletter
languages and a variety of formats. There are also groups
L’Héritage. In addition, there are two working groups,
in Russian, Farsi (Iranian) and Langue des Signes du
Archives and Digital Communications and Technologies
Québec - LSQ. Our treatment and detention center com-
(DTC). Our service calendar includes six area meetings,
mittees also offer numerous meetings in institutions. The
presence of Alcoholics Anonymous in our area is vibrant
and alive. And that’s not counting the work of our mem-
bers who put our Twelfth Step into practice in their fam-
ilies and communities. We can also count on the unfailing
work of our thirteen service committees in carrying our
message, including Public Information, Correctional,
Treatment, Literature, CPC, Technical Committee and
Helpline, to name but a few. Our area also has all the
tools it needs to carry the message of Alcoholics
Anonymous. Our trusted servants and sponsors are all
ready and willing to support our members. We encour-
age our members to take initiatives in pursuing our pri-
mary purpose. Many other activities, including the
annual Area Convention, the bilingual Big Book
Conference (currently on hiatus), our District Conventions,
our A.A. workshops provided by our Groups Services
Committee, our super working group on service sponsor-
ship set up in 2021, are there to help spread the good
word about our Fellowship and support our members

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two general assemblies, a welcome assembly for new we had our first virtual assemblies. Our assemblies have
service members or all A.A. members who are interested been conducted in a hybrid format since February 2022.
in service, as well as a pre-Conference service day and a We added a virtual assembly standing committee and
day presenting 12 Concepts. Several other activities now have 16 committees serving alcoholics in southern
added to this calendar, such as one-day information ses- Indiana in addition to our state convention committee.
sions (on GSR, DCM, finances, etc.) and exchange of Area 23 hosts the Indiana State Convention in even years
views with committees. All these activities keep our and so held this years’ state convention on March 15-17
members in the spirit of service while stimulating their at Indiana University’s Memorial Union in Bloomington.
interest. We’ve managed to adapt to the new reality, and We have four assemblies a year in February, May, August
many of our meetings are held either in person, by vid- and October, the last in conjunction with our annual ser-
eoconference or even in hybrid format. Area 90 is vice weekend, which has for many years been held at
vibrant and healthy, thanks to service. — Deb L. Clifty Falls State Park. At our preconference weekend in
April, GSRs and DCMs bring their groups and districts’
EAST CENTRAL REGION consciences on eight General Service Conference agenda
Illinois (Northern), Area 20: Area 20 includes all of items to share with the delegate. DCMs chair committees
Northern Illinois, except for Chicago, and does include to discuss agenda items and report to the full body in the
many of the suburbs surrounding the metropolitan area, afternoon, imitating the Conference process. We look
including such large cities as Aurora, Joliet, Rockford, forward to hosting next year’s East Central Regional
Elgin, and Naperville (where I live). We have an interest- Forum and Alcoholics Anonymous’s International
ing blend of rural towns and suburban cities in Area 20. Convention in 2035. The trusted servants of Area 23
About two-thirds of our 26 districts are comprised of know that Service is the Secret! — Paul L.
suburban communities, three of those being Spanish-
speaking linguistic districts. The remainder of our dis- Michigan (Western), Area 34: This Area is all or part of
tricts are made up of essentially rural communities, the 36 counties in west Michigan. The southernmost
much like those found in Southern and Central Illinois as boundary borders Indiana, northward to Canada at Sault
well as our neighbors in Iowa and Wisconsin. In total, Ste. Marie. Approximately 22,000 square miles of vary-
Area 20 has 1,148 groups, of which 44 are virtual only. ing population density. We touch upon three of the Great
Our area holds 4 assemblies per year and 4 area commit- Lakes, enjoying 650 miles, or so, of beautiful beaches. No
tee meetings, all of which offer a hybrid virtual participa- salt, no sharks! The almost 700 active groups are served
tion option. Additionally, our Area holds a Spring by three central offices and 18 districts, one a linguistic
Conference, typically in conjunction with our Spring (Spanish), and 10 standing committees. Our three main
Assembly, and a Big Book Conference in the fall. We also delegate Areas (32, 33, 34) meet quarterly to coordinate
host the Illinois State Conference every third year in a A.A. service. Our young people continue to inspire hope
rotating partnership with Areas 19 and 21. Area 20 has and prove we are not glum! We also alternate hosting
no intergroups or central offices, but many districts have events such as our Mock Conference and State
their own answering services and operate their own dis- Conventions. This year our State Convention will be com-
trict websites. Therefore, our service committee work is bined with the East Central Regional Conference in
done primarily at the district level with the support of our Grand Rapids. We’re learning to incorporate technolo-
corresponding Area Service Committees. This assistance gies better. We now have a tech committee that helps all
from the Area includes helping the districts with work- our committees utilize videoconferencing and have
shops, coordinated literature purchases, technology developed a new website — area34aa.org. All of our
assistance, and facilitating the sharing of experiences assemblies have been hybrid since July 2020, and our
between the districts. Thanks for the opportunity to capabilities have improved dramatically since then. We
share and I look forward to serving with you as a Panel always encourage members to participate in sobriety
74 delegate. — Erik L. enhancement opportunities throughout our Fellowship.
It’s a humbling honor to play a part of sharing our spiri-
Southern Indiana, Area 23: Area 23 is the southern half tual gifts. — Ed B.
of Indiana, from just north of Indianapolis to the Ohio
River. We have approximately 12,000 members and Ohio (Northwest & Southeast Michigan), Area 55: Area
over 700 groups, six of which are Spanish speaking 55 makes up Northwest Ohio and a small part of
groups. Interestingly, the Spanish groups in Indianapolis Southeast Michigan. We have 453 meetings, 13 districts
tend to meet several times a week, and one meets ten after a recent redistricting, The Toledo Mudhens and
times a week. Area 23 is made up of 22 districts, one of Tony Packo’s. Our area’s geography includes Lake Erie,
which is a linguistic district for Spanish speakers. We the Maumee River, Islands & Caverns. Originally a
have five intergroups or central offices, one of which mucky swamp, we are still known as The Great Black
serves Hispanic groups. We have provided ASL interpret- Swamp, that, once drained, left Rich, Flat & Expansive
ers and translation equipment for our Spanish-speaking Farmlands. In October, Ohio Young People in A.A.
members at our assemblies and our state convention. I (NOCYPAA) hosted their Ohio State Convention in Area
was honored to serve as Area 23’s “COVID chair,” when 55 which was an enormous success, and might I add, a

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ton of fun! There are a group of folks making travel plans point, with the City of Celina and the Grand Lake Saint
to go to the next International Convention. We were sad Marys at the northern boundary. In our area, we have
when Detroit was cancelled due to COVID. It would have two vibrant Intergroups with Central Offices, one in
been in our region, but Indianapolis is also in the East Dayton and one in Cincinnati. Ongoing efforts to coordi-
Central Region! We still struggle to light up all the dis- nate and collaborate with them allow us to better reach
tricts and fill service positions, however, our current and serve the still-suffering alcoholic. Since we have
DCMC has a plan that would rely more on the DCMs so redundant committees when we work together, we can
the General Service Assembly could meet quarterly. We double and triple the effectiveness of our efforts. Our
hold GSAs each month and handle some matters that website has made big leaps in the past couple of years; a
could be better managed at the district level. Area 55 has Google Workspace has been established. As a result,
8 active committees. Many alcoholics first hear A.A.’s communication has improved. The efforts of our trusted
message of hope thanks to the work of the volunteers on servants from Panel 72 have far-reaching effects on our
these committees. An ad hoc committee has been A.A. community. Panel 74 will continue and enhance
appointed to update our Area Guidelines. Area 55 is ser- those efforts. — Warren G.
viced by 5 Intergroups. Our new Panel of officers is ded-
icated to inclusion and unity, through open, continuous, Wisconsin (Northern / Upper Peninsula of Michigan),
and consistent communication. Ohio is split into 4 Areas. Area 74: From the shadows of the frozen tundra in
Each Area holds a Mini Conference in March, prior to the Green Bay, to the shores of Lake Superior and Lake
General Service Conference, and all 4 delegates and their Michigan, to the Red Cliff Indian Reservation. And the
Alternates travel and take part in the other 3. Area 55’s Deep woods of the Upper Peninsula to the Eastern Edge
Mini Conference is always the first weekend in March, of the mighty Mississippi. From the land of the Hodags
and all are welcome. — Kimbrough P. in Rhinelander to the Clear Waters of my hometown Eau
Claire — alcoholics are recovering. With 24 districts
Ohio (Southwest), Area 56: Our Area is seeing a growth Area 74 is carrying the message to treatment centers,
in participation. We have monthly committee meetings county jails, and prisons. Area 74 is letting the public
and quarterly assemblies. More of our districts now have know we exist through PSAs, billboards and booths at
DCMs. Interest and activity are on the upswing. Many of county fairs. We are a vibrant Area with enthusiasm.
our committees now have several active members, Even with our enthusiasm and willingness to serve we
instead of only consisting of the committee chair. Some know there is more work to be done. Those of us who
of our districts have established regular, annual events, live in large cities, small towns, and farming communi-
such as Share-A-Day and the Wilson-Smith Picnic. Other ties are overcome by the reflection that close by hun-
districts are working to establish yearly workshops or dreds are dropping into oblivion every day. Many could
roundtables on “Sponsorship” and “Making a recover if they had the opportunity we have enjoyed.
Commitment.” Repeat, yearly events, focused on import- That is why we are here, an honor and a privilege to
ant topics, make sense for the health of our Fellowship. serve with all of you to do our small part to try to ensure
After all, A.A. is a program of reminders. Area 56 is locat- others have the opportunity we have enjoyed. And as we
ed in Southwest Ohio, bordered by the Ohio River on the move forward this week to do the work and our passions
south and the Indiana border on the west, with I-75 the grow and certainty sets in, let us not forget, we realize
approximate eastern boundary. The SW corner is we know only a little. God will constantly disclose more
anchored by Cincinnati, Dayton is the geographic mid- to you and to us. — Nicholas S.-S.

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NORTHEAST REGION in-person and online meetings. Both Preambles are used
Delaware, Area 12: Delaware is known as the First State in Delaware and read at meetings as chosen by their
because it cast the deciding vote for the American respective group conscience. Many, if not most, groups
Independence in 1776, it was the first to ratify the U.S. in Delaware end their meetings with the Lord’s Prayer.
Constitution and it was the first to join the Union attain- And though there are divisions like the other areas
ing statehood in 1787. Delaware has the largest popula- regarding the Preamble and A.A.’s literature, Delaware’s
tion of horseshoe crabs in the world and is home to 86 groups carry the A.A. message of recovery to the still
endangered species, including the Leatherback sea turtle. suffering alcoholic in the way we know best, the lan-
People from Delaware are known as Delawareans and guage of the heart. — Ilir T.
people like us are known as sober Delawareans. Area 12, Maine, Area 28: Area 28 is 8 hours driving time north
also known as DAGSA, Delaware Area General Services to south and five hours driving time from east to west.
Assembly, is incorporated and is certified as a 501c3 There are 23 active districts and approximately 500
organization. We hold four to five assemblies annually active groups. The last assembly had GSRs comprising
which includes a pre-Conference assembly as well as a 75 percent of the voting body, a trend I hope will contin-
delegate report back assembly, an election assembly ue. The Maine Area Round Up at Sugarloaf Mountain
during odd years and an inventory assembly during even attracts A.A.s from all over the U.S. and Canada. Area 28
years. DAGSA hosts a website, Delawareaa.org, to pro- will host the NERD meeting in 2025 and NERAASA in
vide information and is the place where you can find 2026. Area 28 has an active Panel and Area Committees.
announcements for two upcoming major events, DEYPAA We are working toward making our assemblies hybrid.
at the end of September to be held in Wilmington, and — Allen S.
the state convention to be held the first weekend of
November in Dewey Beach. Middletown, Delaware, con- Maryland, Area 29: Area 29 encompasses all of Maryland,
trary to anyone’s belief, is not the same “Middletown, excluding the two counties north of Washington D.C.
U.S.A.” of Tradition Two fame in the “Twelve and This diverse region, from the western mountains to the
Twelve.” But one never knows what was in Bill’s mind eastern ocean, comprises major metropolitan areas, sub-
when he wrote it. Within the state’s 1,954 square miles urbs, farmlands, and rural communities. With eleven
of land there lies 242 active A.A. Groups — among the intergroups, including a dedicated Spanish Language
registered are five (5) Spanish, twelve (12) virtual, nine intergroup, 34 districts, and 886 active groups, and
(9) women, two (2) LGBTQ, and one (1) YP. There are an online meetings, Maryland is a vibrant and engaged com-
estimated 4,300 A.A. members within the state’s popula- munity. Maryland General Service holds 4 committee
tion of 1M. We now have 14 districts, the last of which is meetings and 5 assemblies each year, and hosts a
an online groups district, created last year and we are strategic planning session, state convention, and mini
one of the first few areas to have an online district. conference to foster a well-informed assembly. The
Unfortunately, five districts are presently inactive though pre-Conference process involves meetings with four
there is a voluntary effort by groups to attend adjoining regional committees, known as Conference Agenda
district meetings. Each of Delaware’s three counties are Review Committees. CARCs, as we call them, not only
also served by their respective intergroups, each having prepare the delegate and alternate delegate for the
websites with meeting search mechanisms for both General Service Conference but also stimulate wide-

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spread discussion and involvement in the General Service guage is English. The Area meets quarterly for Area
process. Through our year-round CARC process we con- Assemblies, held in a hybrid format to include online
tinue to review the actions of each Conference and devel- groups with GSR orientation, DCM sharing, committee
op new Proposed Agenda Items to enhance the meetings, and agendas reflecting our Pre-Conference,
effectiveness of our General Service. Area 29 comprises Post Conference, Workshops and Area Inventories or
19 committees, including the technology committee Elections on alternate years. Monthly business meetings
which recently unveiled a slick new polished website include our YPAA chairperson, who has a vote in our
(Marylandaa.org), and the newsletter committee which is area. It’s important to keep in mind the YPAAs are AA’s
busy reviving our newsletter, breathing new life into future! With the launch of our Panel 74 officers, DCMs,
these crucial communication channels. Reflecting the and committee chairs, new ideas are sparking new paths
state motto, “Strong Deeds, Gentle Words,” the trusted to reach out to the sick and suffering. Our Technology
servants of Area 29 embody this ethos in their dedicated Committee has pursued a new website vendor, so we
service to our members. Maryland, the birthplace of look forward to this adventure as we continue as an area
Samuel Shoemaker and the final resting place of Fitz to be more connected as well as more accessible. Our PI/
Mayo and Jim Burwell, boasts a storied history of extend- CPC chair is energized, looking for ways to connect with
ing a helping hand to the newcomer in the pursuit of professionals. We look forward with a passionate
recovery. Located right in the middle of the Atlantic coast Functions Committee that knows how to put the fun in
region, stop in for a meeting if you’re passing through. functions for our 57th Convention themed: “In the
— Terry P. Sunlight at Last.” We know we can do more and will
strive as an area to be more connected, unified and com-
Massachusetts (Western), Area 31: Our Area in Western mitted to serving the Fellowship of Area 43 and A.A.
Massachusetts is comprised of the cities and towns of around the world. I want to thank you for this opportuni-
Berkshire, Franklin, Hampden, and Hampshire counties ty to share the love from Area 43 as its P74 Delegate.
and has groups in three towns in north central Connecticut. — Sue W.
There are currently 301 active registered group spread
throughout six districts. Twenty-one of the groups are New Jersey (Southern), Area 45: Our Area is a diverse
virtual only with two registered as such. Seventeen of the region encompassing beaches, pine barrens, farms, and
groups are located in Connecticut. The Area is also home urban cities. With 37 districts divided into four sections,
to three Spanish language meetings. The six districts are our area hosts assemblies four times a year, with hybrid
all active in area service and host workshops annually. events being the norm for the past two years. Our
There are five active standing committees at the area Intergroup Literature Roadshows ensure Conference-
level: accessibility, archives, cooperation with the profes- approved literature and Grapevine books are readily
sional community, Grapevine, and public information, available for attendees. We have approximately 525
some of which host workshops. Area 31 supports two in-person and hybrid groups and 13 online-only groups.
Intergroup offices, Western Mass Intergroup in Holyoke In August 2022, we initiated a two-year virtual district
and Berkshire Intergroup in Pittsfield. Institutions are trial, forming Virtual District 42, which now holds month-
served by an area level committee, Western Mass ly meetings. Our committees are dedicated to spreading
Institutions, and by a district level committee, Berkshire the A.A. message. The Corrections Committee has been
Institutions. There are two area assemblies, one spring particularly active, organizing workshops to support
and one fall, with the spring assembly being our pre-Con- members bringing the message of hope behind bars. The
ference event. The assemblies are rotated through the six Bridging the Gap Chair also facilitates liaison efforts with
districts every three years. The area also has a roundup Intergroups to promote member involvement. The
committee that plans the event around the delegate’s Archive Committee has showcased Area 45’s rich histo-
report of the General Service Conference. Young People ry, exhibiting at events like the National A.A. Archives
in A.A. host a weekly meeting and actively bid to host Workshop in Sudbury, Ontario. Finally, we’ve made the
larger events. Finally, Area 31 cooperates with Area 30, NERAASA Scholarship ad hoc committee permanent
Eastern Massachusetts, to hold the annual Mass State after successfully granting scholarships to up to 100 area
Convention in November. — Stephen M. members. With this momentum, we’re thrilled to host
NERAASA 2025 virtually. — Wendy M.
New Hampshire, Area 43: It is the honor of a lifetime to
stand here representing Area 43. Our area is in the north- New York (Northeastern), Area 48: From its inception
east region, nestled between Areas 28, 30, 31,70 and 88. Area 48 has been known as HMB, Hudson-Mohawk-
We are small but mighty! The natural beauty of our area Berkshire Area 48 was renamed in 2022to Northeast
spans the glacially carved highest peak east of the New York or NENY for short. This name geographically
Mississippi, Mount Washington, not to mention beautiful aligns to the area borders and removed confusion from
lakes and rivers. We are bordered on the east with our other areas. Area 48 is one of four areas that makes up
seacoast and the west by the Monadnocks. Area 43 now the state of New York. Our area is geographically large
has 16 districts, 590 groups, some in-person, some and covers about 20,000 square miles. The area includes
online and 9,400 members. Currently our primary lan- 19 districts and about 11,000 members. Of the 813 reg-

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istered groups, 150 of them are fully online or hybrid.

This is a direct result of the pandemic and the adaptabil-
ity of the Area to do what is needed to reach the still
suffering alcoholic. Area 48 was one of the first areas to
have an online district. Area 48 has thirteen service com-
mittees, including an Inclusivity committee formed two
years ago. Currently, all service committees are full. Area
48 holds 8 annual meetings and an annual convention.
Area 48 is very energetic and enthusiastic bunch of trust-
ed servants! Area 48 has a long rooted history in
Alcoholics Anonymous from its first meetings being held
in Glens Falls, NY in 1939,to the Albany, NY gravesite of
Ebby T, the person who introduced the initial principle to
Bill W of “one alcoholic talking to another” to our meet-
ings today. Come visit. Stay awhile. We look forward to
serving you! I am humbled by the opportunity to serve
Area 48. I pray that my Higher Power continues to bless
Alcoholic Anonymous, and each of you! — Guy K.

