How To

How to Make an AA Twelfth-Step Call

By sharoni, eHow Member Rating
Rate: (2 Ratings)

According to the Big Book, "frequent contact with newcomers is the bright spot of our lives." Twelfth-Step calls are an important part of carrying the AA message. Many think the goal of a Twelfth-Step call is to get another to stop drinking, but the purpose really is to help you.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Just you
  1. Step 1

    Put your phone number on as many group lists as possible. Also give your number to the local intergroup office as being available for Twelfth Step work.

  2. Step 2

    When you are contacted for a Twelfth Step call, either by a drinker directly or indirectly, get as much information about the person as you can. Find out if they are currently drunk and potentially dangerous, how much they know about the program already, and if they really want someone to come talk to them if you were contacted indirectly. If they are drunk but not violent and want to talk, this may be a good time to come visit them.

  3. Step 3

    Find another AA to go with you. If this is your first Twelfth Step call, you should bring your sponsor or someone who has more experience than you. If you have a good deal of time and feel comfortable, you could also bring a sponsee.

  4. Step 4

    It is usually best to meet before you get to your prospect and ride together. This gives you time to decide how to proceed. Make sure you bring an extra Big Book and Where and When (or meeting list) to give away.

  5. Step 5

    Go in together on the Twelfth Step call. Introduce yourselves as Alcoholics who are now sober. Give him or her time to tell their story. Tell a little a bit of yours and offer a solution. Give them a copy of the Big Book and Where and When. Leave your phone number for them to contact if they need support. Leave it at that.

  6. Step 6

    You might want to call once afterwards and check on your prospect. Do not constantly call or come visit. AA is based on attraction. Your prospect may not be ready yet but will know where to turn when they do need help.

Tips & Warnings
  • Never visit a drunk when they are violent or do not want to talk. There is no need to endanger yourselves to help someone. Never go alone to visit someone still drinking.
  • Make sure you have privacy when talking. You can talk to the family afterwards, but they should not be there in the initial meeting as it may keep the drinker from being honest.
  • Know the difference between helping and being taken advantage of. You should never be anyone's ATM, chauffeur, or reason for getting sober.
  • Don't be disappointed when the prospect from your Twelfth Step call doesn't get or stay sober. You have planted the seed for them to get help later.

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