The Challenge of the Seventh Tradition

The Challenge of the Seventh Tradition

Dear Members,

As we continue our journey together in Alcoholics Anonymous, it’s important to reflect on the significance of “passing the basket.” This practice not only helps cover our group’s expenses but also allows us to contribute to A.A. as a whole, ensuring we can carry the message of hope to those still suffering from alcoholism.

 

Understanding A.A. Services

Bill W. famously said, "There was a place in A.A. where spirituality and money would mix, and that was in the hat.” The General Service Board emphasizes that our financial support should primarily come from our contributions, rather than relying on outside sources. While it’s great that our literature reaches a wider audience, we must ensure that our own members fund our services.

When you place your contributions in the basket, you support vital Twelfth Step work, including literature, audiovisual materials, and outreach efforts. If we fully rely on member contributions, we can sell literature at cost, making our message even more accessible.

 

A Brief History of Self-Support

In the early days of A.A., external donations were sought to help the fledgling fellowship. However, by 1947, Bill recognized that A.A. needed to be self-supporting. He emphasized that voluntary contributions from members should be our main source of funding, fostering goodwill within the community.

In 1949, A.A. clarified that contributions were voluntary and essential for operational costs. A plea from Bill in 1950 highlighted the importance of these contributions for assisting newcomers.

By 1957, Bill urged members to respect the balance between outside contributions and self-support, reminding us that A.A. can only thrive if we consistently support our groups.

 

The Reality Check

Take a look at the following comparison that illustrates how inflation has outpaced our contributions over the years:

Year	Coffee	Soda	Gasoline	Cigarettes	Inflation	A.A. Basket
1960	0.34	0.10	0.22	0.25	1.00	1.00
1970	0.44	0.13	0.65	0.65	1.31	1.00
1980	0.94	0.28	0.90	1.40	2.78	1.00
1990	1.49	0.44	1.30	2.00	4.42	1.00
2010	2.48	0.74	2.78	6.50	7.37	1.00
2024	4.90	1.06	3.52	7.93	10.64	1.00

A Dollar Doesn’t Do It Anymore

As the cost of living continues to rise, we must recognize that our contributions need to reflect this reality. Let’s commit to supporting our fellowship, ensuring we can continue to carry the message of hope to those who need it most.

 

Thank you for your continued support!

 

In love and Service,
Area 53 - General Service