As a General Service Representative (GSR), you are the primary link between your home group and the Fellowship as a whole. Your post-conference report is a vital channel for news, information, and ideas. Following the Area 53 Mini-Conference, your goal is to synthesize the experience and outcomes into a format that keeps your group informed and connected.
Conference Advisory Actions: Report on specific policy changes or items of importance approved by a two-thirds majority. These represent the "informed group conscience" of A.A.
Committee Considerations: Share items discussed by committees that did not result in a formal recommendation. These often highlight emerging trends or suggestions for future action.
Voting Results: When discussing recommendations, include the "for" and "against" counts. This transparency provides the group with a clear sense of the Fellowship's stance on a given issue.
The Delegateโs Report: Summarize key points from the Area 53 Delegateโs report, focusing on their perspective on the current challenges and successes facing A.A. worldwide.
GSO and General Service Board Updates: Include highlights from GSO staff or Regional Trustees regarding the health, growth, and organizational stability of the Fellowship.
The "Group Conscience" in Action: Explain how the collective area conscience was formed during committee sessions and how it informed the Delegateโs ultimate vote at the General Service Conference in New York.
Committee Highlights: Briefly detail discussions from specific committees such as Literature, Corrections, Public Information, or Treatment and Accessibilities.
Understanding the Agenda: Help your group understand the "language" of the agenda. Explain the difference between items meant for a vote ("Consider") and those meant for general exploration ("Discuss" or "Review").
Seventh Tradition and Self-Support: Provide updates on how contributions are utilized for Twelfth Step services and the overall financial health of the General Service Board.
Literature and Digital Tools: Inform the group about new formats (e-books, audiobooks), new pamphlets, and updates to technology like the Meeting Guide app.
Upcoming Events: List dates for future assemblies, workshops, or regional forums.
The "Why" of Service: Conclude by reminding the group of the spiritual purpose of the conference: to ensure that A.A. remains a "permanent haven" for the alcoholic who still stumbles in the darkness.
Format: Your report can be oral, written, or both. Distributing printed summaries (often provided by the Delegate) allows members to review details at their own pace.
Venue: Present your report during the group's business meeting. If your group prefers, you can give a very brief summary during the regular announcements with a full copy available on the literature table.
Length: Be concise. Focus on items that directly affect your groupโs unity, health, or ability to carry the message.
Reliable Sources: Use the General Service Conference Final Report, Box 4-5-9, and the Quarterly Report of the General Service Board to ensure your information is accurate.