GSRs
Who can become a GSR? Any group member who has two or three years continuous sobriety may volunteer. However if there is no one with this period of sobriety who is willing to take this position, then the most qualified person available can be voted in by the group.
How will me becoming a GSR help the still-suffering alcoholic? GSRs are the vital link between groups and the local and national services. The local telephone help line, Twelfth Step list, Where-to-Finds and the publishing of AA literature, for example, all need to be organised. Without the GSRs this structure would collapse and this would be of no help to the newcomer.
How will being a GSR help me? An increase in self-confidence, an ability to handle responsibility, greater humility, a much wider circle of friends, improved organisational skills, a better perspective of the bigger AA picture, a feeling of usefulness and a greatly enhanced recovery are all benefits that past GSRs have mentioned.
How will being a GSR help my group? In the same way an individual alcoholic grows, learning to take part in the wider world, so the AA group grows spiritually by becoming involved in the wider circle of the Fellowship. Your group can and should have a voice in the running of the local and national services that continue to attract newcomers. It will also benefit from the greater level of unity with other groups by participating in this service.
How do I become a GSR? If you are interested, or the call is made for volunteers, consult your sponsor or experienced members of your group. They will certainly know if you are ready for this service position.
Welcome pack for GSRs - click on the title for more information
The Structure of AA in Great Britain
The Services of AA in Great Britain
The pot: where AA money and spirituality mix
Pamphlets available from the AA shop