“Supporting the AA Grapevine: A Vital Resource for Our Fellowship”
For decades, the AA Grapevine has served as the meeting in print for Alcoholics Anonymous.1 It’s a lifeline of shared experience, strength, and hope, connecting A.A. members across the globe. But this invaluable resource, which so many of us rely on, is in need of our support.
Grapevine, Inc. and its Spanish-language counterpart, La Viña, are self-supporting entities, separate from the A.A. General Service Office.2 They do not accept donations. Their sole source of income comes from subscriptions and the sale of their books and other materials.3 This means that unlike other A.A. entities that benefit from 7th Tradition contributions, the Grapevine’s survival depends entirely on the financial support it receives directly from us, its readers.
One of the most effective and impactful ways for an A.A. group to support the Grapevine is to purchase an annual group subscription. This simple act not only ensures the magazine’s financial stability but also provides a powerful tool for carrying the A.A. message.
A group subscription can be a cornerstone of a group’s service efforts. Here are some ways your group can put a subscription to work:
Share the Experience: Pass the monthly issue around the meeting. Reading a story aloud can be a great way to start a discussion, providing a different perspective or a moment of identification.
Welcome Newcomers: A fresh copy of the Grapevine is a wonderful gift for a newcomer. It can be a source of immediate connection and inspiration, offering them a glimpse into the diverse experiences of others in recovery.
Support Those Still Suffering: Keep a collection of older issues. These can be given to local detox units, jails, or rehabilitation facilities.4 For someone new to sobriety or still seeking a solution, a copy of the Grapevine can be a beacon of hope and a tangible link to the A.A. Fellowship.
Enhance Group Libraries: Many groups maintain a small library of A.A. literature. Adding the latest Grapevine to this collection ensures that members have access to a continuous stream of current recovery stories.
Grapevine-themed Meetings: Dedicate a meeting once a month to discussing an article from the latest issue. This can be a great way to introduce new ideas and different perspectives into your group’s dialogue.
A group subscription to the A.A. Grapevine is more than just a purchase; it’s an investment in our collective sobriety and a testament to our commitment to carrying the A.A. message. By subscribing, your group becomes an active participant in ensuring that this vital resource continues to be available for all who need it, now and in the future.
Let’s support the magazine that has supported so many of us. Consider a group subscription today, and help keep the meeting in print alive.
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