What is AA?
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is a support group designed to assist individuals struggling with alcohol addiction. It offers a free, community-driven program available in cities across the United States, including https://www.wfmh.org/aa/rhode-island in Rhode Island, USA.
AA operates through regular group meetings held throughout Rhode Island, where members share experiences, strength, and hope to support one another’s recovery journey.
Providence – Central Congregational Church
Address: 296 Angell Street, Providence, RI 02906
Meeting Time: Tuesdays, 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Meeting Details: This open discussion meeting encourages newcomers and experienced members alike to share their experiences in a supportive environment. It focuses on mutual support and practical strategies for maintaining sobriety.
Warwick – St. John’s Episcopal Church
Address: 51 Washington Street, Warwick, RI 02888
Meeting Time: Fridays, 6:00 PM – 7:15 PM
Meeting Details: A closed men’s meeting using the 12 Steps and 12 Traditions format. This session provides a structured approach focusing on personal accountability and group fellowship within a men-only community.
East Providence – Riverside Congregational Church
Address: 15 Oak Avenue, East Providence, RI 02914
Meeting Time: Thursdays, 7:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Meeting Details: This open English discussion meeting allows attendees of any experience level to participate freely, emphasizing sharing personal stories and learning from others’ recovery techniques.
The 12 Steps of AA
- We admitted we were powerless over alcohol—that our lives had become unmanageable. Accepting powerlessness is the first step toward recovery, encouraging members to acknowledge their need for help.
- Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity. This step introduces spiritual faith, motivating members to seek strength beyond themselves.
- Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood Him. It encourages surrender and trust in a higher power for guidance.
- Made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves. Members honestly evaluate their behavior and character to understand the impact of their addiction.
- Admitted to God, to ourselves, and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs. Openness and honesty are emphasized to build accountability and foster trust.
- Were entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character. Readiness for change is essential in removing negative patterns.
- Humbly asked Him to remove our shortcomings. Members seek spiritual support in overcoming their flaws.
- Made a list of all persons we had harmed, and became willing to make amends to them all. This step identifies those impacted by one’s behavior as a foundation for reconciliation.
- Made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others. Taking responsibility through amends helps heal relationships and restore personal integrity.
- Continued to take personal inventory and when we were wrong promptly admitted it. Ongoing self-examination promotes sustained sobriety and humility.
- Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understood Him. This step nurtures spiritual growth and peace of mind.
- Having had a spiritual awakening as the result of these steps, we tried to carry this message to alcoholics, and to practice these principles in all our affairs. Members are encouraged to support others and live ethically as a commitment to recovery.
Getting Started with AA in Rhode Island, USA
The best way to find local AA meetings in Rhode Island is by visiting wfmh.org. This site offers a comprehensive and up-to-date directory of meetings both in-person and online, allowing individuals to locate accessible options in their area.
Most locations in Rhode Island offer both in-person and virtual meetings, providing flexible attendance options for different needs and comfort levels.
Attending Your First Local AA Meeting
In Rhode Island, AA meetings come in two main types: open and closed. Open meetings welcome anyone interested in learning about AA or supporting someone with alcohol addiction, while closed meetings are reserved specifically for those who identify as having a drinking problem.
| Meeting Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Open Meeting | Allows anyone to attend, including alcoholics, non-alcoholics, and those curious about AA. Focus is on education, sharing, and support. |
| Closed Meeting | Restricted to individuals who identify as having a problem with drinking. It provides a more confidential environment fostering openness among members. |
- Arrive early to your first meeting and introduce yourself as a new local member to the group facilitator or secretary.
- You may share your experiences if you feel comfortable doing so; however, sharing is encouraged but not required.
- Members often receive welcome keychain tags at their first meeting as symbols of commitment to sobriety.
These keychain tags commonly represent sobriety milestones:
- 30 days: Celebrates the first month of sustained sobriety, encouraging continuation of recovery efforts.
- 60 days: Marks two months free from alcohol, highlighting the growing strength of commitment.
- 1 year: An important milestone symbolizing long-term sobriety and dedication to the AA path.