Digital communication was unforeseen when the Twelve Traditions were written. It is important to consider how the use of electronic media might impact our own or anyone else’s anonymity as we recover and help to carry the message of recovery offered by the Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions of Overeaters Anonymous. These guidelines build on our Fellowship’s experience and offer solid suggestions on the importance of maintaining our personal anonymity and the anonymity of OA members in the virtual world.
Pertinent OA Literature and Policies
Traditions
Tradition Eleven: Our public relations policy is based on attraction rather than promotion; we need always maintain personal anonymity at the level of press, radio, films, television and other public media of communication.
Tradition Eleven addresses the need for members to be anonymous outside the Fellowship at the level of public media. By following this Tradition, we guard against the assumption that any one person’s recovery represents OA as a whole. We also guard against the temptation for an individual to seek public recognition. Members who ignore our Eleventh Tradition can cause damage to OA’s spirit of fellowship, which is essential to our personal healing. Such breaks of anonymity may bring the OA name before the public, but they can also bring jealousy and competition for publicity and financial rewards. We must be willing to surrender our need for recognition to protect our recovery and OA as a whole.
AA’s Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions cautions, “At this altitude [public], anonymity—100 percent anonymity—was the only possible answer. Here, principles would have to come before personalities, without exception” (p. 187).
Tradition Twelve: Anonymity is the spiritual foundation of all these traditions, ever reminding us to place principles before personalities.
Within the OA Fellowship, members have the right to decide for themselves what they reveal. At the same time, we share a responsibility to guard the anonymity of our fellow members.
Overeaters Anonymous Statement on Public and Social Media Policy
While Overeaters Anonymous has no opinion on outside issues, including social media, the delegates of the 2019 World Service Business Conference (WBSC) recommend that any OA member, group, or service body using social media for OA public information and public awareness maintain the personal anonymity of OA members.
Members of Overeaters Anonymous are anonymous. The Fellowship is not. Members of Overeaters Anonymous are responsible for maintaining their anonymity and respecting the anonymity of other OA members. When attending an OA meeting, whether face-to-face or virtual, members are encouraged to seek appropriate means to protect their own anonymity and that of fellow members.
All registered virtual meetings shall inform members that their anonymity is not fully protected when attending a virtual meeting.
(WSBC Policy 2011a, amended 2016 and 2019)
Standards for Various Forms of Digital Media
We need to use caution in OA-related emails. We are publishing at the public level when we post on social media or blog. What we send or post may easily be seen, even repeated, by others within and outside the Fellowship. When we break our anonymity in digital media, we may inadvertently break the anonymity of others. Others may rightly or wrongly assume that our “virtual friends” are OA members.
Email
Electronic mail is a method of exchanging digital messages.
Avoid the use of your full name as a part of your email address.
Avoid the use of your business email address. It implies affiliation with an outside interest.
Service Email Correspondence WITHIN the Fellowship
It is advisable to set up a second email address for OA correspondence. If a service body has ongoing service positions that use email, we may create email accounts for the positions, such as chair@servicebody or newsletter@servicebody. Accounts can then be passed on to the next person filling that position simply by changing the forwarding information.
Many service providers allow one email address to be linked to another for convenience, so managing email is simple. Email can be forwarded from the service body account to our personal account. We can then see all of our email without having to log into a second account, unless we need to send a reply.
When sending service body correspondence to multiple members at once, it is important to maintain their anonymity. Use the blind carbon copy (BCC) line or create a distribution group or list with a meaningful title. Don’t use program words, such as “Twelve Step,” in the title, which might compromise anonymity when the message shows up in the receiver’s email in-box. For help in finding the BCC feature or in creating a distribution list, check the email provider’s instructions.
Service Email Correspondence OUTSIDE the Fellowship
It is also a good idea to have an email address that reflects our service position if we have responsibilities that require us to contact professionals or members of the media. It is appropriate to use our full name in such correspondence. This is the exception; we use our full name as this is the standard when conducting business, including when contacting the media and public information contacts. If we are then asked for an interview as a result of this correspondence, it is our responsibility to inform/educate the person doing the interview of our anonymity policy and that no last names or pictures may be used. For more suggestions and resources for contacting the media about OA, find the Public Information and Professional Outreach (PIPO) Resource List on the OA website (oa.org/document-library under “Public Information”).
Personal Email Correspondence and Contact Lists
When we add a member’s name to our personal contact list or electronic address book, we do not place personal reminders in the name field, i.e. Kathy (OA). If information is forwarded, the name is displayed and anonymity may be broken.
Blogs
If we mention our membership in Overeaters Anonymous, then we do not use our full name and/or photo on the Blog page. If we want to use our name and/or photo, we do not mention our association with Overeaters Anonymous, nor make references that would disclose our membership.
Messaging Applications
These applications use the internet to send text messages, documents, images, and video and audio messages to other users of the same application.
When using an application in a closed environment, where we are communicating with a single login (meeting), it is okay to use our name and share images. However, if we are using the application in a shared environment, where we have followers who are able to view the postings, then we do not mention our membership, nor that of any of our followers.
Podcasts
When podcasts of speakers are posted on OA websites, it is important to practice the Eleventh and Twelfth Traditions. To protect the anonymity of the speaker and keep the level of celebrity in check, it is suggested that fictitious names be used, reminding us to place “principles over personalities.” When posting recordings, list by topic rather than by speaker. If speaker names are listed, do not use full names; use only first names or first names with last initials. Before posting a taped speaker, review the recording for Tradition breaks, especially anonymity. If an issue arises, consulting with the speaker may allow for the recording to be edited and the share posted.
Social Networks
Social networking sites allow users to share ideas, pictures, posts, activities, events, and interests with people in their network.
Overeaters Anonymous Public Outreach on Social Networks
Although OA members carry the message of OA, the World Service Office (WSO) is responsible for the production and distribution of all worldwide communications. Service bodies are encouraged to post WSO announcements on their local websites or create links to oa.org and any social media pages that the WSO creates. All forms of social media are an opportunity for public outreach and information.
If a service body chooses to create such an account, it is encouraged to keep the account free of all personal pictures and comments that would reveal the identity of OA members. It is suggested that a disclaimer is put on the page such as “We appreciate that people who like this page are showing support of our Fellowship, but this does not indicate that they are members of Overeaters Anonymous.”
Individual Personal Pages on Social Networks
It is strongly recommended that we not share that we are members of Overeaters Anonymous on our social media accounts. While we may not care who knows we are in OA, we may inadvertently disclose another person’s membership in our posts.
Be careful that posted photos do not reveal that we or others in the photo are at an OA event. Be aware of visible backgrounds, badges, or banners.
Avoid posting an OA flyer on a personal site or talking about OA in a video. If we do post OA information, some may assume, rightly or wrongly, that anyone who likes or supports our site or post is an OA member.
Social Network Groups
OA members may wish to explore the possibility of making a private group on a social network site. Such a group would be password protected and individuals join by invitation only. Privacy policies for social network sites are often changed. It is important that the members feel the security of the group is adequate. They need to be aware that there is a risk to their anonymity when using social media. It is recommended that the group read the privacy policies of the site regularly to ensure the group remains private.
Some social media sites are just for sharing information between select friends. This type of site is a good one to use as an information page. Other websites may offer networking forums and social groups, but they also have a product to sell. On this type of site, there is a chance of the message of OA being confused with that of the website. While we are free to participate on such sites, it is not a good idea to use the OA name or logo in any way. It could be mistaken that OA is in some way affiliated with and promoting the site and its products.
Using a social network site to let people know about OA is a great way to inform the public that OA exists. It doesn’t have to be complicated. Just a page that gives the name and purpose of OA with a link to the Fifteen Questions from the OA website page “Take the OA Quiz” (oa.org/quiz) may attract interest.
Use of OA Name and Logo
OA, Overeaters Anonymous, and the OA logo are registered trademarks, and all OA literature is copyrighted. The OA name, logo, and literature should be used for OA group—and service body—related sites only. Permission is required to use the logo or OA literature in any medium, including in print or electronic materials. For complete information, visit the “Copyright Requests” page on the OA website.
A good idea to remember about anonymity in all environments, digital or otherwise, is to never share anything that you would not want to appear on the front page of the newspaper. While you may keep the anonymity of others, you cannot ensure that other people will keep yours.
OA Responsibility Pledge
Always to extend the hand and heart of OA to all who share my compulsion; for this I am responsible.
Overeaters Anonymous, Inc. World Service Office Location: 6075 Zenith Court NE, Rio Rancho, NM 87144, USA Mailing address: PO Box 44727, Rio Rancho, NM 87174-4727, USA Telephone: +1 505-891-2664
OA Workshop: Back to Basics Logistics Opening (15 minutes) Speakers (60 minutes) Introduce speakers, ideally those with a year or more of abstinence and working/living in recovery. Note: During speakers, pass a basket twice to get questions from attendees. Review questions during breakout to consolidate similar questions, reword if needed, and place “off topic” questions … Continued
These guidelines have been developed through the experience of OA members and the Board of Trustees, who have contributed to their creation. They reflect OA Traditions and Concepts of Service as reflected in our OA Conference-approved literature. These guidelines are strong suggestions based on those who have gone before. They do not replace the local group conscience, but we encourage OA groups and service bodies to consider carefully before acting contrary to these suggestions.
The guidelines are designed to assist members in situations where an OA meeting (or meeting attendance) is being disrupted by the behavior of one or more members, within or outside a meeting, whether face-to-face or virtual. Fortunately, such disruptions are rare. The disruption can range from subtle, annoying behavior to dangerous behavior. Many times the behavior is unintentional. Here are examples of issues you may encounter in your meeting:
“My regular meeting is having a problem with a member who is disruptive. She speaks out of turn and argues with other people. People are worried and the group is losing members. What should we do?”
“My home meeting is having a problem with a member who acts in a threatening manner. People are afraid and upset; many are not coming back to the meeting. Short of legal action or contacting the police, does OA have a policy on how to handle difficult members?”
“One of our members has made inappropriate sexual advances toward another member. How should the member and the group handle this situation?”
“Some members from my home group are being particularly controlling with their sponsees and specifically saying that, in order to be considered abstinent, members must stop taking medication and must follow a specific food plan. How can we deal with this?”
“Can we kick a member out of a meeting and/or out of OA?”
There are no easy answers. Although OA has no written policy on disruptive behavior, we can refer to our literature and the Traditions.
“From Tradition One in The Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions of Overeaters Anonymous, Second Edition: “The unity of OA is a matter of life and death to us. However, unity isn’t always easy to maintain…. If we as individuals did not value the common welfare of the Fellowship above our own … OA … would lose the strength that comes from our union of the many” (p. 92).
From Tradition Three in The Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions of Overeaters Anonymous, Second Edition: “Occasionally groups are plagued by members who disrupt the harmony of the meetings. Even these people are not permanently barred from the group and denied the chance to recover. Of course groups must protect their members from violence or harassment…. We have found that most personality problems can best be dealt with on a one-to-one basis” (p. 109).
Tradition Five tells us that the primary purpose of every OA group is to carry the message of recovery to those who still suffer. Every member of the group has the responsibility, therefore, to keep that primary purpose in mind. If a member’s actions are disruptive or dangerous, the OA group not only needs to protect itself and its members, it must also make certain that the primary purpose for which the group exists is upheld. If it doesn’t, the meeting may fold and many may lose the opportunity for recovery.
How a meeting protects itself can cause conflict and controversy. Each situation is unique and should be evaluated individually. Discussing it at your group conscience meeting can help. You may find it helpful to contact your intergroup, service board, region, or the World Service Office to learn how others have dealt with such problems. A letter from the chair of the Board of Trustees to OA members, dated October 6, 2017, stated, “In some cases the individuals who offer themselves as sponsors may go beyond the boundaries suggested for sponsorship. . . . They ought only to share or suggest changes that worked for them in their journey. Sponsors should not issue orders or make demands.”
Alerting local groups, intergroups, and service boards or virtual service boards to potential problems helps them to be prepared if the disruptive individual shows up at another meeting. Be careful, however, to put principles before personalities (Tradition Twelve) and protect members’ anonymity as well as confidentiality.
Clear guidelines in meeting formats (such as a statement regarding cross talk or safe practices in choosing a sponsor) can prevent most problems. Important guidelines may need to be repeated more than once during a meeting. Because virtual meetings lack face-to-face contact, it is critical to set guidelines based on principles prior to creating a meeting format. As our Suggested Meeting Format states, “The chair for each meeting has the discretion to suggest to anyone sharing that he or she is off-topic or is speaking too long.”