New York (Western), Area 50: Our Area is comprised of

eight counties spanning from the shores of Lakes Ontario
and Erie to the Pennsylvania border. Within these 22
districts, we have four intergroups geographically located
throughout this large-ish area. Over 330 active groups
and many more meetings. Building on the previous
Panels’ experience, strength and knowledge along with
the action items from Area inventory, aptly named, a
vision from you, we work toward incorporating these
inventory items into all our committees and service
structure. GSR Education has a monthly coffee hour open
to all, tying into the Area goal of educating GSRs on their
role within service and the area constituency. Changing
agendas to cover various topics along with a newsletter name, Our motto is hope. We’re a light, a flame. For
has grown this valuable position in knowledge and those in the dark, caught in alcohol’s snare, There’s a
understanding. CPC / PIC are developing outward facing community here of people that care. / Through the Steps
webpages linking their committees to the intergroups. and Traditions, we find our way, Sharing our stories, day
Members attend the other committees’ monthly meet- by day. A tapestry of lives, once torn apart, Now mended
ings. Treatment: Bridging the Gap is established and together, through the language of the heart. / With 239
expanding. Gaining an understanding of the coverage for active groups, not a single one dull, And 551 meetings,
facilities and professional contacts at treatment centers your calendar’s full! A fellowship rich, with room for all,
within those counties, with outreach initiatives to grow We meet in a church, or maybe a hall. / From Providence
the A.A. volunteer community. Corrections: with so to Newport, we gather and jest, With slogans and say-
many jails and prisons in Western New York, this is one ings, we’re put to the test. “One day at a time,” we aim
busy committee. Intergroup liaisons attend all intergroup for our best, But “Easy does it,” when it’s time to rest. /
meetings and truly develop a working relationship to This gem of the East, with shores kissed by sea, Is more
ensure our message and committees continue to work than a state; it’s where souls break free. Area 61, with
together. It is with the utmost humility and thanks to the open arms, invites, You to a journey of recovery, of new-
alcoholics who laid this structure out for us to follow and found rights. A path that’s walked together, never alone,
grow. It never ceases to amaze what a group of dedicated In Rhode Island, a place to call home. / So, here’s to Area
alcoholics working together toward a common goal is 61, where spirits are high, We find our sobriety beneath
capable of achieving… truly extraordinary things. — Rhode Island’s sky. With a joke and a smile, and never a
Steve J. lie, “We’re not just sober; we’re learning to fly!” / In
laughter and joy, our recovery’s spun, In Rhode Island’s
Rhode Island, Area 61: I was born in Area 49 and drank A.A., where the fun’s never done. With every shared
in Area 30. I’ve enjoyed the quiet of 28 and the beauty of story, and every pun, We prove that in unity, we are one.
43. But nowhere is so special as where I got sober: Area — Tricia D.
61 is the only home for me. / In the heart of New
England’s embrace, lies Rhode Island, a small but mighty Vermont, Area 70: The Green Mountain State. With a
place. With just over a thousand square miles to its population of 650,000, Vermont has been described as

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one medium-sized city with the neighborhoods spread The DCMs have a pre-Conference planning meeting in
far apart. In many of these small towns you will find an Macon in the Spring, and a planning meeting for the
A.A. meeting; some constantly changing with the times, following year in the Area Office in the Fall. I’m honored
others holding steadfast to the Lord’s Prayer and “men to serve as delegate to the 74th General Service
and women” in the Preamble. Vermont has long been Conference, and I would like to thank Area 16 for allow-
known for its independence. “Freedom and Unity” is our ing me this opportunity. — Liz W.
state motto and, as nice as it sounds, those two qualities
are not always compatible. But in A.A., Tradition One Kentucky, Area 26: Area 26 serves almost 800 active
teaches us that unity and liberty can work together. groups that cover all of Kentucky and portions of south-
“Connecting with Love, Unity and Service” (the theme of ern Indiana, Illinois, and a small piece of north-central
the 2024 General Service Conference), sounds like a Tennessee. Two facts: Kentucky is the birthplace of
soothing and healing solution to the fracturing we have Henrietta Seiberling and bourbon. There are over two
been experiencing among our Fellowship. Fear for the barrels of bourbon for every Kentucky resident. Thank
sanctity and safety of Alcoholics Anonymous has risen to God for A.A. We have 36 districts with one being a lin-
the level of the early days described on page 140 of the guistic Spanish-speaking district. We have a hybrid Area
“Twelve and Twelve.” In Area 70 we are making a Meeting that regularly has 40-50 attendees via Zoom.
renewed effort to improve connection and communica- We offer breakout rooms for committee meetings and
tion so that every A.A. member has access to informa- this year we will be doing hybrid pre- and post-Confer-
tion and is encouraged to participate in service. To that ence reports. This has greatly helped participation in
end we are utilizing online sessions with the delegate eastern Kentucky as well as members with accessibili-
where any A.A. member can express questions and con- ties issues. Area 26 is launching a PSA Radio project with
cerns. We have renewed the former practice of having a our Public Information Committee. We have very pas-
full-day in-person pre-Conference sharing session, as sionate members who have very passionate feelings
well as district visits by the alternate delegate and dele- about many current topics in Alcoholics Anonymous.
gate. Area 70 has 285 active groups in 11 geographical We have a wonderful Tech Committee that consistently
districts. Our area committee of five officers, eleven has 15+ members in a monthly meeting. We also have
committee chairs, and 11 DCMs meets seven months of an Area 26 private Facebook group that has become
the year with four full area assemblies interspersed. very popular as a communication / information tool.
Vermont, the birthplace of both Bill and Bob, is a wel- There are no comments as they are disabled as it is not
coming state with lakes, mountains, and year-round a discussion platform. It is an extension of our Area 26
outdoor activities. Come visit. You can get there from email. Area 26 is passionate about being informed and
here! — Jim T. unified in our Three Legacies of Alcoholics Anonymous.
— Corey D.
SOUTHEAST REGION
Georgia, Area 16: This Area encompasses the entire Mississippi, Area 37: Our biggest upcoming highlight is
state of Georgia. Georgia has a very strong recovery that we will finally be hosting the Southeast Regional
community of approximately 15,000 members in just Forum after it had to be rescheduled due to COVID. I
under 800 groups in 52 districts. We also have an over- hope y’all can make it down to the Golden Nugget Hotel
lay district that covers the entire state of Georgia for our in Biloxi, December 6-8, 2024! Mississippi is a state of
Hispanic community. Assemblies happen three times a smaller-size cities scattered across rural countryside.
year, the third weekend of January, May, and September, There are 28 districts, 240 active groups, and some rath-
in Dublin, Georgia. These assemblies start on Friday er dim districts — which is sometimes due to the geogra-
night with an open discussion meeting, Saturday offers phy. Several districts have an enduring and consistent
committee meetings and informational training session presence, and a few have really caught on fire lately in
for GSRs, DCMs, and anyone attending for the first time the Jackson, Tupelo and Coast areas, which is exciting.
called Assembly 101. We have an open speaker meeting We have four Area Assemblies each year at a centrally
Saturday night, and the business meeting takes place on located site, and include our committee meetings, busi-
Sunday morning. We also have a prepaid convention ness meetings, and the annual pre-Conference Assembly.
annually in October. Groups contribute to a separate We divide our state into five different zones and rotate
fund that pays for the assembly so that there is no reg- an annual State Convention between them. Our area has
istration fee, and all members in Georgia can attend for five officers, four alternates, and 10 standing commit-
free. This convention moves around the state, is bid on tees. With the upsurge of virtual platform use our stand-
by districts two and a half years in advance and ing committees often meet between assemblies. Two
approved by the GSRs during the May assembly. We are Intergroups serve the state — one on the coast, and one
fortunate to have an Area Office in Macon. We have a in Jackson. Our area website has been recently reworked
full time and a part time person who take care of selling to be accessible and relevant, and includes meeting
and shipping out Conference-approved literature, creat- schedules, the Area Newsletter, our structure manual,
ing and printing an annual Area Directory, and arrang- upcoming events throughout the State and other infor-
ing everything needed to make the assembly happen. mation pertinent to the Fellowship — such as the current

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“Questions on Changing the Founder’s Writings.” At least when we come together for our common purpose, bound
one of the zones has hosted a pre-Conference workshop by unity, to do what sometimes seems impossible. In the
for the past five years. More and more groups and dis- Big Book we find the profound truth that “Our very lives,
tricts have been hosting service-oriented workshops. We as ex-problem drinkers, depend upon our constant
have high hopes for our continued growth and participa- thought of others and how we may help meet their
tion in Alcoholics Anonymous. — Katherine Y. needs.” This statement underscores the importance of
communication in the context of all Three Legacies.
South Carolina, Area 62: From the mountains in the Effective communication is the lifeline that connects us,
west of South Carolina to the beaches in the east, Area allowing the collective wisdom of the fellowship to flow
62 is made up of nearly 11,000 members in 430 groups, freely. Through open and honest dialogue, we fortify the
located in 23 districts spread across the varied regions of bonds that make A.A. a beacon of hope and recovery for
our beautiful state, including 21 Spanish-speaking groups all who suffer from alcoholism. No matter where our seat
and 11 registered virtual groups. South Carolina is grow- on the triangle is, are we doing all we can to ensure those
ing and more alcoholics are being helped than ever,
who hold the highest of roles in our structure, the home
while realizing that Area 62 is aptly named because we
group member, are informed? Are we doing all we can to
take Rule 62 to heart in our great state! Of particular
ensure that communications reach them and that their
interest is the growth we’ve seen in general service. Over
communications not only reach us but are given a fair
the last three to four years, we in Area 62 have resolved
hearing, even when difficult to hear? It’s been suggested
to educate the membership, throughout the state, on
we use this colossus of communication wisely and well.
what general service is and what it isn’t. Through work-
In my estimation, this is still one of our greatest opportu-
shops and visits to district business meetings we’ve seen
nities for improvement at all levels. How we do that,
tremendous growth in our service structure, filling with
meeting one another and those who suffer where they
people who want nothing more than to be of service to
are, is paramount to our effectiveness today and in the
something much greater than they are. While it was
future. I’ve been blessed by the opportunity to recover in
sometimes disheartening a few years ago to see only
about 10% of GSRs and 60% of DCMs show up at our A.A. and build a life in the great State of Tennessee, and
area assemblies, we now see nearly 30% of our GSRs I’m grateful that I get to serve Alcoholics Anonymous in
and over 95% of our DCMs at all three Assemblies that this capacity with all of you. It might be tough some-
we have in Area 62 each year. DCMs are also reporting times, but let’s talk. The future of A.A. depends on it. I
that in most of our districts, 90% or more GSRs are love you all. — Jimmy W.
attending all district business meetings. We’ve also seen Puerto Rico, Area 77: It is an honor and pleasure to
growth in Traditions studies, Service Manual meetings present the highlights of our Area 77, which after sever-
and Concept studies around the Area. In the program of
al hurricanes, earthquakes, plus the pandemic, we have
Alcoholics Anonymous we’re taught the real need to get
risen with great courage. We have 8 districts, one of
out of ourselves. We’re also taught that the best way to
them linguistic which has been a great positive impact
get out of ourselves is to help others. I’m also reminded
to the area. We have 98 Spanish-speaking groups and 9
of that passage in Bill’s Story that states that we must
English-speaking groups and 11 virtual groups, for an
perfect and enlarge our spiritual life through work and
average of approximately 800 members, of which in
self-sacrifice for others, lest we drink again. Area 62 does
the last three years we have celebrated the first anniver-
this through our officers and committee chairs who prac-
sary of 80 members. District and Area meetings are
tice continual outreach to each of our districts, both at
held monthly and are established according to the sug-
our Assemblies and through regular virtual meetings to
gestions in the Service Manual. We hold budget and
foster unity and aid the districts to better serve their local
new service assemblies. We have a monthly newsletter
groups and communities. I learned long ago that it’s not
that we get better and then help people. It’s that we help for the entire Fellowship. Every year we hold our activ-
people and get better. With that said, I’m happy to report ities such as Convention, the latter linguistic in all
that Area 62 continues to get better. — Rick P. aspects of celebration, plus we have Service Seminar
and Organized Services. We are currently impacting the
Tennessee, Area 64: With 633 active groups (15 of those high schools, several treatment hospitals are visited, we
Spanish-speaking, 12 virtual), 47 districts, 12 commit- have an A.A. poster in the police barracks, the message
tees, and 4 assemblies each year that move around the is being carried to 10 modules of correctional institu-
state, Area 64 encompasses the State of Tennessee. tions, about 33 radio stations play the A.A. PSA spots,
Around 25% of our groups are represented at assemblies all this with the same purpose that we can continue to
(including 25% of our Spanish-speaking groups). While reach the alcoholic who is suffering and ensure that the
we have many opportunities for improvement, one of hand of A.A. is always there !!!! And for that we are
the biggest challenges we face, one certainly not unique responsible. Our Area 77 is thankful to be part of the
to Area 64, is communication. This isn’t a new challenge, general service structure and not least, thank you for
and A.A. has no monopoly on it. Perhaps we are an enig- having me and I am grateful to be part of this wonderful
ma of sorts, as people who normally would not mix, program. — Julio M.

