Please call:   Jim C - 604-859-6531

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(From The AA Service Manual 2011 - 2012 Edition
Pages S41 & S42)
Working with Local Intergroups and Central Offices

Traditionally, general service committees and intergroup/central offices have performed different functions. Intergroups (central offices) provide local services; general service (district) committees maintain the link between AA groups and the AA General Service Board by means of the Conference. So these two separate but vital service structures coexist in many areas in mutual cooperation and harmony.
     At the time the Conference was started, there were already well-established intergroup/central offices in several large cities, providing services to local AA groups and members. Today, there are many more intergroup/central offices throughout the U.S. and Canada, supported by the AA groups in the communities they serve. Each group elects an intergroup representative to attend intergroup/central office meetings.

           These Intergroups/central offices provide   
           such services as:
           1. Receiving, arranging and following  up
               on Twelve Step calls.
           2. Answering inquiries about AA.
           3. Establishing local Public Information  
               Committees.
           4. Maintain information about local   
               hospitals and recovery facilities for
               alcoholics.
           5. Publishing local AA Meeting Lists.
           6. Providing a newsletter.
           7. Ordering, selling and distributing 
               AA Conference-approved literature.

   
     In contrast, the Conference structure (including the District Committee) is the method through which all AA groups in an area can provide the most effective communication within the area and between the groups and the General Service Board and GSO on matters of policy that effect AAas a whole. These include policy on: Conference-approved literature, AA public information, AA cooperation with the professional community, AA activity in treatment and correctional facilities, AA finances, the AA Grapevine and the election of trustees to the General Sevice Board.
     Many areas find that a liason between the central office/intergroup and the area committee is very helpful in maintaining good relations and communication. In some areas the liason has a vote at the assembly; in others, a voice but no vote.
     More information on working together is available through GSO and in the pamphlets "The AA Group" and "Self-Support: Where Money and Spirituality Mix," as well as in the guidelines on Intergroups/Central offices