When addressing a disruptive member, begin informally, one-to-one if possible. One or two members of the meeting may approach the disruptive individual to discuss the problem and look for solutions. Let the Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions guide you. Always strive to place principles before personalities and treat others with kindness, patience, tolerance, and love. It is best if the members approaching the disruptive individual are grounded in these principles. Any person is welcome at our meetings, but their disruptive behavior is not. Remember, we are dealing with inappropriate behavior. You might need to ask yourself how you would treat a sick person in this situation. You might need to approach the disruptive person by phone. However you decide to approach the disruptive person, it is often helpful to have another member present to ensure your own safety.
If a one-to-one approach is not possible, or if the individual is uncommunicative or uncooperative when approached, it may be necessary to hold a group conscience with the whole meeting or form a specific committee. Be sure to provide an equal hearing for all. Ask everyone to pray for God’s will and come to the meeting with healthy, tolerant, and supportive attitudes. Blame and accusations help no one. The meeting may decide that this individual should be asked to leave for the good of the group. While we cannot expel any person from OA, we can ask a disruptive member who is unwilling to change their behavior(s) to leave the meeting and stay away until the matter has been resolved. This can be done while upholding Tradition Three; we are not denying the person membership in OA as a whole. If the disruption is significant, it may be necessary to state clear consequences, including registering a formal complaint with the police. Our Tradition of anonymity (Tradition Twelve) should never be used to cover up unsafe behavior of any kind.
Other Suggestions
In all cases, strong meetings can minimize opportunities for disruptive behavior. Do you have a strong meeting? Would your meeting benefit from doing a group inventory? Are you using the suggestions on the Strong Meeting Checklist? (See the list of resources at the end of this document.) You may already have procedures in place for dealing with disruptive behaviors. The Suggested Meeting Format provides wording, giving the chair of the meeting responsibility for dealing with such behaviors. Well-prepared group secretaries, leaders, or chairs—and an informed group conscience— are essential to the well-being of meetings.
If disruptions are subtle and reflect nonadherence to the group conscience or meeting format, consider holding a meeting on Tradition Two and/or Tradition Five. Discuss how the Tradition(s) has helped you in your recovery.
A chair, moderator, or any other member can interrupt a disruptive person’s share or outburst by calling for a five-minute break and using the Serenity Prayer to interrupt the disruption and refocus the meeting. A short break or a moment of silent reflection may help. These ideas may bring enough of a pause between the behavior and the continuation of the meeting to bring everyone back to focus on our OA recovery.
If the behavior includes approaching members (during or after a meeting) for inappropriate reasons, including sales pitches, sexual advances, or other unacceptable actions, group members may interrupt the behavior by joining a conversation that might morph into something else and redirect it. For example, if you have a member who habitually approaches younger newcomers as an available sponsor, whereas another member might be a healthier, safer option, members may interrupt and discourage the person known for this type of behavior.
If the disruptive behavior is subtle and primarily attention-seeking, take the person aside or offline, listen to their concerns, and ask how you can help. Share some of your own experience on how you got well, so the person may identify and find their own solutions. Remember the expression, “There but for the grace of God go I.”
Most situations can be resolved within the group. However, if a person appears to be a danger to themself or others, then it is appropriate to call the police. Police are trained to deal with such cases.
Sometimes a member is so distraught that they may need immediate attention. In a face-to-face meeting, it may be appropriate for someone to take that member aside to offer help. In a virtual meeting, a member may arrange to immediately contact the distraught person to work one-on-one offline while the rest of the group continues its meeting.
You can address disruption in virtual meetings by speaking to people privately. If this is not successful, discussion at the group conscience meeting may help the group find a way to approach the problem.
Technology can also be helpful. Phone meetings often have access to an internet interface or “dashboard” that allows meeting moderators to mute or remove a disruptive caller from the meeting. In virtual meetings, make sure that a moderator with access to the dashboard is familiar with the Traditions and only mutes, drops, or blocks a caller after other methods have failed. Online meetings have options such as private messaging and “gag” commands. Moderators can remove a member who is cursing or spamming and offer a public explanation.
Remember, a member is never permanently banned from a meeting (Tradition Three).
Resources
The Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions of Overeaters Anonymous, Second Edition (#990-2)
Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions by Alcoholics Anonymous
Overeaters Anonymous, Inc. World Service Office Location: 6075 Zenith Court NE, Rio Rancho, NM 87144, USA Mailing address: PO Box 44727, Rio Rancho, NM 87174-4727, USA Telephone: +1 505-891-2664
Fundraising Ideas
The Tradition of Self-Support
The Prudent Reserve
Guarding our Traditions
Fundraising Ideas
OA events are wonderful for fellowship and recovery, and the funds they generate can help groups and service bodies continue Twelve Step work. Fundraisers that include the use of OA literature reinforce the program and help carry the message.
Suggested fundraisers
Anniversary celebrations
Annual OA events such as Overeaters Anonymous’ birthday and International Day Experiencing Abstinence (IDEA), Unity, and Twelfth Step Within days may be celebrated with a marathon, banquet, or dance. Hold an OA meeting in conjunction with the social event. National holidays can also be special times for fellow OA members to be together. Valentine’s Day dances, Independence Day picnics, Thanksgiving “thank-a-thons,” and New Year’s Eve balls are examples of events with a holiday theme.
Games and activities
A dance or carnival can include games and activities that can be enjoyed for a nominal donation. (Examples: photo booths and face- and/or hand-painting stands.) Raffles, 50/50 drawings, or other games of chance may be offered in areas where state and local laws permit. In addition, raffles or games of chance should be conducted in a manner that does not divert from our primary purpose.
Merchandise sales
T-shirts, mugs, book bags, and other items can be sold at OA events and serve as ongoing fundraisers for groups and service bodies. In accordance with OA World Service Business Conference (WSBC) policy, it is suggested that all sale items be approved by group conscience and that sales be conducted in a manner that will not divert attention from OA’s primary purpose or endorse an outside enterprise.
Auctions
Items or services contributed by OA members can be purchased by the highest bidder.
Boutique
Items donated by OA members may be sold to OA members for set prices.
Talent shows
Members can show off their creativity and raise money.
Gratitude pledges
Members may choose to make special Seventh Tradition contributions to celebrate OA birthdays, memorials, or other occasions. Pledge envelopes can be made available at meetings.
Contribution jars
These could be set out for special causes as well as ongoing needs such as the region representative or World Service Business Conference delegate travel funds, telephone funds, buying office equipment, or scholarships to OA events.
“No Bake” sales
Members contribute money they used to spend on snack or junk food items.
For additional ideas or guidance, contact other service bodies or your region.
The Tradition of Self-Support
OA’s Seventh Tradition states: “Every OA group ought to be fully self-supporting, declining outside contributions.”
A question groups and service bodies must ask themselves is: “Are we truly self-supporting?”
How can our group increase the Seventh Tradition collection?
Group members may not be aware of how important individual contributions are to OA’s continued existence. To bring this point home during meetings, the group treasurer might read aloud OA’s Seventh Tradition and its explanation from the pamphlet The Twelve Traditions of Overeaters Anonymous as the basket is being passed. Group treasurers can also make monthly reports to their groups and make sure the basket circulates to all members. Virtual meeting members may contribute directly to the WSO. To contribute, go to the 7th Tradition Contribution page on oa.org.
How much should our group give to our service body and why?
Many meetings never contribute financially to their service bodies—sometimes because they don’t understand the importance of it, sometimes because they don’t know how. A good guide for making appropriate financial contributions to service bodies is the pamphlet Seventh Tradition of OA. It explains how contributions support service body services such as telephone hotlines, meeting lists, public information, and Twelfth Step Within activities. Groups and service bodies might consider donating these guidelines to each of their meetings. Virtual meetings contribute to their service body and the World Service Office (WSO).
What can service bodies do to encourage contributions?
Service body officers may want to attend meetings that haven’t contributed to the service body and explain the concept of self-support. Monthly service body newsletters can print service body treasurers’ reports to let members know how contributions are being spent. Communications can include the service body, region, and World Service Office addresses to help groups send in their contributions. Service body treasurers should keep in regular contact with group treasurers. Groups that do contribute could be acknowledged through thank-you notes and notices in the service body newsletter.
Am I giving enough?
A personal question members may want to ask themselves is: “Am I still contributing in the same manner as when I first came into the program? I used to spend many dollars on my binge foods; how much do I donate in gratitude for my recovery?” Some individuals make yearly donations to the WSO to express their gratitude for the recovery they have found in OA. Sponsors might share with sponsees the meaning and importance of the Seventh Tradition.
To help OA carry the message of recovery, members may want to give an automated monthly Seventh Tradition contribution. OA accepts contributions from OA members, groups, and service bodies only. An OA member may contribute up to US$7,500 per year to the general fund, up to US$7,500 to any special fund, and up to US$7,500 to honor the memory of a deceased member. To set your monthly contribution, visit the 7th Tradition Contribution page on oa.org.
The Prudent Reserve
What is a prudent reserve?
A prudent reserve is an amount of money set aside to provide a source of funds for situations such as a sudden increase in expenses or an unanticipated loss in contributions with the intention of reserves being used and replenished within a reasonably short period of time. Each group or service body should establish its own prudent reserve policy.
How much money should be in the prudent reserve?
The amount may be determined by figuring operational expenses for a given period of time—for example, the World Service Office has selected three months to calculate its minimum reserve funds. Expenses include such things as rent, telephone, postage, printing, utilities, and salaries, if applicable. The fund should be periodically reviewed to make sure it meets the present and projected needs of the group or service body.
What if our group doesn’t have any extra money?
If a service body finds it can’t fully fund its prudent reserve all at once, fundraising activities such as those suggested in these guidelines may be undertaken to raise the needed monies.
Guarding Our Traditions
It’s the responsibility of all OA members to act as guardians of our Traditions. Not upholding our Traditions often occurs through misunderstanding or misinformation. We need to be constantly alert that we don’t inadvertently make a precedent-setting decision that could adversely affect our own and other OA groups and thus OA as a whole.
Overeaters Anonymous, Inc. World Service Office Location: 6075 Zenith Court NE, Rio Rancho, NM 87144, USA Mailing address: PO Box 44727, Rio Rancho, NM 87174-4727, USA Telephone: +1 505-891-2664
Contents
Introduction
Purpose of a Budget
Creating the Budget
Budget Format
Determining a Prudent Reserve
Budget Review
Revenue Review
Expense Review
Additional Budgeting Tips
Introduction
These guidelines are designed to help service bodies (intergroups, service boards, regions) develop an annual process for creating, monitoring, and administering a budget. This enables service bodies to adhere to Tradition Seven: “Every OA group ought to be fully self-supporting, declining outside contributions.”
Purpose of a Budget
A service body’s budget provides a means to plan for the fundraising and expenditures necessary to perform the Twelve Step work of carrying the message within and outside the Fellowship of Overeaters Anonymous. A budget can facilitate planning by allocating projected income against anticipated expenses for the upcoming year.
As the service body develops consensus on group priorities, the budget provides a framework to accomplish the following goals:
Strengthen the service body and/or member’s sense of ownership and involvement
Give the board, committees, and representatives of the service bodies clear direction on the suggested activities for the year
Help the service body operate without fear of financial insecurity
According to Concept Twelve, section (b), “sufficient operating funds, plus an ample reserve, shall be OA’s prudent financial principle.” To continue providing services, Overeaters Anonymous service bodies need to have budgets based on past experience, as well as on current and projected income. A prudent reserve is an emergency fund or savings that allows OA service bodies to carry the message of recovery, even if projected income is not met. The amount may be determined by figuring operational expenses for a given period of time—for example, one to six months. Expenses include such things as rent, telephone, postage, printing, utilities, and salaries, if applicable. The fund should be periodically reviewed to make sure it meets the present and projected needs of the group or service body.
Creating the Budget
Organizations use budgets to agree on how to spend resources in a given fiscal year. It is important to understand the differences between fixed and variable spending, in case of a catastrophic financial event. The service body may ask the treasurer or a budget committee to draft the proposal. The process involves estimating future income and expenses.
Estimating Yearly Income
Yearly income can come from Seventh-Tradition contributions, fundraising activities, and proceeds from retreats, workshops, marathons, etc. In addition, money may be available from OA regions or World Service Office (WSO) to fund special requests; for example, delegate travel to the World Service Business Conference (WSBC) or trustee travel to speak at workshops, professional exhibits, etc. (See oa.org or individual region websites for more information.)
Estimating Expenses
Expenses can be divided into two categories: fixed and variable.
Fixed expenses may include the following items:
costs for copies
office rent
room rent
post office box
telephone
Variable expenses may include the following items:
postage
professional outreach or public information projects
Twelfth Step Within activities
special events
delegate and region representative travel (and region chair or trustee travel, if applicable)
newsletter, literature, media library
ad hoc committees, such as bylaws, budget, etc.
website development and maintenance
contributions to other levels of service: service body or WSO
A service body can determine its budget for an upcoming year by reviewing the past year’s budget and considering the need to increase income or decrease expenses. The service body can also ask OA members or committees to submit proposals on how much money they need for certain duties or obligations. Exhibit 1 below is an example of a proposal to the budget committee for travel to a region assembly.