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n 2024 Conference Committees

Agenda Panel 74 PANEL 74
Matthew L. — A  rea 7, Northern Interior CA Kimbrough P. — A  rea 55, Northwest Ohio
PANEL 73
Diane R. — A  rea 35, Northern Minnesota Jimmy W. — A  rea 64, Tennessee
Marcheta B. — A  rea 44, Northern New Jersey
Jim T. — A rea 70, Vermont Kade W. — A  rea 18, Idaho
Rebecca H.* — A  rea 38, Eastern Missouri
Alan W. — A  rea 84, Northeast Ontario Secretary: Karina C.
John P.** — A rea 71, Virginia
Liz W. — A  rea 16, Georgia
Dave R. — A rea 69, Utah Treatment and Accessibilities
Secretary: Paola M.
Gisele V. — A
 rea 89, Northeast Québec
Secretary: Jon W. PANEL 73
PANEL 74 Judy C.** — A  rea 85, Northwest Ontario
Penny H. — A  rea 58, Oregon Literature Jon C.* — A rea 60, W. Pennsylvania
Guy K. — A  rea 48, Northeast New York PANEL 73 Tom F. — A rea 19, Chicago, Illinois
Erik L. — A rea 20, Northern Illinois Pete Barth** — A  rea 59, E. Pennsylvania Douglas S. — A  rea 5, Southern California
Secretary: Diana L. Tomy G.* — A  rea 1, Alabama/NW Florida PANEL 74
James O. — A rea 83, Eastern Ontario
Cooperation with the Dave D. — A  rea 63, South Dakota
Professional Community Crystal S. — A
 rea 72, Western Washington Kenneth (KC) H. — A  rea 68, Southwest Texas
PANEL 74 Wendy M. — A  rea 45, Southern NJ
PANEL 73
Blas A. — A rea 3, Arizona Katherine Y. — A  rea 37, Mississippi
Thomas G. — A  rea 17, Hawaii
Alice G. — A rea 80, Manitoba Secretary: Kelley C.
Paul H. — A rea 73, West Virginia
Warren G. — A  rea 56, Southwest Ohio
Kate Lambert L.** — A  rea 32, Central Michigan Trustees
Rick M. — A  rea 67, Southeast Texas Terry P. — A rea 29, Maryland
Linda W. — A  rea 66, Northwest Texas PANEL 73
Julie S.* — A rea 24, Iowa
Secretary: Sandra W. Ed A.** — A rea 53, Central SE Ohio
PANEL 74 Lynette D. — A  rea 13, Washington, D.C.
Dan D. — A  rea 86, Western Ontario Policy and Admissions Debbie H. — A  rea 39, Western Missouri
Allen S. — A rea 28, Maine PANEL 73 Rio D. * — A rea 79, BC/Yukon
Alexandra W. — A  rea 9, Mid-Southern CA Molly E.** — A  rea 27, Louisiana Cary W. — A rea 15, S. FL/Bhms/VI/Antigua
Secretary: Michael R. Cecil L. — A
 rea 88, Southeast Québec PANEL 74
Corrections Jo Ann M.* — A  rea 49, Southeast New York Deb L. — A  rea 90, Northwest Québec
Kacie N. — A rea 40, Montana Steve M. — A  rea 76, Wyoming
PANEL 73 Peter W. — A rea 75, Southern Wisconsin Stephen M. — A  rea 31, W. Massachusetts
Tim H.** — A  rea 54, Northeast Ohio
PANEL 74 Richard O. — A  rea 8, San Diego/Imp. CA
Eric L.* — A
 rea 6, Northern Coastal CA
Ed B. — A rea 34, Western Michigan Secretary: James H.
Dwayne M. — A  rea 82, Nova Scotia/NL
Kerri K. — A rea 46, New Mexico
PANEL 74 Archives¹
JoEllen L. — A rea 2, Alaska
Bridget B. — A  rea 25, Kansas Julio M. — A rea 77, Puerto Rico PANEL 73
Steve J. — A rea 50, Western New York Secretary: Racy J. Pablo H.* — A  rea 93, Central California
Paul L. — A rea 23, Southern Indiana Kate Lambert L.** — A  rea 32, Central Michigan
Rick P. — A rea 62, South Carolina Public Information James O. — A  rea 83, Eastern Ontario
Sue W. — A  rea 43, New Hampshire PANEL 73 Julie R. — A
 rea 51, North Carolina
Secretary: Rainer L. Mary A. — A  rea 14, North Florida PANEL 74
Finance Jeannie M.** — A  rea 4, Arkansas Tricia D. — A rea 61, Rhode Island
Christopher M.* — A  rea 47, Central New York Alice G. — A rea 80, Manitoba
PANEL 73 Jake S. — A
 rea 42, Nevada Nicholas S.-S. — A  rea 74, N. WI/Upper Pen. MI
Rachel M.** — A rea 52, North Dakota Jan V. — A
 rea 33, Southeast Michigan Kade W. — A  rea 18, Idaho
Sarah M. — A
 rea 10, Colorado
PANEL 74 Secretary: Michelle Mirza
Suzanne S.* — A rea 30, E. Massachusetts
André D. — A  rea 87, Southwest Québec
PANEL 74 International Conventions/Regional
Tricia D. — A
 rea 61, Rhode Island Forums¹
Corey D. — A  rea 26, Kentucky Nick K. — A rea 41, Nebraska
Lisa G. — A  rea 92, Washington East Karen C. — A  rea 78, Alberta/NWT PANEL 73
Marietta M. — A  rea 81, Secretary: Misha Q. Ed A.* — A  rea 53, Central SE Ohio
New Brunswick/PEI Jon C. — A rea 60, W. Pennsylvania
Nicholas S.-S. — A  rea 74, N. WI/Upper Pen. MI Report and Charter Cecil L. — A rea 88, Southeast Québec
Ilir T. — A
 rea 12, Delaware PANEL 73 Crystal S.** — A  rea 72, Western Washington
Secretary: Zenaida Medina Mary E.-K.* — A  rea 11, Connecticut PANEL 74
Grapevine and La Viña Ryan F.** — A  rea 57, Oklahoma Kerri K. — A rea 46, New Mexico
Pablo H. — A rea 93, Central California Karen O’Sullivan C. — A  rea 78, Alberta/NWT
PANEL 73 Meg H. — A rea 36, Southern Minnesota Katherine Y. — A  rea 37, Mississippi
Tom H. — A  rea 21, Southern Illinois Mike M. — A rea 22, Northern Indiana Secretary: Eileen A.
Julie R.** — A  rea 51, North Carolina
Secretary: Patrick C.
Lori R. — A rea 91, Saskatchewan
Rick W.* — A  rea 65, Northeast Texas

*Chair
**Alternate Chair 1
Members of this committee serve on this as a second committee assignment.

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2025 CONFERENCE CHAIRPERSONS AND ALTERNATE CHAIRPERSONS

Committee Chairperson Alternate
Agenda Eric L., Northern Illinois Penny H., Oregon
CPC Alex W., Mid-Southern CA Dan D., Western Ontario
Corrections Bridget B., Kansas Stephen J., Western New York
Finance Corey D., Kentucky Nicholas S.-S., N.WI/U.P. MI
Grapevine/La Viña Liz W., Georgia Matthew L., N. Interior CA
Literature Terry P., Maryland Warren G., Southwest Ohio
Policy and Admissions Ed B., Western Michigan Kerri K., New Mexico
Public Information Nick K., Nebraska Tricia D., Rhode Island
Report and Charter Jimmy W., Tennessee Kade W., Idaho
Treatment and Accessibilities Wendy M., Southern NJ Katherine Y., Mississippi
Trustees Steve M., Wyoming Richard O., San Diego/Imperial CA
Archives* Kade W., Idaho Nicholas S.-S., N.WI/U.P. MI
International Conventions/Regional Forums* Katherine Y., Mississippi Kerri K., New Mexico

*Members of this committee serve on this as a secondary committee assignment.

