How to Build an AA Network

One reason that many alcoholics have trouble staying away from a drink is because they tend to stay isolated. Without supportive and understanding friends, it is nearly impossible to fight the obsession and compulsion that typify the disease of alcoholism. While AA meetings provide a modicum of fellowship, the network of contacts that you develop from those meetings will become the rock upon which you can lean.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Show up early at Alcoholics Anonymous meetings to meet people. Friendly and open folks are usually there early and are used to greeting strangers. Begin conversations which can lead to further contact.
2. Tell people you are new and are looking for contacts. They will introduce you to others as they arrive.
3. Join a homegroup. A homegroup is a weekly AA meeting to which you commit to attend and help with opening, making coffee and other needs as they arise. Ask the chairperson after the meeting how to join the group.
4. Share during the meeting. Tell the group in the sanctity that is the AA meeting itself that you would like to meet some friends and develop a network. Others will come up to you after the meeting and offer their phone numbers.
5. Invite people to your home or to a coffee shop after the meeting. To make a friend, sometimes you must be a friend.
6. Use the telephone every day and network. Develop a habit of calling people who gave you their numbers at AA meetings. Return calls promptly when they call you.
7. Stay late after meetings and help clean up. Camaraderie develops among people who do service together. Volunteer when announcements are made for people to help with various projects.