Exhibit 1: Budget Proposal Example
Item
Estimate
Source
Registration Fee
$40
Region Assembly Registration Form
Mileage
$28
200 miles (per internet navigation site software) x 14 cents per mile
Hotel
$240 (plus tax)
Hotel rate of $120 per night plus tax
Meals
$110
$55/day x 2 days
Total Request
$418
(NOTE: This example is from the United States. Transportation reimbursement policies and rates will vary by country.)
Budgets can be legibly handwritten, typed, or entered into a software program. The advantage of using computer software—whether a spreadsheet or financial program—is the ease of entering, updating, and disseminating data to members.
Exhibit 2: Sample Budget
INCOME
BUDGET
CDs and Electronic Media
$
Convention—Local
$
Convention—State
$
Fundraising
$
Retreat
$
Seventh Tradition Contributions—Group
$
Seventh Tradition Contributions—Individual
$
Workshops
$
TOTAL INCOME
$
EXPENSES
$
Banking Fees/Adjustments
$
Chair’s Expenses
$
Convention—State
$
Delegate Expenses
$
Newsletter
$
P.O. Box Rental
$
Phone Service
$
Professional Outreach/Public Information
$
Secretary—Corresponding
$
Secretary—Recording
$
Seventh Tradition Contributions to Region
$
Seventh Tradition Contributions to World Service Office
$
Twelfth Step Within
$
Ways and Means
$
We Care List
$
Website (for the year)
$
TOTAL EXPENSES
$
INCOME MINUS EXPENSES
$
The items in this sample budget are listed alphabetically. In practice, a service body usually lists budget items in order of priority. Fixed expenses are deducted first, and the remaining balance is divided among variable expenses as determined by member proposals and group conscience. Some service bodies have agreed on policies that prescribe how to prioritize variable expenses.
The service body’s treasurer reviews the requests and checks for accuracy, and then enters the figures into the budget document.
The treasurer (or budget committee chair) convenes a meeting where interested members agree to the funding allocation among committees.
If available funds will not cover all the requests, the service body has two options to align with the service body’s agreed priorities:
To evenly reduce discretionary expenses
To have committee members reduce or eliminate funding for specific work
What is the budget approval process?
The service body’s bylaws may stipulate the approval process. Listed below is one example of the levels of approval:
budget committee
executive board
service body representatives
Determining a Prudent Reserve
A prudent reserve is an amount of money set aside so the service body can function if its income falls below expectations. Voluntary contributions are unpredictable, so service bodies must balance the need to be prudent and ensure stability with the need to carry the message. Many service bodies determine the size of a prudent reserve by establishing a certain percentage of operating expenses. One suggestion is to set aside a minimum of one to six months’ total operating expenses. By examining its financial records for the past one to three years, a service body can estimate its operating expenses and determine a prudent reserve. (For more information about determining a prudent reserve see the Fundraising and Prudent Reserve Guidelines for Groups and Service Bodies on oa.org.)
Budget Review
The power of a budget lies in reviewing and adjusting it. It is wise to conduct regular budget reviews and report variances to the service body. In addition, treasurers should quickly review the budget before each expenditure and review it more formally each quarter.
Revenue Review
If revenues are substantially down, the following actions are helpful:
Report the decline immediately to the service body, using exact numbers.
Discuss the necessary corrective steps, which can include formally reducing budgets, if necessary, and consider fundraising events or campaigns to increase contributions.
If revenues are substantially up, the following actions are helpful:
Celebrate the success through service body announcements.
Consider adding budget money to areas that would help carry the message.
Let area groups know how the extra money will be spent.
The adjustments mentioned above should go through the appropriate approval process.
Expense Review
Analyze each expense category to see what is on budget, over budget, under budget, or nearing budget limits.
If expenses are on budget, report this success to the service body.
If expenses are over the budgeted amount, the following actions are helpful:
Report the increase to the service body and explain the reasons for it.
Decide how to increase the budget or freeze spending for the remainder of the year.
If expenses are under budget, the following actions are helpful:
Report the decrease to the service body.
Determine whether the excess funds can be used elsewhere or held in reserve.
Determine why the item is under budget and take corrective action.
Is the budgeted item no longer important or necessary? Consider moving the budget allocation to another area.
Is the budgeted item important or necessary but not being carried out? Take immediate corrective action.
Keep in mind that any adjustments to the budget should go through the approval process.
If expenses are nearing the end of their budgeted amounts, the following actions are helpful:
Alert the appropriate person within the service body so he or she can make adjustments accordingly.
Review the budget amount for appropriateness.
Additional Budgeting Tips
Make the budgeting process as simple as possible.
Involve as many members as you can in financial planning and budgeting. This will take the mystery out of finances.
Explain to all service body members what the money is being spent on.
Talk about finances at all levels, emphasizing that every member can contribute to the service body’s financial health.
Put excess revenues back into services that help carry the message. If revenues are substantially up, it may be appropriate to increase spending above budgeted amounts, or to increase Seventh Tradition contributions to the region or World Service Office (WSO).
Even if revenues are up, the service body should approve spending above budgeted amounts prior to committing to the expenditure.
Treasurers should check budgets before reimbursing anyone, and the service body should approve any reimbursement amounts not in the budget.
Financially stable service bodies and strong recovery in an area usually go hand in hand.
Seventh Tradition contributions usually follow recovery.
If revenues are down, focus on recovery.
If revenues are up, celebrate recovery and carry the message even more.
Service bodies that participate in the service structure above intergroup level tend to become stronger financially. If revenues are down, resist the temptation to stop sending representatives to region, national/language service board, and world service events. Participation in these events brings fresh ideas that help carry the message, thus strengthening service bodies financially.
Contribute year-end cash surpluses to the wider Fellowship according to the group conscience in your area. Groups frequently choose to send 50 percent of excess funds to their intergroup or service board, 10 percent to their region and 40 percent to WSO. Groups may also choose to contribute all excess funds to their intergroup/service board, and allow those service bodies to contribute to the region and WSO.
Always put money above the prudent reserve back into recovery-related services, or contribute year-end cash surpluses to the wider Fellowship according to the group conscience in your area.