n 2024 Trustees’ Committees*

Archives Cooperation with the International Nominating
Reilly K., chair Professional Community/ Marita R., chair Tom H., chair
Morgan B. Treatment and Robert L., vice chair Reilly K.
Cathi C. Accessibilities Vera F. Judith Ann Karam
Al Mooney Kerry Meyer, chair Cindy F. Deborah K.
Paz P. Teddy B-W. Tom H. Andie Moss
Joyce S. Morgan B. Molly Oliver Ken T.
Michelle Mirza, secretary Reilly K. David S. James H., secretary
Al Mooney Irene D., secretary
Audit Marita R. Public Information
Kevin Prior, chair ***Gerry C., consultant International Conventions/ Deborah K., chair
Reilly K. ***Tom P., consultant Regional Forums Reilly K.
Judith Ann Karam Michael R., secretary Joyce S., chair Morgan B.
Marita R. Cindy F. Marita R.
David S. Corrections Robert L. David S.
Carolyn W. Andie Moss, chair Kevin Prior Ken T.
Paul Konigstein, secretary Teddy B-W. Irma V. John W.
Cindy F. Carolyn W. **Kirk H., ACM
Compensation Robert L. Patrick C., secretary, Misha Q., secretary
Judith Ann Karam, chair Clinton M. —International Conventions
Reilly K. Kerry Meyer Eileen A., secretary, GSB Sharing Session
Joyce S. Eileen A., interim secretary —Regional Forums Deborah K., chair
Carolyn W. Karina C., secretary
Paul Konigstein, secretary Finance & Budgetary Literature
Kevin Prior, chair Irma V. B.-N., chair
Conference Cathi C. Teddy B-W.
Carolyn W., chair Teresa J. Vera F.
Cathi C. Judith Ann Karam Teresa J.
Vera F. Clinton M. Clinton M.
Tom H. Paz P. Joyce S.
Paz P. David S. John W.
Irma V. Carolyn W. **Cesar F., ACM
John W. Zenaida Medina, secretary **Gerry R., ACM Officers of the
Diana L., secretary Rainer L., secretary General Service Board
Chair, Mike L., Interim
First Vice-Chair, Sr. Judith Ann Karam, CSA, FACHE
Treasurer, Kevin Prior, MBA, CFA, CPA
* Members of this committee serve on this as a secondary committee assignment. Secretary, Irma V. B.-N.
* GSB chair/interim chair is an ex officio member on all committees; GSO’s general manager is an ex officio member Assistant Treasurer, Paul Konigstein
on all committees except the Audit Committee, Compensation Committee and the Nominating Committee. Assistant Secretary, Racy J.
** Appointed Committee Member
*** Consultant

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■ 2024 Conference Members

CLASS A (NONALCOHOLIC) TRUSTEES is also the author of several textbooks and papers. Andie
Sr. Judith Ann Karam, CSA, FACHE (Richfield, OH) was is a current member of the American Correctional Asso-
elected Class A trustee in May 2019. Sister Judith Ann is ciation, American Probation and Parole Association and
the congregational leader of the Sisters of Charity of St. other professional associations and has been the recipi-
Augustine and the immediate past president and CEO of ent of several notable awards. Andie chairs the trustees’
the Sisters of Charity Health System. Begun in 1962, her Corrections Committee and is a member of the Nominat-
ing Committee and Centennial Commemoration ad hoc
health care ministry has included working as a clinical
committee.
pharmacist as well as serving in numerous executive po-
sitions and leadership roles in health care administration, Molly A. Oliver (Williamsville, NY) was elected Class A
among them as board chair of the Catholic Health Associ- trustee in April 2021. Molly is currently the Executive Di-
ation in 2015. She has won many awards and distinctions rector of the Center for Leadership and Organizational Ef-
along the way and is a Life Fellow of the American College fectiveness at the University of Buffalo. Molly has 30 years
of Healthcare Executives. She chairs the trustees’ ad hoc of experience developing organizations around the world,
Orientation Committee and serves on the Nominating, Fi- and her areas of expertise include strategic planning,
nance, Compensation and Audit Committees. board development, fundraising, communications and
program development. She has fostered strong partner-
Hon. Kerry Meyer (Minneapolis, MN) was elected Class A ships with leading companies, organizations, government
trustee in April 2022. Kerry is a district court (trial) judge leaders and educational partners to deliver programs lo-
for the Fourth Judicial District in Minneapolis. Kerry has cally and globally. A leader in her community, Molly has
presided over the DWI, Mental Health and Veterans Treat- achieved recognition and awards in several notable dis-
ment Courts. She has held court leadership and assign- ciplines. She chairs the GSB 1728 Meeting, serves on the
ments at the district, county and state levels, including trustees’ International Committee and is a member of the
criminal and treatment courts. She is also the State Judicial AA Grapevine Board.
Outreach Liaison to address impaired driving issues with
Kevin J. Prior, MBA, CFA, CPA (St. Louis, MO) was
judges throughout Minnesota. Kerry is actively involved in
elected Class A trustee in May 2021. With a professional
community service, appearing as a guest speaker at local
background in accounting and finance, Kevin is currently
schools and colleges as well as local A.A. conferences,
Senior Director of Finance of the Catholic Health Associ-
sharing on topics of cooperating with professionals. She
ation of the United States, which advances the interests
chairs the CPC/Treatment-Accessibilities and ad hoc Policy
of the largest group of nonprofit healthcare providers in
committees, serves on the Corrections and Audit commit-
the nation. In addition to managing a $25 million budget,
tees and is a member of the ad hoc Participation of Online Kevin serves in a cross-functional role impacting resource
Groups in the General Service Structure and Centennial planning, investment and treasury management, risk
Commemoration committees. management, financial reporting and operations. Kevin
Al J. Mooney, III, MD, FAAFP, FASAM (Cary, NC) was is currently treasurer of the General Service Board, chair
elected Class A trustee in May 2019. He has provided of the Finance and Audit Committees, and serves on the
medical care in the specialties of family, behavioral, com- Retirement and International Conventions/Regional Fo-
munity and addiction medicine for over 40 years. A noted rums Committees.
author and a respected pioneer in the field, Al helped es-
tablish the certification standards for addiction medicine CLASS B (ALCOHOLIC) TRUSTEES
in the United States in the 1980s. For most of his career, Al Cathi C. (Indianapolis, IN) was elected East Central re-
has held an adjunct faculty position with the Department gional trustee in April 2021. Cathi was a Panel 64 delegate
of Family Medicine at the University of North Carolina. and has stayed active in area service since rotating, most
Currently, he is involved in projects promoting addiction recently as chair of the ad hoc Committee on Virtual As-
awareness worldwide. He serves on the Archives and CPC/ semblies and as Area 23 archivist. She has served as area
Treatment-Accessibilities Committees. secretary and on a variety of group, district and area com-
Anadora “Andie” Moss (Washington, D.C.) was elected mittees including CPC, Finance, Literature, Grapevine/La
Class A trustee in April 2022. Andie is the principal and Viña, Archives, Group Services and State Convention. Now
owner of a criminal justice consulting firm based in Wash- retired, Cathi has wide experience in retail management,
ington, DC. The firm provides consulting services to fed- customer service, staff training and management devel-
eral, state, and local government agencies and private opment. She chairs the AAWS Board and serves on the ad
organizations, including the National Institute of Correc- hoc Orientation Committee and the Archives, Conference
tions (NIC), Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA), and the and Finance Committees.
Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS) in the field of criminal jus- Tom H. (Marietta, GA) was elected Southeast regional
tice. Andie has given numerous presentations throughout trustee in April 2021. As a Panel 62 delegate, Tom chaired
the U.S. on various aspects of the criminal justice system the Conference Committee on Trustees. He has also
and on organizational leadership and related subjects. She served on the Grapevine Online Editorial Advisory Board

* Rotating at the close of the 2024 Conference. 151

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and as alternate delegate, area chair, and in many other Canada Territorial Services Assembly and the Quebec Pro-
home group, intergroup, district and area service posi- vincial Assembly. Robert was instrumental in convening
tions, including co-chair of the volunteer host committee meetings with the Archbishop of Dakar and the Bishop of
for the 2015 International Convention. Tom served ex- Casamance in helping to bring information about A.A. to
tensively with the International Conference of Young Peo- the clerical community. In his professional life, Robert is a
ple in Alcoholics Anonymous (ICYPAA), including as chair freelance journalist, photographer, writer and lecturer and
of its advisory council. He retired as a lieutenant in his the author of several books and other published works.
county’s fire and emergency services department. He is a He has also traveled extensively around the world for hu-
member of the General Service Board, chairs the trustees’ manitarian purposes. He serves on the International Con-
Nominating Committee and serves on the Conference, ventions/Regional Forums, Corrections and International
Retirement and International Committees. He also chairs Committees. He is also a member of the ad hoc Participa-
the ad hoc Centennial Commemoration committee and is tion of Online Groups committee.
a member of the Location Plus ad hoc committee. *Mike L. (Omaha, NE) was elected West Central regional
Teresa J. (Albuquerque, New Mexico) was elected South- trustee in May 2020. A Panel 53 delegate from Area 24,
west regional trustee in April 2023. A Panel 68 delegate, Mike has held numerous service positions at the district
Teresa has stayed active in area service since rotating, re- and area level, actively participating in corrections ser-
cently as Treasurer of the Southwest Regional Delegates’ vice work, workshops and other A.A. events. Mike is op-
Assembly. She has served as Area chairperson, Treasurer, erations manager of a truck equipment company and
area website Meeting Editor, office volunteer at the Al- has extensive experience in management, distribution
buquerque Central Office, group inventory facilitator and and operations. Additionally, he is a member of several
actively engaged in sponsoring members. Teresa has ex- local community boards and historical societies. Mike is
tensive professional experience in graphic design and has interim chair of the A.A. General Service Board and an
owned her own business in this area for over 30 years. ex-officio member of all trustee committees.
She is also a trained educator and experienced chemist. Paz P. (Tucson, AZ) was elected general service trustee
She serves on the Literature and Finance Committees and in April 2021. Paz served as a nontrustee director on the
is a member of the ad hoc Location Plus committee. AA Grapevine Board from 2014 to 2018 and as a mem-
Reilly K. (Winston, OR) was elected Pacific regional ber of the La Viña Editorial Advisory Board from 2008 to
trustee in April of 2022. Reilly was a Panel 66 delegate 2014. In her area, she has been Hispanic coordinator, in-
from Area 58 (Oregon) and has been actively involved in terpreter, newsletter editor and AA Grapevine coordinator.
A.A. service since the mid 1960s, including serving as the Paz is currently a human resources specialist, with skills
area’s Grapevine/La Viña Committee chair, and chairing in benefits administration, data and compliance manage-
various committees. Reilly holds decades of experience ment, and on-boarding activities. She chairs the Grape-
in financial management as a licensed tax consultant of vine Board and serves on the Orientation, Conference,
23 years and owner of a tax and consulting firm. She Archives and Finance Committees and as a member of
chairs the Archives Committee, serves on the CPC/Treat- the Location Plus ad hoc committee.
ment-Accessibilities, Compensation, Audit, Retirement Marita R. (Mesquite, NV) was elected trustee-at-large/U.S.
and Nominating Committees, and is a member of the ad in April 2021. As a Panel 49 delegate, she chaired the Con-
hoc committee on Participation of Online Groups in the ference Report and Charter Committee. While residing in
General Service Structure. other areas, she served as director of an intergroup board
Deborah K. (Durham, NC) was elected general service and as liaison to a Hospitals & Institutions intergroup.
trustee in April 2021. She served as an AAWS director Marita also created and chaired the first Native Ameri-
from 2017 to 2021. Deborah was a Panel 59 delegate can Intertribal/GSO meeting in Southern California. Now
from Area 51 (North Carolina). She is a clinical neuropsy- retired, Marita has professional experience in both edu-
chologist and associate professor at a major university cation (including on a Native American reservation) and
medical center, and has expertise in clinical diagnosis, in economic development (including projects in several
research design and global health. Deb chairs the Public southeast Asian countries). She has traveled extensively
Information Committee GSB Sharing Session, is a director throughout the world and within the U.S. She chairs the
on the AAWS Board and serves on the trustees’ Policy and International Committee and serves on the CPC/Treat-
Nominating Committees. ment-Accessibilities, Audit, Orientation and Public Infor-
Robert L. (Quebec, Canada) was elected trustee-at-large/ mation Committees. She is also a member of the Location
Canada in April 2023. He was a Panel 48 delegate for Plus ad hoc committee.
Area 89, northeast Quebec and served as a member of Joyce S. (Toronto, Ontario) was elected Eastern Can-
the Board of La Vigne and Publications Françaises. Robert ada regional trustee in April 2022. A Panel 65 delegate,
has been actively involved in A.A. service since the mid- Joyce has served at the district and area levels, and has
1980s. He implemented a Bridging the Gap Committee, chaired and assisted in various conferences and service
served as area chair and a member of several local com- assemblies, including the first Eastern Canada Delegates
mittees. He has actively facilitated workshops on the Tra- Orientation in 2021. Joyce also served as co-chair and
ditions and Concepts, founded study groups, participated treasurer for the Canadian Eastern Regional Alcoholics
in many area and regional events, including the Eastern Anonymous Service Assembly (CERAASA) in 2015. Joyce

