Oklahoma City Al-Anon Family Information Services

The secret to long-term recovery is service. Some members are leery of the word service; it sounds like a boring chore and “heaven knows, I’ve got enough of that!” It’s easy to work for your own piece of serenity, but more difficult to remember that Al-Anon would not be here today if thousands of people before you hadn’t given back to the program. It is Step Twelve in action that keeps us strong personally, and preserves the program of Al-Anon Family Groups worldwide.

On a personal level, service moves you beyond the 12 Steps of personal recovery, while applying the 12 Traditions and 12 Concepts  to your family, at work, and in the community…truly, “in all our affairs.”

There are many ways to give back, and there are no rules – each individual may give back in different ways and at different times, depending on their personal situation. Giving back can involve time, effort, utilizing a specific talent or skill, or a financial contribution. Any commitment to “give back” to Al-Anon is rewarded immediately with a greater sense of belonging, and in the end we receive far more than we can ever give.

Some tools to further your understanding of service in recovery:

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Giving Back to your Group...

 

At the group level, service opportunities abound.

Here are some of the ways a Group member can give back:

       

• Arrive early to help set up the meeting

• Make coffee/serve coffee

• Welcome Newcomers

• Chair a meeting

• Share your experience, strength, and hope

• Attend the group business and group conscience meetings (Your Input into the Group is very important)  

• Help clean up after the meeting

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More formal group duties include elected  positions such as 

• Group Representative (GR)

• Alternate GR 

• Treasurer and Secretary 

Some groups may have additional needs to cover, such as monitoring literature supplies or coordinating childcare

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Your home group is a great place to start on your journey of giving back!