Relate the service body’s total costs to the number of groups supported by that service body. One region that had a financial crisis used this approach: First, the region divided its expenses by the number of groups in that region, thus coming up with an average per group. The region used this average to arrive at a range of suggested contributions from each group. The region then sent a letter or email to each group, explaining the status of the region’s finances and asking all groups to consider contributing within the suggested range. This proved to be an effective communication: The region’s income increased by 66 percent in the first year after the letter was sent, and by 48 percent in the following year. This approach was successful because the request was clear and simple and the suggested contribution was manageable. It provided a goal for less-affluent groups and allowed more-affluent groups to perceive they were assisting the other groups.
Overeaters Anonymous, Inc. World Service Office Location: 6075 Zenith Court NE, Rio Rancho, NM 87144, USA Mailing address: PO Box 44727, Rio Rancho, NM 87174-4727, USA Telephone: +1 505-891-2664
As described in the OA Handbook for Members, Groups and Service Bodies, many groups hold meetings to determine how best to conduct meetings, spend funds, organize special events, and deal with issues that affect the group or OA as a whole. These meetings to discuss the business of the group allow members to work together to consider and agree on how best to proceed in the interests of OA as a whole.
Our business meetings are conducted by group conscience. Group conscience is about the special ways (unique to Twelve Step fellowships) in which the individuals in a group conscience meeting are inspired to enable the meeting to agree on the best decisions for OA.
In our pamphlet The Twelve Concepts of OA Service, Concept One discusses the need to reach an informed group conscience. Our Twelve Traditions and our Twelve Concepts of OA Service are the basis for much of our decision-making and the primary means by which we reach an informed group conscience. (Other means include the history of the group, what other groups have done in similar situations, and other background it may be useful to gather.) When we cannot decide what approach to take, it is always prudent to look first at the Traditions and Concepts.
Group conscience demands the private discipline of accepting that our own views are just that, our own views, and listening with an open mind to the views of others. We are prepared to see things differently and to adjust our perception and yield to the group conscience to arrive at consensus.
Not all our group decisions will be wise and practical. We do make mistakes sometimes and have to look for better answers to a problem. Another group conscience vote can be taken when something needs to be corrected. Like individuals, OA groups learn from their mistakes—and so does OA as a whole. We find that our Higher Power often leads us through our blunders.
To minimize blunders, it’s important that every voting member be fully informed and understand all pertinent facts before voting. Behind all this lies Tradition Two: “For our group purpose there is but one ultimate authority—a loving God as He may express Himself in our group conscience. Our leaders are but trusted servants; they do not govern.”
This suggests that each of us is responsible for attempting to be free of our own will so we may be open to the good of the whole. The same spirit of selflessness applies regardless of the size or service level of the group. Groups often hold group conscience meetings before or after their regular meetings.
Groups may set a regular schedule for these meetings, or any member of the group may call for a meeting. Providing notice of the meeting and agenda topics a few weeks in advance is a good idea so those attending may have time to think about the items, read background material, and find relevant information when appropriate.
In some meetings, all persons attending may vote; other meetings might restrict voting privileges to regular attendees. While some steering committee meetings might restrict voting on routine matters, such as paying bills, to those who meet the committee’s abstinence requirements, all group members vote on matters of major importance, such as format and abstinence requirements for speakers and officers.
Most members have a special affinity for one particular group and consider it their home group, where they accept responsibilities and try to sustain friendships. Members are encouraged not to meddle in the business or policy of groups they visit only occasionally, or where they do not accept service assignments (p. 12).
Your group or service body may find it useful to study the Traditions and Concepts regularly to become better informed about their origin and usefulness. Many groups have a Traditions meeting once a month in which the topic of that meeting is a particular Tradition.
The following is a suggested format for group conscience meetings. It does not require formal decision-making methods such as motion, amendment, and debate because, as Concept Twelve (d) states, “all important decisions shall be reached by discussion, vote and, whenever possible, by substantial unanimity.” But a group may decide that a certain item would be more efficiently discussed by using motions and votes. The size of the group may determine the formality needed. Each group may decide how to conduct their business.
Suggested Format for a Group Conscience Meeting
1. Introduction
“Welcome to the group conscience meeting of the __________ group of Overeaters Anonymous. My name is __________, and I am a compulsive eater and the chair of this meeting.”
2. Serenity Prayer
“Will those who wish to, please join me in the Serenity Prayer: God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and wisdom to know the difference.”
“The purpose of this meeting is to make decisions that affect our group. I encourage everyone here to participate. If a matter comes to a vote and you do not attend our meeting regularly or do not plan to, please consider whether it would be reasonable for you to vote. However, we welcome everyone’s viewpoint; we can all learn from one another.
“Please remember Tradition Five: ‘Each group has but one primary purpose—to carry its message to the compulsive overeater who still suffers.’ Therefore, anything we decide at this meeting must reflect that purpose. No matter what we believe as individuals, we must be united in our purpose to carry our message as best we can to the compulsive overeater who still suffers. That person is our focus. May we do our best for him or her.”
5. Minutes from Previous Meeting
“Are there minutes from our last meeting?” [Secretary reads minutes, if available, or distributes copies.] “Any corrections or additions?”
[Applicable corrections or additions are made.]
6. Setting Up the Agenda
[At this point, the chair presents the agenda and asks for additions or amendments. The agenda often results from discussions at previous meetings, or people at the current meeting may make suggestions. The chair should make certain that the agenda is clear, in a logical sequence, and agreeable to those attending the group conscience meeting. The attendees address each item on the agenda.]
7. Making Decisions
[Some agenda items may require collecting information before the meeting; e.g., if one item is “Should the meeting start half an hour earlier,” it would be important to check if the room is available half an hour earlier. Depending on the nature of the issue, decisions can be made in different ways. The issue might not be controversial at all. It might be supported or opposed by most people in the group, but vehemently opposed or supported by a minority. It might have the support of only slightly more or less than half the group. Each possibility can require a different approach. To determine how to handle the issue, the chair might begin with a general statement, such as:]
“The issue here is whether or not this group should change its meeting format to have a Traditions meeting on the last Monday of the month. Does anyone feel strongly one way or the other? Let’s go around the room and have people indicate how they feel, what they think would be best for the group, and why they think this would be helpful to the group.” (Or, “Let’s have a quick vote. Those who like the proposal, please raise your hands. Now, those who don’t like the proposal, please raise your hands.”)
