Secretaries

The Group Secretary – Responsibilities And Additional Information

1. The Secretary insures that the meeting is opened, conducted and concluded in accordance with the Twelve Traditions of Alcoholics Anonymous. Other responsibilities may include:
   1. Preparing the meeting place (and refreshments).
   2. Arranging for and introducing the leader.
   3. Welcoming visitors and newcomers.
   4. Maintaining a meeting atmosphere.
   5. Managing the contributions in the absence of the Treasurer.
   6. Providing A.A. approved literature.
   7. Attending Intergroup & General Service functions in the absence of an Intergroup Rep or GSR
      
2. Start the meeting on time and close on time
3. The communications from Intergroup and District 11 and other A.A. announcements are important. Please allow time for these at each meeting. A Steering Committee or Business Meeting held monthly prior to the regularly scheduled meeting is very helpful (more about this later).
4. No individual, drunk or sober, should be permitted to interrupt repeatedly or otherwise disturb the meeting. Anyone who tends to monopolize the discussion should be tactfully discouraged, perhaps by interrupting gently and saying “Thank you – to allow everyone a chance to speak, does someone else also want to share?” or “It sounds as if it would be beneficial if you stayed after the meeting to meet and talk with some of the men/women in our group”, and going on to the next person. This also applies if someone, especially a newcomer, seems to be disclosing information that he/she may later regret having shared with the whole group. Part of our job is to protect the newcomer.
5. Have A.A. books and literature available. Conference approved A.A. books, pamphlets and literature are available from your local Intergroup.