152 * Rotating at the close of the 2024 Conference.

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is semi-retired and has been employed as an executive she served as the Panel 63 delegate for Area 79. Caro-
assistant for the past 35 years. Joyce enjoys golfing and lyn remains very active locally in her home group and
traveling and is currently involved in volunteer work at in sponsorship. Professionally Carolyn is the Privacy Di-
a local community organization, providing mentoring rector for a large health care company in Canada. She is
and support to those in need. She is a director on the certified as an Information Privacy Professional and an
Grapevine Board, chairs the International Conventions/ Information Privacy Manager. Prior to this role, she was
Regional Forums Committee, serves on the Compensa- responsible for clinics with combined revenues of over
tion, Archives and Literature Committees and chairs the $14 million per year. Carolyn serves on the Canadian
ad hoc committee on Participation of Online Groups in Advisory Board for the International Association of Pri-
the General Service Structure. vacy Professionals. She chairs the Conference Commit-
David S. (East Chatham, NY) served as Grapevine director tee and serves on the International Convention/Regional
from April 2022-2023. David is actively involved in local Forums, Audit, Compensation and Finance Committees.
service activities, held several service positions including She chairs the ad hoc Location Plus committee, is a mem-
group and district treasurer, and participated in several ber of the ad hoc Centennial Commemoration and Par-
area service workshops. David’s professional experience ticipation of Online groups committees and is a director
lies in media business, subscription marketing for a va- on the AAWS Board.
riety of products, print and digital, as well as in online
product development and marketing. He leads his own NONTRUSTEE DIRECTORS
consultancy, working with challenged businesses to help Teddy B-W. (Oakland, CA) was elected AA Grapevine non-
accelerate their growth through various strategies. He trustee director in April 2023. Teddy was a past panel
serves on the Public Information, Retirement, Audit, Pol- 69 delegate from Area 06 and served the area in vari-
icy, International and Finance Committees. He is a mem- ous service positions, including chair of Interpretation &
ber of the ad hoc Centennial Commemoration committee Translation Committee. He is the Chair of PRAASA 2024.
and is a director on the Grapevine Board. Teddy has focused his life on service to others and work-
Ken T. (Pepperell, MA) was elected Northeast regional ing with diverse communities from across the globe, such
trustee in April 2023. A past panel 63 delegate from Area as Interpride, which is an International LGBTQ pride or-
30, Ken has held numerous service positions including ganizers association. He also served on the board of the
Area Chair, Secretary/Treasurer of the Northeast Regional San Francisco Visitors and Conventions Bureau, where he
Delegates (NERD) Reunion, chaired NERAASA in 2017, worked with local business leaders. Teddy’s business skills
MA State Convention in 2016 and continues to be active lie in nonprofit management and he currently serves on
on the State Convention committee. In his professional a variety of charitable organizations, both regional and
life, Ken is a software engineer and is currently em- national, as a director and chief marketing officer, with
ployed as a senior software engineer/technical lead. He special emphasis on strategic planning, communications,
has gained extensive experience in this field through his financial management, policy development and legal
work with a variety of industries, including audio, video, work. Teddy also worked as a legal executive with London
medical devices, and others. In addition, as a website de- law firms, specializing in trust and charity administration,
veloper, Ken is conversant in many levels of technologies estates, tax planning, will drafting and more. He serves on
involved in this field, on both the server and application the Literature, CPC/Treatment-Accessibilities and Correc-
side of development. He serves on the Nominating and tions Committees.
Public Information Committees and is a member of the Morgan B. (New Orleans, LA) was elected nontrustee di-
ad hoc Participation of Online Groups committee. rector on the AA Grapevine Board in April 2023. Morgan
*Irma V. B.-N. (Esterhazy, SK) was elected Western Can- recently served as an appointed committee member on the
ada regional trustee in May 2020. Irma has held numer- trustees’ Public Information Committee from 2021 to April
ous service positions at the group, district and area level, 2023. In her area, she served as the Technology Chair, Web-
including as Panel 59 delegate. She has participated at master, and DCM. In her professional life, Morgan is the
many Regional Forums and other regional and local A.A. owner of a digital marketing company and has extensive
events. As an executive director of a not-for-profit orga- experience in Marketing, where she specializes in creat-
nization for over 25 years, she has experience in busi- ing and executing custom cross-platform digital marketing
ness management, human resources, fund development campaigns. She serves on the Archives, CPC/Treatment-Ac-
and marketing as well as senior case management. She cessibilities and Public Information Committees.
currently serves on several community boards and on a Vera F. (Lanesborough, MA) was elected AAWS director in
national management council. Irma chairs the Literature April 2021. She has served in several roles, including qual-
Committee and serves on the Conference, Policy, Orien- ity assurance coordinator and general manager, during
tation and International Conventions/Regional Forums her 17 years at a nonprofit whose mission is to empower
Committees and is a member of the Location Plus ad hoc people of diverse abilities. A Panel 68 delegate for Area
committee. 58, Vera has served in her area on Grapevine/La Viña and
Carolyn W. (Surrey, BC) served as a nontrustee director various host committees. She brings a multidimensional
on the AAWS Board from 2018-2022 and elected general view to her professional life and service by utilizing the
service trustee in April 2022. Prior to serving on AAWS, myriad of her lived experiences. Vera has focused her life