General Consensus
[If it becomes clear members generally share the same opinion, the chair can say something like the following:] “It seems that we may have reached a consensus. Let’s make certain. Does anyone oppose (or support) this proposal?” [If no hands are raised, the chair may say:] “Let’s go on to other business. Would our secretary please record that we reached a consensus to have (or not have) a Traditions meeting on the last Monday of the month?”
Some Support or Opposition
[If it is apparent that some feel strongly for or against the proposal, the chair may say something like the following:] “It is clear that at least some members feel strongly that this proposal should (not) go forward. We in OA try to find a consensus, so it is important that we hear all points of view. Often those who disagree with the majority can best educate us by explaining the reasons for the views they hold. Let us remember that whatever decision we make can always be changed if our experience suggests it isn’t working. Let us have two people who support the proposal and two who oppose it speak for two (or three or five) minutes each, alternating one for and one against, followed by another vote.”
Clear Result from the Vote
[If the results of the vote are clear—very few members either oppose or support the proposal—then the chair may say something like:] “It appears that this proposal has (or does not have) the support of the majority of the group. Accordingly, would our secretary please record that we reached a group conscience on __________?”
A Large Minority
[If the vote doesn’t show a clear consensus, in the interests of developing a true group conscience, the chair should try to work toward a greater consensus in the following suggested manner:] “Concept Twelve (d) says, ‘all important decisions shall be reached by discussion, vote and, whenever possible, by substantial unanimity.’ In my opinion, we have not reached substantial unanimity. A large number of members present oppose (or support) this proposal and to go with the majority would not achieve unanimity.
“Does anyone have an idea of how to develop our informed group conscience in this situation?”
[Here are some ideas that groups have used to develop a group conscience:
Ask for suggestions, changes, or amendments to the proposal that might address some of the reasons it has not found substantial unanimity. Perhaps those in the minority who are opposed to the proposal largely support it but disagree with one or two parts. Amending those parts could result in substantial unanimity.
Appoint a committee of two, four, or six members, evenly divided on the issue, to discuss it and make recommendations to the group.
Try the proposal for a limited time and monitor its effectiveness. Schedule a group conscience meeting for one to six months in the future to decide whether to continue using it.
Hold the proposal until the next group conscience meeting and announce at each OA group meeting that it did not achieve substantial unanimity and that it is important for all regularly attending members to be at the next group conscience meeting to discuss the proposal fully.]
8. Closing
“Is there any further business to conduct? Does anyone want to raise an issue for a future meeting?”
“Thank you for coming. To close the meeting, let us have a moment of silence followed by __________.” [Select one of the following suggested closings: Serenity Prayer, Seventh Step Prayer, Third Step Prayer, or the OA Promise: “I put my hand in yours…”]
OA Responsibility Pledge
Always to extend the hand and heart of OA to all who share my compulsion for this I am responsible.
Overeaters Anonymous, Inc. World Service Office Location: 6075 Zenith Court NE, Rio Rancho, NM 87144, USA Mailing address: PO Box 44727, Rio Rancho, NM 87174-4727, USA Telephone: +1 505-891-2664
Use this guide with suggestions of what to say and what not to say when speaking to someone about OA for the first time.
DOs
I am open to talking about my recovery.
I mention how much my weight has changed, and I may show my pre-OA photo.
I am positive and happy when talking about OA.
I am always willing to give out the New Prospect Card and my phone number.
I emphasize the peace of mind I have found in life around food.
I suggest that people come to a meeting and just listen. Nothing is required of them.
I mention OA to my doctor and other health care professionals.
I carry the message as part of my action plan.
I am concise when talking about the OA program, leaving room for curiosity.
I explain the concept of “just for today.”
I mention that OA is a nonprofit organization and there are no membership dues or fees.
I share how OA has helped in all facets of my life.
I explain some of the program’s Tools.
I give examples of my unhealthy eating behaviors from before OA (such as eternal dieting, starving, bingeing, constantly weighing myself).
I say that our program is modeled on Alcoholics Anonymous and that my problem is similar to alcoholism. OA is for people who use food just like alcoholics use alcohol.
I offer to meet them at their first meeting if at all possible.
DON’Ts
I don’t tell people that OA is the only way.
I try not to sound like a preacher or give a speech.
I don’t judge other people, and I don’t label them as compulsive overeaters.
I don’t talk about another’s shape or weight, only my own.
I do not mention specific spiritual or religious beliefs.
I don’t speak about OA to someone new unless he or she shows an interest.
I don’t try to “sell” the Twelve Step program or exaggerate about it.
I don’t promise anything.
I don’t put down diets or methods of weight loss; I don’t compare OA to other programs.
I don’t give too much information about meetings and how it all works; the best way to understand is to come to a meeting.
I don’t give unsolicited advice or suggestions.
I don’t rush people into making a decision.
I don’t argue.
I don’t shut the door. Even if someone is not interested now, he or she may be interested in the future.
“I don’t have to wait until I am perfect to do service.” (Voices of Recovery, Second Edition, p. 252)
“Service gives me practice at freeing myself from the bondage of self.” (Voices of Recovery, Second Edition, p. 284)
“Only by working with those who are not yet free [from the disease] do I fully realize that freedom.” (For Today, p. 252)
“We now have a message of hope to carry to other compulsive overeaters.” (The Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions of Overeaters Anonymous, Second Edition, p. 81)
“When all other measures failed, work with another alcoholic would save the day.” (Alcoholics Anonymous, 4th ed., p. 15)
“Most of us who’ve worked this program will be unable to keep the recovery we have unless we share our experience, strength, and hope with others.” (The Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions of Overeaters Anonymous, Second Edition, p. 82)
“Practical experience shows that nothing will so much insure immunity from drinking as intensive work with other alcoholics.” (Alcoholics Anonymous, 4th ed., p. 89)
“Those of us who live this program don’t simply carry the message; we are the message.” (The Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions of Overeaters Anonymous, Second Edition, p. 87)
Having had a spiritual awakening as the result of these Steps, we tried to carry this message to compulsive overeaters and to practice these principles in all our affairs.
Tradition Five
Each group has but one primary purpose—to carry its message to the compulsive overeater who still suffers.
OA Responsibility Pledge
Always to extend the hand and heart of OA to all who share my compulsion, for this I am responsible.
The Twelve Steps
We admitted we were powerless over food—that our lives had become unmanageable.
Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.
Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood Him.
Made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves.
Admitted to God, to ourselves and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.
Were entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character.
Humbly asked Him to remove our shortcomings.
Made a list of all persons we had harmed, and became willing to make amends to them all.
Made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others.
Continued to take personal inventory and when we were wrong, promptly admitted it.
Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understood Him, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out.
Having had a spiritual awakening as the result of these Steps, we tried to carry this message to compulsive overeaters and to practice these principles in all our affairs.
Permission to use the Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous for adaptation granted by AA World Services, Inc.
The Twelve Traditions
Our common welfare should come first; personal recovery depends upon OA unity.
For our group purpose there is but one ultimate authority — a loving God as He may express Himself in our group conscience. Our leaders are but trusted servants; they do not govern.
The only requirement for OA membership is a desire to stop eating compulsively.
Each group should be autonomous except in matters affecting other groups or OA as a whole.
Each group has but one primary purpose — to carry its message to the compulsive overeater who still suffers.
An OA group ought never endorse, finance or lend the OA name to any related facility or outside enterprise, lest problems of money, property and prestige divert us from our primary purpose.
Every OA group ought to be fully self-supporting, declining outside contributions.
Overeaters Anonymous should remain forever non-professional, but our service centers may employ special workers.
OA, as such, ought never be organized; but we may create service boards or committees directly responsible to those they serve.
Overeaters Anonymous has no opinion on outside issues; hence, the OA name ought never be drawn into public controversy.
Our public relations policy is based on attraction rather than promotion; we need always maintain personal anonymity at the level of press, radio, films, television and other public media of communication.
Anonymity is the spiritual foundation of all these Traditions, ever reminding us to place principles before personalities.
Permission to use the Twelve Traditions of Alcoholics Anonymous for adaptation granted by AA World Services, Inc.
Overeaters Anonymous, Inc. World Service Office Location: 6075 Zenith Court NE, Rio Rancho, NM 87144, USA Mailing address: PO Box 44727, Rio Rancho, NM 87174-4727, USA Telephone: +1 505-891-2664
Why is a bylaws or a summary of purpose (SOP) document needed?
Either bylaws or a summary of purpose is required by OA Bylaws, Subpart B to register a service body with Overeaters Anonymous.
What is useful about having bylaws and policies?
At the intergroup, service board, region, and world services levels, there are agreed-upon practices that work best if they are clearly defined and recorded. We have elected officers and committees with ongoing responsibilities to be carried out. We have agreed-upon budgeting and spending practices. Bylaws and documented policies and procedures provide a set of guidelines for how our individual service bodies have agreed to operate. Bylaws and a policies and procedures manual can help new service position holders learn how to carry out their duties as well as inform the membership how the group has agreed to do things, such as define job descriptions, fund delegates, plan events, assist new groups, and more. Bylaws and policies and procedures help us convey a unified and consistent message of recovery and are a way to share our collective experience, strength, and hope.
How do you create bylaws or a SOP?
For the sample documents listed below, see the Document Library page on the OA website (oa.org/document-library); click on “Service Body Resources” under the Categories field. You may check with your region trustee about which of the following you need:
Intergroup Bylaws
National Service Board Bylaws
Specific Focus or Language Service Board Bylaws
Summary of Purpose
Form a committee of three to four members to develop the document. Enter information into the sample.
Add additional sections or items to ensure the document covers what your service body feels is necessary. Avoid including policies or procedures for tasks that may be temporary or change frequently. Such items are more appropriate to include in a policies and procedures manual.
Throughout the development process, present sections of the document to the entire service body for group-conscience guidance on how your service body wants to conduct its business.
Present the document as a whole to the entire service body for review, final edits, and group-conscience approval.
Submit a copy of the completed and signed document to your region trustee for review. An electronic file is preferred.
What is a policies and procedures manual?
Policies and procedures are a set of agreed-upon practices that amplify the information contained in your bylaws. For example, your bylaws may say that you elect officers and committee chairs. Your policies and procedures manual may then cite the basic requirements of each job.
Policies and procedures can be changed more easily and quickly than bylaws.
Policies and procedures explain how a policy or bylaw is to be implemented and practiced. This helps with long-term consistency.
Note that, unlike bylaws, policies and procedures do not need to be submitted to your region trustee or the World Service Office (WSO).
What does the region trustee do with the bylaws you submit?
Your region trustee will review the document to be sure it is not in conflict with OA, Inc. Bylaws, Subpart B prior to the registration of your service body with the WSO. Your trustee may make suggestions in accordance with the Twelve Traditions, the Twelve Concepts of OA Service, or for reasons such as clarity. Your service body is encouraged to seriously consider incorporating the suggestions. If changes are made, follow numbers 5 and 6 above.
After your trustee confirms that your bylaws are in agreement with OA, Inc. Bylaws, Subpart B, your trustee will forward the approved copy to the WSO and your service body. The trustee will also keep a copy of your bylaws on file.
What happens next?
It is good practice for your service body to review your bylaws and policies and procedures manual annually to ensure that any pertinent changes made at the World Service Business Conference (WSBC), as well as possibly changing local needs, are reflected in the documents. An annual review will help ensure that your documents are consistent with your current practices. Your updated bylaws then need to be submitted to your trustee and the WSO.
Introduction
“These Twelve Traditions are to the groups what the Twelve Steps are to the individual. They are suggested principles to ensure the survival and growth of the many groups that compose Overeaters Anonymous.” —The Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions of Overeaters Anonymous
The Twelve Traditions of Overeaters Anonymous
Our common welfare should come first; personal recovery depends upon OA unity.
For our group purpose there is but one ultimate authority — a loving God as He may express Himself in our group conscience. Our leaders are but trusted servants; they do not govern.
The only requirement for OA membership is a desire to stop eating compulsively.
Each group should be autonomous except in matters affecting other groups or OA as a whole.
Each group has but one primary purpose — to carry its message to the compulsive overeater who still suffers.
An OA group ought never endorse, finance or lend the OA name to any related facility or outside enterprise, lest problems of money, property and prestige divert us from our primary purpose.
Every OA group ought to be fully self-supporting, declining outside contributions.
Overeaters Anonymous should remain forever non-professional, but our service centers may employ special workers.
OA, as such, ought never be organized; but we may create service boards or committees directly responsible to those they serve.
Overeaters Anonymous has no opinion on outside issues; hence, the OA name ought never be drawn into public controversy.
Our public relations policy is based on attraction rather than promotion; we need always maintain personal anonymity at the level of press, radio, films, television and other public media of communication.
Anonymity is the spiritual foundation of all these Traditions, ever reminding us to place principles before personalities.
Permission to use the Twelve Traditions of Alcoholics Anonymous for adaptation granted by AA World Services, Inc.
