The orientation guidelines are considered vital to the functioning of the Institutions Committee. These are considered best practices when our volunteers enter the institutions we serve.
Guidelines
- No foul language or opinions on outside issues that could prejudice patients against our recovery message.
- Patients are at a vulnerable stage and predatory behavior such as inappropriate contact, pictures etc. may result in a permanent ban.
- Contact the H&I coordinator in the event of a schedule change.
- Focus the discussion on the AA program and recovery issues.
- Abide by all facility rules and regulations
- You may bring AA affiliated friends and sponsees unless it’s against facility rules.
- Dress appropriately, avoid provocative attire or clothing branded with alcohol/politics.
- Conduct meetings in an orderly manner and don’t go into areas of the facility you don’t need to be.
- Do not allow your phone to be used by patients for any purpose.
- Do not bring contraband into the facility for distribution to the clients.
- Do not advertise treatment centers or other institutions while speaking at a facility.
Please remember that each of us represents the face of AA. How we present and conduct ourselves reflects on all members of this Committee, Intergroup and Alcoholics Anonymous as a whole.
Qualifications
- 1 year of suggested continuous sobriety for chairpersons; exceptions can be made (Bill W. had ~5 months when he began carrying the message).
- 6 months of suggested continuous sobriety for speakers.