* Rotating at the close of the 2024 Conference. 153

 CONTENTS

work on advising others to move toward healing in the Gail P. (Victoria, Canada) was elected Western Canada
areas of cancer survivorship, sexual identity, drug and al- Regional Trustee in April 2024. She previously served as
cohol addiction, and racialized trauma. She recently re- Area 79 delegate (Panel 69). Her many years of service
tired after 32 years in social services and enjoys traveling, include serving as area treasurer, area alternate chair and
camping, theater, dance, photography and spending time Grapevine chair, area chair, alternate delegate, and Liter-
with family and friends. Vera serves on the trustees’ Con- ature Committee chair. An active, enthusiastic member
ference and International Committees. of her community, she is on the board of directors for a
*Cindy F. (Fairfax, VA) was elected AA Grapevine director senior housing facility and has been on the board of other
in May 2020. Cindy has been active in A.A. service since community organizations. From 1996 to 2012, she owned
1994, serving in various positions at the local and area and operated a scuba diving shop and café. Since then,
levels, including as a Panel 61 delegate. She also served as she has been self-employed as a bookkeeper for small
an appointed committee member on the trustees’ Litera- businesses.
ture Committee from 2015 to 2019. Cindy has extensive Nontrustee directors elected by the General
professional experience in the fields of finance, strategic Service Board following the 2024 Conference
planning, information technology and operations. She is
currently the vice president of program management for Nikki O. (Freeport, Maine) was elected AA Grapevine di-
a large government contractor. She serves on the Inter- rector in May 2024. She is a past delegate (Panel 70) and
national Convention/Regional Forums, Corrections and has been involved in area service as Northeast Regional
International Committees and is a director on the Grape- Secretary/Treasurer, alternate delegate, convention chair,
vine Board. and served for two years on the Grapevine and La Viña
committees. Nikki has developed a life and career built
Clinton M. (Ottawa, Ontario) was elected AAWS director upon service and forging partnerships and strong alli-
in April 2022. A Panel 64 delegate for Area 80 (Mani- ances with life-changing organizations across the state.
toba), Clinton also served in various positions at the local She is director of Clinical Operations in experiential clini-
and area levels, including chair of the Policies and Proce- cal marketing and development. She has been a licensed
dures Committee of Ottawa Area Intergroup. Profession- alcohol and drug counselor since 2006 and a certified clin-
ally, Clinton is a manager of a professional accounting ical supervisor since 2008. Nikki worked as a program de-
practices group with over 25 years of experience leading velopment manager for a residential addiction treatment
multi-disciplinary teams in the federal public service and and behavior health treatment program from 2008–2015.
private sector. Clinton is a member of a local Masters’ She was an advisory group member of a statewide initia-
Swim Club, is a pilot and speaks French as a second lan- tive for women and children affected by substance use,
guage. He serves on the trustees’ Literature, Corrections, 2020–2023, has been involved in statewide strategic plan-
Retirement and Finance committees. ning for health care initiatives, 2022–2023, and received
John W. (New York, NY) was elected AAWS director in a Leadership Award from the governor in 2015.
April 2021. He has over 25 years’ experience as a non-
profit executive, specializing in resource development, Class A Trustee elected by the General
strategic planning and governance. John has also served Service Board following the 2024 Conference
in a leadership capacity on various civic and nonprofit Dawn M. Klug (Asheville, North Carolina) was elected
boards over the last two decades. As the Panel 67 dele- Class A trustee in April 2024. She has been chief operat-
gate for Area 49, he served on the Conference Literature ing officer and owner of the Employee Assistance Network
Committee, which he chaired in 2018, as well as on the since 2002. Dawn is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Archives Committee. John serves on the trustees’ Litera- in North Carolina. She served as an Employee Assistance
ture, Conference, Public Information and ad hoc Orienta- Program Coordinator for Mental Health Services of Ca-
tion committees. tawba County as well as a program therapist for Inpatient
and Intensive Outpatient Programs, providing chemi-
Class B Trustees elected by the General cal dependency treatment at Horizon Health at Rowan
Service Board following the 2024 Conference Regional Medical Center. From 2012 to 2016, she was
Charles H. (Lincoln, Nebraska) was elected West Central instrumental in developing and presenting Employee As-
Regional Trustee in April 2024. A past delegate for Area sistance Program Association Conferences, an Addictions
41 (Panel 56) he served as GSR for his home group, There Professional Conference, and the Alcoholics Anonymous
Is a Solution, was DCM for District 29, and was one of the Convention in Atlanta, Georgia. Dawn earned a Bachelor
first area registrars in Area 41. Charlie has been an active of Science degree in Psychology and a Masters in Mental
and helpful leader, functioning in many posts throughout Health Counseling. Over the years she has held offices
the Fellowship. He has been area workshop chair, secre- in the North Carolina Employee Assistance Professionals
tary, and alternate delegate. Charlie was an owner of an Association (NCEAPA)—from Treasurer to Vice President
insurance agency and was employed as a banker. He has to Past President. Dawn has sat on the Board of Directors
spent many years doing treatment and correctional work. for the International Employee Assistance Professionals
He is now a setup coordinator of his home group and a Association, and in 2018 she received the John Burke
self-proclaimed retired real estate investor, who still buys President’s Achievement Award, NCEAPA. At present, she
and manages many properties. is the current Vice Chair of the Asheville Humane Society.

154 * Rotating at the close of the 2024 Conference.

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Area Delegates
What do panel numbers mean? Delegates to each Conference are made up of two “panels.” One is even-numbered and includes
those elected to start serving in an even year. The other is odd-numbered and includes those elected to start serving in an odd year.
The 74th Conference includes Panel 73 (delegates now serving for their second year) and Panel 74 (new delegates).

1. ALABAMA/ 15. SOUTH FLORIDA/BAHAMAS/ 30. EASTERN

NORTHWEST FLORIDA (Panel 73) VIRGIN ISLANDS/ANTIGUA (Panel 73) MASSACHUSETTS (Panel 73)
Tomy G., Pike Road, AL Cary W., Sebring, FL Suzanne S., Dedham, MA

2. ALASKA (Panel 74) 16. GEORGIA (Panel 74) 31. WESTERN

JoEllen L., Anchorage, AK Liz W., Savannah, GA MASSACHUSETTS (Panel 74)
Stephen M., Holyoke, MA
3. ARIZONA (Panel 74) 17. HAWAII (Panel 73)
Blas A., Mesa, AZ Thomas G., Kailua, HI 32. CENTRAL MICHIGAN (Panel 73)
Kate L., Jackson, MI
4. ARKANSAS (Panel 73) 18. IDAHO (Panel 74)
Jeannie M., Bentonville, AR Kade W., Hagerman, ID 33. SOUTHEAST MICHIGAN (Panel 73)
Jan V., West Bloomfield, MI
5. SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA (Panel 73) 19. CHICAGO, ILLINOIS (Panel 73)
Douglas S., Downey, CA Tom F., Oak Lawn, IL 34. WESTERN MICHIGAN (Panel 74)
Ed B., Kentwood, MI
6. NORTHERN COASTAL 20. NORTHERN ILLINOIS (Panel 74)
CALIFORNIA (Panel 73) Erik L., Naperville, IL 35. NORTHERN MINNESOTA (Panel 74)
Eric L., Saratoga, CA Diane R., Hibbing, MN
21. SOUTHERN ILLINOIS (Panel 73)
7. NORTHERN INTERIOR Thomas (Tom) H., Makanda, IL 36. SOUTHERN MINNESOTA (Panel 73)
CALIFORNIA (Panel 74) Meg H., St. Paul, MN
Matthew L., Meadow Vista, CA 22. NORTHERN INDIANA (Panel 73)
Michael (Mike) M., Schererville, IN 37. MISSISSIPPI (Panel 74)
8. SAN DIEGO/IMPERIAL Katherine Y., Waveland, MS
CALIFORNIA (Panel 74)
23. SOUTHERN INDIANA (Panel 74)
Richard O., San Diego, CA Paul L., Indianapolis, IN 38. EASTERN MISSOURI (Panel 73)
Rebecca H., Peters, MO
9. MID-SOUTHERN 24. IOWA (Panel 73)
CALIFORNIA (Panel 74)
Julie S., Cedar Rapids, IA 39. WESTERN MISSOURI (Panel 73)
Alex (Alexandra) W., Debbie H., Lee’s Summit, MO
Redondo Beach, CA
25. KANSAS (Panel 74)
Bridget B., Topeka, KS 40. MONTANA (Panel 73)
10. COLORADO (Panel 73)
Kacie N., Kalispell, MT
Sarah M., Boulder, CO
26. KENTUCKY (Panel 74)
Corey D., Owensboro, KY 41. NEBRASKA (Panel 74)
11. CONNECTICUT (Panel 73)
Nick K., Omaha, NE
Mary E.-K., Colchester, CT
27. LOUISIANA (Panel 73)
Molly E., New Orleans, LA 42. NEVADA (Panel 73)
12. DELAWARE (Panel 74)
Jake S., Henderson, NV
Ilir M T., Camden Wyoming, DE
28. MAINE (Panel 74)
Allen S., Bucksport, ME 43. NEW HAMPSHIRE (Panel 74)
13. DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA (Panel 73)
Sue W., Merrimack, NH
Lynette D., Washington, DC
29. MARYLAND (Panel 74)
Terry P., Columbia, MD 44. NORTHERN NEW JERSEY (Panel 73)
14. NORTH FLORIDA (Panel 73)
Marcheta B., Plainfield, NJ
Mary A., Indian Harbour Beach, FL

155
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45. SOUTHERN NEW JERSEY (Panel 74) 63. SOUTH DAKOTA (Panel 74) 79. BRITISH COLUMBIA/
Wendy M., Hammonton, NJ Dave D., Rapid City, SD YUKON (Panel 73)
Rio D., Prince George, BC
46. NEW MEXICO (Panel 74) 64. TENNESSEE (Panel 74)
Kerri K., Los Lunas, NM Jimmy W., Soddy Daisy, TN 80. MANITOBA (Panel 74)
Alice G., Winnipeg, MB
47. CENTRAL NEW YORK (Panel 73) 65. NORTHEAST TEXAS (Panel 73)
Christopher M., Fairport, NY Richard W., Euless, TX 81. NEW BRUNSWICK/
PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND (Panel 74)
48. NORTHEASTERN NY (Panel 74) 66. NORTHWEST TEXAS (Panel 74) Marietta M., Stratford, PE
Guy K., High Falls, NY Melinda W., Lubbock, TX
82. NOVA SCOTIA/NEWFOUNDLAND/
67. SOUTHEAST TEXAS (Panel 73) LABRADOR (Panel 73)
49. SOUTHEAST NEW YORK (Panel 73)
Rick M., Lake Jackson, TX Dwayne M., Stellarton, NS
Jo Ann D., Jamaica, NY

68. SOUTHWEST TEXAS (Panel 74) 83. EASTERN ONTARIO (Panel 73)
50. WESTERN NEW YORK (Panel 74)
Kenneth (KC) H., James O. Toronto, ON
Stephen J., Buffalo, NY
Corpus Christi, TX
84. NORTHEAST ONTARIO (Panel 74)
51. NORTH CAROLINA (Panel 73)
69. UTAH (Panel 73) Alan W., Sudbury, ON
Julie R., Raleigh, NC
David R., Fillmore, UT
85. NORTHWEST ONTARIO (Panel 73)
52. NORTH DAKOTA (Panel 73)
70. VERMONT (Panel 74) Judy C., Thunder Bay, ON
Rachel M., West Fargo, ND
James T., Montpelier, VT
86. WESTERN ONTARIO (Panel 74)
53. CENTRAL &
SOUTHEAST OHIO (Panel 73) 71. VIRGINIA (Panel 73) Dan D., Hamilton, ON
Edwin A., Columbus, OH John P., Midlothian, VA
87. SOUTHWEST QUÉBEC (Panel 74)
54. NORTHEAST OHIO (Panel 73) 72. WESTERN WASHINGTON (Panel 73) André D., Montréal, QC
Timothy H., Jefferson, OH Crystal S., Sumner, WA
88. SOUTHEAST QUÉBEC (Panel 73)
55. NORTHWEST OHIO (Panel 74) 73. WEST VIRGINIA (Panel 73) Céline L., Drummondville, QC
Kimbrough P., Grand Rapids, OH Paul H.,
Shenandoah Junction, WV 89. NORTHEAST QUÉBEC (Panel 73)
56. SOUTHWEST OHIO (Panel 74) Gisele V., Hebertville, QC
74. N. WISCONSIN/
Warren G., Dayton, OH
UPPER PENN. MICHIGAN (Panel 74) 90. NORTHWEST QUÉBEC (Panel 74)
57. OKLAHOMA (Panel 73) Nicholas S.-S. Debbie L., Ottawa, ON
Chippewa Falls, WI
Ryan F., Coweta, OK
91. SASKATCHEWAN (Panel 73)
75. SOUTHERN WISCONSIN (Panel 73)
58. OREGON (Panel 74) Lori R., Saskatoon, SK
Peter W., Kansasville, WI
Penny H., Newberg, OR
92. WASHINGTON EAST (Panel 74)
76. WYOMING (Panel 74)
59. EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA (Panel 73) Lisa G., Libby, MT
Steve M., Gillette, WY
Peter B., Birdsboro, PA
93.CENTRAL CALIFORNIA (Panel 73)
77. PUERTO RICO (Panel 74)
60. WESTERN PENNSYLVANIA (Panel 73) Pablo H., Bakersfield, CA
Julio M., Arecibo, PR
Jon C., Canonsburg, PA
78. ALBERTA/NWT (Panel 74)
61. RHODE ISLAND (Panel 74)
Karen C., Calgary, AB
Tricia D., Saunderstown, RI

