Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) does not have a single "leader" in the traditional sense. Instead, the organization operates on principles of shared responsibility and service, with various members taking on temporary service positions to ensure groups function smoothly.
Understanding AA's Group Structure and Service Positions
AA's structure is intentionally non-hierarchical, emphasizing equality among members and discouraging the concentration of power in any single individual. This reflects AA's traditions, which prioritize principles over personalities.
Instead of a leader, a typical AA group may have several key service positions, each with specific duties crucial to the group's operation and connection to the wider AA fellowship. These roles are temporary, and members rotate through them, fostering a sense of collective responsibility and service.
Key Service Positions in an AA Group
Members volunteer for these roles to serve their fellow members and the group as a whole.
| Service Position | Primary Responsibilities |
|---|---|
| Chairperson | Facilitates meetings, ensuring they run according to tradition. |
| Secretary | Manages group records, communications, and announcements. |
| Treasurer | Handles group funds, collects contributions, and pays expenses. |
| General Service Representative (GSR) | Acts as a vital link between the group and the wider AA structure, representing the group at district and area meetings. |
| Program Committee | Organizes meeting topics, secures speakers, and plans events. |
| Food Committee | Manages refreshments or meals for group gatherings, if applicable. |
These roles highlight the decentralized and democratic nature of AA, where service is a rotating duty rather than a position of authority. This structure helps ensure that no individual gains undue influence and that the focus remains on the primary purpose of helping alcoholics achieve sobriety.
For more detailed information on AA's structure and how it operates, you can visit the official Alcoholics Anonymous website: aa.org.
