About Alcoholics Anonymous
Learn about the purpose, history, and principles of Alcoholics Anonymous and how A.A. helps people find recovery.
Our Primary Purpose
Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of people who share their experience, strength, and hope with one another to recover from alcoholism and help others achieve sobriety.
A.A.'s primary purpose is to stay sober and help other alcoholics achieve sobriety.
Since its founding in 1935, A.A. has grown into a worldwide fellowship. Through regular meetings, mutual support, and the Twelve Steps, members share their experiences and support one another in recovery.
How A.A. Works
A.A. is based on the idea that people who have experienced problems with alcohol can help one another through shared experience and mutual support.
Members attend meetings, share their experiences, and work toward recovery at their own pace. Many members follow A.A.'s Twelve Steps and work with a sponsor—another member who offers guidance based on personal experience.
A.A. is not affiliated with any religion, political organization, or institution. Members are free to develop their own understanding of a Higher Power, and people of all beliefs are welcome.
There are no membership dues or fees, and participation is voluntary.
The Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions
The Twelve Steps provide a suggested program of personal recovery. They encourage self-reflection, personal responsibility, making amends, and helping others.
The Twelve Traditions are guiding principles that help A.A. groups remain united and focused on their primary purpose. They emphasize anonymity, group independence, and service.
Together, the Steps and Traditions form the foundation of Alcoholics Anonymous.
Learn more: Visit Alcoholics Anonymous World Services for official A.A. literature and information about the Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions.