An important moment in my own recovery was when I was presented with a pocket-sized version of Alcoholics Anonymous, some prayers, and a list of phone numbers to call if I needed support. This was the “newcomers kit” I received at the Bellevue Alano Club. I still have that mini Big Book (a jumbo-shrimp-like oxymoron) and it’s sitting on my desk as I type this.
Not every group has newcomer kits. They can get expensive for a small group. Management of them might fall below the other priorities of keeping a group running. Then there are virtual meetings, a fantastic option, but mailing out newcomer packets isn’t practical.
Fortunately, everything I received in my newcomer kit (and more) is available online. Here’s a list to which you can direct the newcomer. Supplement it with your group’s contact information.
A Newcomer Asks – This pamphlet, published by AA covers some of the basic questions from newcomers with the answers the AA organization has found helpful.
Frequently Asked Questions About AA – Similar to the prior pamphlet but with more questions and more extensive answers.
The Fourth Edition of Alcoholics Anonymous – Each section of the book is broken out into a separate, downloadable file which can be read on a phone or other device. All of the personal stories for the Fourth Edition are included, as well.
The Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions – Ready to read more specifically about the steps and traditions of the program? Here you go. Each chapter is a separate download.
The SnovalleyAA meeting guide and the AA Meeting Guide app download – The meeting guide on this site has great information about meetings in the greater Snoqualmie Valley. With the growing use of online meetings and the return of travel, the AA meeting guide application will provide a broader view of what’s out there with a little less information on each meeting.
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