The GSR “may be the most important job in AA. By choosing its most qualified man or woman as GSR, a group helps secure its own future – and the future of AA as a whole.” — Bill W.

So you’ve been elected GSR–now what?

As GSR, it’s your job to link your group with A.A. as a whole. The GSR represents to the group at the district and area levels, bringing the group’s thoughts, news, and problems to the district committee members and to the delegate, who then pass them on to the conference. In return, the GSR brings back to the group the information and remedies that affect A.A. unity, health, and growth. To the extent that a GSR keeps the group informed, and expresses the group conscience, only then can the conference be assured it is acting for A.A. as a whole.

Responsibilities of the GSR include:

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• Serving a 2 year term, often beginning on January 1.
• Attending the district meetings with other GSRs and DCMs on the 3rd Monday of each month  at 7:00 pm;  Unity Center of Cedar Rapids, 3791 Blairs Ferry Rd NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
• Attending the Spring and Fall assemblies.
• Being a voting member at their district meetings and area assemblies.
• Serving on special committees as a bonus of being a GSR.
• Becoming knowledgeable about AA material available from GSO.
• Learning everything you can about the 12 Traditions and 12 Concepts and becoming familiar with the Service Manual.

Feeling overwhelmed? Service Sponsors can help!

The same impulse that drives some new people to try to “do A.A.” alone drives some new GSRs to try to “do general service” alone. There’s no reason to. In fact, there’s every reason not to. As rewarding and enjoyable as general service can be, you might find yourself feeling overwhelmed at times. A service sponsor can make the difference between struggling in your service position and feeling a sense of purpose and accomplishment (and having some fun along the way!). A service sponsor is there to answer your questions about your responsibilities, the structure of general service, the Twelve Traditions and Twelve Concepts and how to apply them, and making reports to your group. They can share experiences on managing time and expectations. Simply put, the service sponsor is there to help.

Click here to learn more about working with a service sponsor.