Welcome New GSRs
Your Role in General Service
As a General Service Representative (GSR), you are your group’s link to A.A. as a whole. You speak for your group’s conscience at District and Area 02 meetings. You keep your group informed and connected with the wider fellowship, including the General Service Office (GSO) in New York.
“The strength of our whole A.A. service structure starts with the group and with the General Service Representative (GSR) the group elects.” – Bill W.
Key Responsibilities
Attend District meetings and Area 02 assemblies
Report back to your group about A.A. service news and events
Share info about local events, workshops, and service opportunities
Maintain contact with your District Committee Member (DCM) and GSO
Keep your group’s information updated with the Area registrar or GSO
Learn about the Twelve Traditions, Twelve Concepts, and the A.A. Service Manual
Refer to the GSR Pamphlet for more details.
How to Register
Download and complete the Group Information Change Form. Area 02 districts are listed here. Send the form to:
Alternatively, you may complete the online Group Change Form.
Service Sponsorship
Consider finding a “Service Sponsor”—an experienced member who can guide you through your service role. Ask around in Area 02 for suggestions. More information can be found in the Questions & Answers on Sponsorship pamphlet (P-15).
Giving GSR Reports
Keep your group informed with short, weekly reports.
For matters needing a group conscience, plan a separate business meeting at least 2–3 weeks in advance. This gives members time to prepare and attend.
You may also be asked to give a group update at your district meeting. Feel free to include relevant details like:
Meeting changes
Attendance trends
Upcoming events
Challenges or concerns
Milestones or anniversaries
Use whatever approach works best for your group.
Taking an Informed Group Conscience
Before voting at District or Area meetings, try to get your group’s input. Use your regular business meeting if possible, or speak with members before or after your regular meeting. If time is short, let members know you’ll revisit the topic next time or invite a guest to help explain complex issues.
If you can’t get group input in time, you’re trusted to vote using your best judgment as their representative.
Helpful Terms
GSR – General Service Representative (you!)
GSO – General Service Office, New York
GSC – General Service Conference (annual North American meeting of Delegates)
GSB – General Service Board (21 Trustees overseeing A.A. services)
Trustees – 14 alcoholic (Class B) and 7 nonalcoholic (Class A) board members
Third Legacy Procedure – The method used to elect trusted servants
Twelve Concepts – Principles guiding A.A.’s world service structure
I am responsible. When anyone, anywhere, reaches out for help, I want the hand of A.A. always to be there. And for that: I am responsible.