For Newcomers
New to AA?
Here are some things that we've found helpful:
Portland Area Meeting Schedule - Intergroup Guide to Portland Area meetings
District 15 Event Calendar for Milwaukie, Clackamas, West Linn, Oregon City, Canby, Molalla & surrounding areas - regular meetings are where we find hope, support, and the A.A. message of recovery.
Note that anyone is welcome at "open" meetings, while "closed" meetings are limited to those who want to stop drinking and stay sober.
Some helpful information from our national office:
"On Sponsorship" - a sponsor is a person who has worked the 12 Steps and is willing to guide you through them.
"Alcoholics Anonymous" - known as the "Big Book", it is the basic text of A.A.; essential reading for long term recovery, it explains A.A.'s view of what alcoholism is and our program of recovery.
Contact Us
Got a question? Need to talk with someone? Want someone to accompany you to your first meeting?
Contact Us Via Email, or call:
Portland AA Hotline: 503-223-8569 (*For Medical Emergencies please dial 911*)
Additional Reading
The A.A. Preamble - A brief explanation of what AA is and what it does.
How It Works - From Chapter 5 of the Big Book
The 12 Steps - The AA program of recovery in 12 Steps.
The 12 Traditions - The principles of how AA functions as a fellowship.
There is no charge for A.A. meetings, membership, or sponsorship; we do this because helping other alcoholics helps us in our recovery. No one will tell you that you're an alcoholic; that's a decision only you can make. You don't have to identify as an alcoholic to attend meetings or become a member - the only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking.
Everyone is welcome in A.A. regardless of age, race, gender, ethnic background, disability, or criminal record - the disease of alcoholism can strike anyone. All communications are completely confidential - "Anonymous" is half of our name.
Service Is The Secret
Most of us find that service work - helping out in a group, serving at the District, Intergroup, or Area levels - is key to long term sobriety. Here are some suggestions for Service Opportunities, whether you’re just getting started or have been around for a while.