One of our COVID Response Subcommittee's special projects is a care package program for AA newcomers and anyone else in need during the pandemic...
These care packages will be drawstring bags filled with many helpful items, including AA literature, informational pamphlets, a blank journal and pens, info about local hotlines and resources, things for your pocket (like brass coins and cards with prayers and readings), and a stress ball.
The intention for these packages is to help bring a little light to anyone who might be feeling stuck in the dark... Beginners to AA right now have less access to the things that have helped us stay sober when we first came to the program (like fellowship, hugs, and conversations before and after the meeting). It's harder to do things like build a network or find a sponsor, which is crucial to our success. Even for those of us who have been around a while, pandemic fatigue is no joke! We could all use a little extra support right now, so we hope these care packages will be a pick-me-up for anyone in need.
WOULD YOU LIKE A CARE PACKAGE FOR YOURSELF OR SOMEONE IN NEED?
If so, please reach out to our archives chair, Steve, to arrange a time to pick one up. You can reach him at archives@dutchessaa.org.
WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE OF SERVICE?
There is still work to be done on this project! Once the shipments of care package items have arrived, the bags will need to be assembled. If you have any interest in helping us with this task, please reach out to Steve at the email above.
Another way you can be of service is by being an available sponsor! If you have the 12 steps in your life and are available to sponsor, you can volunteer your information to be added to an available sponsor list that will be given to newcomers as one of many resources to help them stay sober during these trying times. Please email Alara at technology@dutchessaa.org with your first name, last initial, and phone number if you would like to be added to the sponsor list.
The other thing you can do is help us spread the word!!!!! Please announce the availability of these care packages for anyone in need during the AA-related announcements at any meetings you attend. Let them know that all the info is on our Dutchess County AA website.
If you are interested in joining our COVID Response Subcommittee, please contact technology@dutchessaa.org or you can attend our District 11 monthly business meeting on Zoom to find out more.
