AA celebrates 70 years of sobriety
The South African branch of the international fellowship encourages those dealing with alcohol abuse to make the first step to recovery.
ALCOHOLICS Anonymous South Africa (AASA) celebrated its 70th anniversary recently and throughout its existence has helped and guided thousands of South Africans to recover from alcoholism.
AASA, which operates under the umbrella of the worldwide, USA founded, Fellowship of Alcoholics Anonymous, came into existence in Johannesburg, when the first South African recovery group opened its doors on 18 October 1946.
The Fellowship of Alcoholics Anonymous is governed by the three legacies which include recovery, unity and service.
“The key to recovery is the highly acclaimed 12 step recovery programme. Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women who share their experiences, strength and hope with each other to solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism,” said Pravesh, the KZN inter-group chairman.
“Heading into the silly season, for those suffering from the disease of alcoholism, Alcoholics Anonymous has the tools and support structure to help all people who think they might have a problem with alcohol.”
“Statistics show that many people consume excessive amounts of alcohol during the festive period which sometime leads to irresponsible behaviour, acts of violence and transgressions with the law. The main reason for this behaviour is that those individual do not know when and how to stop consuming alcohol, once they have begun,” said Pravesh.
Members of Alcoholics Anonymous are duty bound to assist all, irrespective of age, gender, race, creed and religious denomination in recovering from the abuse of alcohol. Fellowship meetings are conducted daily, in all areas.
More about the AA:
The only requirement for membership is the desire to stop drinking. There are no fees for an AA membership.
AA is not allied with any sect, denomination, political party, organisation or institution. It does not engage in any controversy and does not endorse or oppose any causes.
Its primary purpose is to help its members stay sober and help other alcoholics to achieve sobriety.
Contact its 24-hour helpline on 0861 HELPAA (0861 435722) or visit its website, www.aasouthafrica.org.za.
