Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is the world’s largest and most well-known mutual aid fellowship for people recovering from alcohol addiction. Founded in 1935 by Bill Wilson and Dr. Bob Smith in Akron, Ohio, AA has grown to include over 2 million members across 180 countries.
How AA Works
AA operates on a simple premise: people who share the same problem can help each other achieve and maintain sobriety. There are no dues, fees, or membership requirements — the only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. Meetings are held in churches, community centers, hospitals, and online.
The foundation of AA is the Twelve Steps, a set of guiding principles for recovery that encourage members to admit powerlessness over alcohol, seek help from a Higher Power (as they understand it), take a moral inventory, make amends, and help others.
Types of AA Meetings
Open meetings welcome anyone — people in recovery, family members, students, and professionals. Closed meetings are reserved for those who identify as having a desire to stop drinking. Common meeting formats include:
- Speaker meetings — one or more members share their experience, strength, and hope
- Discussion meetings — a topic is introduced and members share
- Big Book study — reading and discussing the AA Big Book
- Step study — working through the Twelve Steps together
Finding AA Meetings
You can search for AA meetings in your area using our directory, or visit the official AA Meeting Finder. Most areas have meetings available every day of the week, often multiple times per day.
What to Expect at Your First Meeting
You don’t need to speak, share, or identify yourself. Many first-time attendees simply listen. Most meetings last about an hour, and refreshments like coffee are usually available. Anonymity is paramount — what is shared in the meeting stays in the meeting.
If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol, Red Door Recovery Network offers a comprehensive directory of treatment providers and recovery support services across the country.
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Whether you’re looking for treatment providers, community meetings, peer support, or harm reduction services, Red Door Recovery Network can help. All services are free to search and access.
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