Accessibility challenges apply to all alcoholics who have difficulties participating in Alcoholics Anonymous, whether those are mental, physical, geographic, cultural, or other factors that vary among people. Some of these alcoholics may experience barriers to accessing the A.A. message, including the literature, meetings, Twelve Step work, and the service structure. For the purpose of these guidelines in defining the accessibility issues that many alcoholics face, we refer primarily to persons who are blind or and/or deaf, have hearing and/or vision loss, those who are housebound or chronically ill, those who are living with the effects of brain injury or stroke, and many others who may have various kinds of abilities. Barriers to the message of Alcoholics Anonymous are not always readily evident. (from A.A. Guidelines)
Mission Statement
The Accessibility Committee gathers information, provides assistance and guidance to groups and districts within the established guidelines provided by our General Service Office. It will raise awareness and share solutions for reaching the still suffering alcoholics who run into complications due to assistance needs and other difficulties mentioned in our committee description.
How we do it
- Host quarterly meetings to connect District Chairs, DCM’s and any other interested members to solve any accessibility issues that groups, districts, or the area might have.
- Reach out to districts and groups to inform them of the different accessibility issues faced by members, and about the importance of having an accessibility chair to meet these needs.
- Works closely with the Language Steering committee to ensure people of our area have access to AA regardless of language, while following the motions and guidance of the area.
- Supports the Remote Communities subcommittee in their outreach to underserved and not yet contacted communities in our area.
- Work with the other standing committees to meet the accessibility needs of the groups and institutions they serve.
- Be a point of contact for any members that have accessibility questions or concerns.
Contact us at accessibility@area72aa.org