Newcomer Information

Ever since May 12, 1935 when a New York Stockbroker was in the lobby of a hotel, hearing the crowd in the hotel bar, the beginning of a new idea was about to be born.  An idea that would save the lives of countless current and future alcoholics!  That Stockbrokers name was Bill Wilson.  The crowd in the bar was calling his name, and his desire to drink was strong.  He knew that if he was to avoid another drink that from the knowledge he had gained from his old friend Ebby Thacher (a member of the Oxford Group) he needed to take action immediately.  He headed for a phone booth and started to call multiple churches looking for anyone to hook up with so he could discuss his situation.  Eventually he would wind up at the home of Robert Holbrook Smith(Dr. Bob as he would become to be known).  

Dr. Bob and Bill W. would become the best of friends, and at the moment they met, they had no idea what was about to take place!  The birth of Alcoholics Anonymous.  Thus began the importance of reaching out to other alcoholics, in order to stay sober themselves.  This is why you are the most important person at our meetings!

The painting above is a famous painting, painted by Robert M. and is called “The Man on the Bed”.  The person on the bed is Bill D.  the 3rd member of Alcoholics Anonymous.  After his chance meeting with Dr. Bob and Bill W., Bill D. never drank again!

This page is dedicated to you, the AA Newcomer, and it is our hope and prayer that you find recovery and to help you and to help us, below is some information to assist you in your new journey, where you may begin life as a sober recovering alcoholic!  God Bless you and we hope to see you in our rooms soon!

Alcoholics Anonymous World Services
Alcoholics Anonymous Intergroup – AA Meetings Minneapolis

Below is some information compiled by the members of the The Gratitude Group: