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How AA got started.
International AA Convention 1950
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is the original Twelve-Step program for recovery from alcoholism. It introduced the groundbreaking concept that individuals struggling with an affliction could help others with the same affliction, Through mutual support and helping the still suffering alcoholic they could, in turn, achieve long-term sobriety.
Since its inception, millions of alcoholics have found hope and sobriety in AA’s rooms, discovering that recovery is possible, even from seemingly hopeless condition of mind and body.
“The tremendous fact for every one of us is that we have discovered a common solution. We have a way out on which we can absolutely agree, and upon which we can join in brotherly and harmonious action. This is the great news this book carries to those who suffer from alcoholism.” pg. 17, Alcoholics Anonymous
The journey to create AA began with its two founders, Bill W. and Dr. Bob S. Both had spent years searching for a way to maintain sobriety. Bill W. faced numerous battles with alcohol, enduring periods of sobriety followed by relapse. After achieving wealth and recognition, he found himself losing everything to his addiction. Despite his relentless efforts to regain control, it wasn’t until he met others who had embraced the idea of seeking help that he began to find a path forward.
Dr. Bob S. had his own long struggle with alcoholism, which began during his college years. After losing control, he spent decades in and out of sanitariums and institutions, searching for relief. In 1935, a pivotal meeting between Bill and Dr. Bob transformed both their lives. Together, they learned not only to maintain their sobriety but also to help others break free from the obsession with alcohol.
This collaboration laid the foundation for Alcoholics Anonymous, a community dedicated to mutual support and recovery.
The AA Organization
The founders of AA began as a community of alcoholics dedicated to helping one another achieve sobriety and recovery. They quickly recognized that their recovery program had the potential to benefit alcoholics worldwide. As they established the organization, they understood that outside funding could jeopardize both the program that had transformed their lives and the recovery community they cherished. To preserve the integrity and mission of AA, they committed to making it self-supporting, believing that by declining outside contributions, they could strengthen the organization and stay true to their primary purpose.
The primary purpose of AA is to help the still suffering alcoholic.
AA is based on the ideas of our altruism.