Helping hands: AA program meant for problem drinker

Name of program: Alcoholics Anonymous, 624-1442.

What it does: This program for problem drinkers is, as the name suggests, completely anonymous – no last names are used.

“We talk about being in recovery,” said Rosemary, manager of the central office bookstore. She stressed that newcomers are the most important people at the meetings, and the group meets and shares stories.

Those stories aren’t happy ones, so the group also shares how their lives have changed since getting sober.

Who runs it: AA is an independent organization. There is a head office in New York that sends the group literature, but the group runs itself.

How to get help: Many times friends or relatives may call AA to get help for someone close to them.

“It’s sad, but we can’t do anything,” said Rosemary. The drinker must be the one to make the call and decide that he or she needs help.

Anyone wishing to get help for themselves from Alcoholics Anonymous may call the main office.

When someone calls for help, they will get a meeting schedule. They are encouraged to come and look around at a few meetings and find another member they are comfortable with to be a sponsor.

The sponsor will help the newcomer learn the 12 steps to sobriety.

Typical client: According to Rosemary, there is no typical person who attends meetings. There is no race, creed, color, religion or socioeconomic class that is affected more than others.

How to give help: Alcoholics Anonymous can take donations only from members.