62. SOUTH CAROLINA (Panel 74)

Rick P., Clover, SC

156
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AAWS DIRECTORS GENERAL SERVICE OFFICE STAFF

Cathi C., chair, regional trustee Clinton M., director Eileen A. Racy J.
Vera F., director Carolyn W., general service trustee Karina C. Diana L.
Racy J., GSO staff member John W., director Patrick C. Misha Q.
Reilly K., regional trustee Robert W., GSO general manager Kelley C. Michael R.
Deborah K., general service trustee Irene D. Sandra W.
James H.
AA GRAPEVINE DIRECTORS
Paz P., chair, general service trustee Tom H., regional trustee GRAPEVINE STAFF
Teddy B-W., director Molly Oliver, Class A trustee Paola M., La Viña Editor
Morgan B., director Joyce S., regional trustee Jon W., Grapevine Editor in Chief
Chris C., publisher David S., general service trustee
Cindy F., director

Nonvoting Resources to the 74th General Service Conference

AA Grapevine/La Viña Publishing Department
Janet Bryant, Director of Operations David R., AAWS Publishing Director
Donna Chahalis, Controller Ames S., Executive Editor
Julia D., Digital Engagement Editor William G., Managing Editor
Jonathan Saltos, Production Manager Charlie D., Editorial Project Manager
Négine Wise, Executive Assistant Julisa Soriano, Senior Production Manager, Digital
AAWS Staff Services Department
Administration Services Nay Williams, Manager of Staff Services
Pamela P., Executive Assistant to the GM Nathalia Sande, Conference Staff Associate
Jacob Diaz, Administrative Coordinator to the GM Anny Ceri, Literature Staff Assistant
Archives Department Win Chen, Staff Coordinator Assistant
Michelle Mirza, Archivist Charlene Meade, Regional Forums Staff Assistant
April Hegner, Senior Archivist Ana Mejia-Andrade, P.I. Staff Assistant
Zoe Blecher-Cohen, Assistant Archivist Victor Navas, International Staff Assistant
Jaimie Fritz, Digital Archivist Marissa Sblendorio, 2025 IC Staff Assistant
Andrew Tomassi, Group Services Staff Assistant
Communications Services Department Rainer L., GSO Staff
Clorinda V., Director of Communication Services Nick S., GSO Staff
Tracey G., Senior Digital Strategist
Marc Bucaoto, Website Content Manager Technology Services Department
Julie Gonzalez, Senior Manager of Communications Lorna Graham, Senior Director of Technology Services
Tara Lafemina, Communications Assistant Mili Alma-Noyola, Business Systems Specialist
Samantha Nieto, Communications Specialist Pedro Gonzalez, Technical Support Coordinator
Daniel Perez, IT Support Technician
Finance Department
Paul Konigstein, Chief Financial Officer Legal, Licensing and Intellectual Property
Zenaida Medina, Controller Beverly Jones-King, Director
Josualdo Hernandez, Accounts Payable Associate Drew Deetz, Intellectual Property Administrator
Chelsy Matos, Accounts Receivable Associate Rosa Rodriguez, Senior Licensing Administrator
Yamilka Perez, Contributions associate ACMs
Steven San Inocencio, Staff Accountant Gerry C., CPC/TA
Hospitality Cesar F., Literature
Richard S., Chair of GSC Hospitality Committee Kirk H., Public Information
Sherry P., Co-Chair of GSC Hospitality Committee Tom P., CPC/TA
Gerry R., Literature
Human Resources Department
Dina F., Human Resources Director Consultant
Tara Bang, Human Resources Generalist Julio E.
Orjada Cinari, HR Coordinator Interpreters
Michelle Zhang, Human Resources Assistant Alexandre Boisvert, French interpreter
Alain Breton, French interpreter
Language Services
Luciana Maria Capurro, Spanish interpreter
Stéphanie Bozino-Routier, Director of Language Services
Stefan Jetchick, French interpreter
Hernán M., Spanish Translation and Editing Contractor
Andrée Lanoix, French interpreter
Clément Beshers, French Translator/Editor
Hernán M., Spanish interpreter
Juliette L., French Translation Managing Editor
Eduardo Rodriguez, Spanish Translator Trustees Emeriti
Terry B.
METS Department
Leonard B.
Sharon Vasquez, METS Manager
Gary G.
Rebekah Jimenez, METS Assistant
Attallah Sophas, METS Production Specialist Vendors
Mo Rai, DOTS Coordinator
Office Services
Cole Top, DOTS Coordinator
Melvin Samuels, Office Coordinator
Observers
Operations Department
Ranjan B., General secretary, GSO Great Britain
Malini Singh, Director of Operations
Jo F., Trustee Eastern Region, Great Britain
Margaret Matos, Member Services Manager
Eleonora C., Member Services Associate
Nathan K., Member Services Associate
Glendaliz Rivera, Front Desk Associate
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n Delegates Bid Farewell

The final order of business for the 74th General Service Conference were the farewells from the Panel 73 departing delegates
rotating out of their two-year term. Because the final night of the conference went late to 11:59pm with floor actions, the
farewells were held the following morning, starting at 8am on Saturday April 20th when the 48 rotating delegates took their
bingo cards to the microphone for the last time.
We haven’t enough space to capture all of the sharing, Jon C., Area 60, Western Pennsylvania, said, “Anything
but here is a sampling of the heartfelt goodbyes. that I said that caused personal injury let me know. I
don’t even agree with every decision I made but I know
Thomas G., Area 17, Hawaii said, “With the delegates I
together we made the best decisions for A.A.”
have the most differences with, I listen more, and I’ve
been given a different outlook to go back to Hawaii and Mary A., Area 14, North Florida, the 74th Conference
share my reports. I can be proud of what we did, and I delegate chair, described being “Grateful, amazed,
thank you all for treating me with love and tolerance.” and tired. Take good care of A.A. This is where service
becomes technicolor.”
Judy C., Area 85, Northwest Ontario, proclaimed that,
“This experience been breathtaking for me. It was dif- Sarah M., Area 10, Colorado, said, “It has been a plea-
ferent last year — and I get mad pretty easily — but for sure to serve. Past delegate friends said, ‘it’s just your
most part I love being part of the process.” turn, say what you need to say with love.’ She recalled
growing up in Katonah and going to the local A.A. meet-
Céline L., Area 88, Southeastern Quebec, proclaimed:
ing for health class, but never knowing that she grew up
“Delegates, you come here, and you get exhausted, and
near Stepping Stones.
you love it.”
Christopher M., Area 47, Central New York, said, “The
Mary E.-K., Area 11, Connecticut, expressed gratitude
last three years have been unbelievable, since I first
for hearing a Class A speaker at the January, 2024 board
attended as an alternate, though I still see the same con-
meeting and how hearing that story helped her get
cerns we are unwilling to address head on.”
through a night of a family emergency.
Eric L., Area 6, Northern Coastal California, stated,
Jake S., Area 42, Nevada, exclaimed: “Yo, Yo, Yo! A.A.
“Alcohol robbed me of my voice, I had a very low bot-
saved my life and General Service is a huge part of my
tom, and my home group made me GSR to get me out
recovery.”
of the way. I am so glad I got my voice back.”
Gisele V., Area 89, Northeast Quebec spoke with the aid
Kacie N., Area 40, Montana, reminded everyone that
of one of the many hard-working interpreters on site:
the commitment as a delegate continues to December
“I slept like a baby — I slept two hours, and I cried two
31, “so there is more opportunity to carry water for A.A.
hours. Conference is very tiring, but also very energiz-
I think of the triangle as a bucket and at the bottom of
ing.”
that bucket is a lot of pressure, a lot of water! And thank
John P., Area 71, Virginia said that he was “enervated, you to the trustees for not giving up on us.”
emptied out, and filled with love. Where does this hap-
Ryan F., Area 57, Oklahoma, after identifying himself
pen except here?”
at the microphone, said, “It’s striking that that’s the last
Douglas S., Area 5, Southern California said, “I used time I’ll say that in this place.”
to laugh that you were out of your mind thinking that
Richard (Rick) W., Area 65, Southeast Texas, passed
I could ever be a delegate. Bill W. wrote that it was
this advice on to the 74s — “Don’t leave anything
important for A.A.s to meet with the office and the staff
unsaid.”
and we are leaving this Conference in good hands with
the [Panel] 74s.” Crystal S., Area 72, Western Washington, mentioned, “I
feel I have not lived up to where we see ourselves five
Richard (Rick) M., Area 67, Northeast Texas said,
and ten years from now,” mentioning AA’s involvement
“I am extremely proud, we left it all on the field. You
with social media in particular.
have taught me to listen like I don’t have an opinion. On
one item we voted on, every person at the mic changed And finally, one gentleman who will remain anony-
my mind! To the 74s — savor every moment because mous, stated: “I’d like to make a floor motion! I’ve had
it goes by very fast!” And with that Rick was dinged by the 12th tradition on my heart, and I need to listen to
the timer bell. group conscience and ‘serve without distinction.’ Don’t
be afraid to go to the mic, but also don’t be afraid not
to go to the mic.”

158
 CONTENTS

Buses ready to take the delegates and other attendees

to visit Stepping Stones, the historical home of Bill and Lois W.
in Bedford Hills, New York, following the close of the Conference.

159
 Published by Alcoholics Anonymous World Services, Inc.
475 Riverside Drive, Room 1100, New York, New York 10115
(212) 870-3400• www.aa.org

M-23 30M – 8/24 (WR)