DEER CREEK STATE PARK, OH — The 2026 Area 53 Mini-Conference has officially concluded, leaving attendees with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper connection to the General Service structure of Alcoholics Anonymous. From March 6th to 8th, GSRs, DCMs, and interested members from across Central and Southeast Ohio gathered at the Deer Creek Lodge and Conference Center to mimic the experience of the General Service Conference and help shape the future of our fellowship.
A Weekend of Informed Conscience
Under the leadership of Mini-Conference Chair and Alternate Delegate Marcia H., the weekend was packed with vital reports and spirited committee discussions. Highlights included:
- The GSO Report: Kelley C. from the General Service Office (Public Information desk) provided an inside look at the work being done at our headquarters in New York.
- Delegate Perspective: Our Area 53 Delegate, Joel K., shared insights that will be carried forward to the 76th General Service Conference (GSC) later this year.
- Committee Work: Attendees stepped into the roles of "delegates," working in committees such as Literature, Corrections, Agenda, and Public Information to review the same agenda items currently facing the GSC.
Sharing the Results
The collective conscience of the Area was captured through the committee recommendations and the voting sessions held on Saturday and Sunday. To ensure that every group in Area 53 can benefit from these discussions, we have compiled the morning committee reports and afternoon voting results.
Access the 2026 Mini-Conference Reuslts:
Google Drive Folder:
We Want Your Feedback
Your experience at the Mini-Conference is essential to our growth. If you haven't already, please take a moment to fill out our post-conference survey. Whether this was your first Mini-Conference or your twentieth, your feedback helps the planning committee improve the experience for next year.
Take the Survey:
Looking Ahead
- The information gathered this weekend serves a dual purpose: it informs our Delegate as they prepare to represent Area 53 in New York, and it empowers GSRs to bring back a thorough report to their home groups.
- A heartfelt thank you to all the Mini Conference Committee members, the hospitality "Gathering Room" hosts, and everyone who traveled to Deer Creek to participate in this vital act of service.
Remember... we do this to "insure the recovery of the alcoholic who still stumbles in the darkness, and the unborn child destined to alcoholism.
Want to get involved next year?
To get involved with the 2027 planning committee, please fill out the form here: