11 Feb 2025

Overview of AA

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is a global support group dedicated to helping individuals struggling with alcohol addiction achieve and maintain sobriety. AA operates on a 12-step program that encourages members to share their experiences, support one another, and work towards personal growth and recovery. The program is free and welcomes anyone seeking help, regardless of background or beliefs. In Massachusetts, AA meetings are available in various locations, offering different formats to accommodate participants’ needs. To find a meeting near you, visit AA meetings MA.

AA Meeting Locations in Massachusetts

Boston AA Meetings

Address: 30 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02116
Meeting Times & Details:

  • Monday – Friday: 12:00 PM & 7:00 PM (Open Discussion)
  • Saturday – Sunday: 10:00 AM & 6:00 PM (Speaker & Big Book Study)
  • Meetings include in-person and hybrid options (in-person with online access).

Worcester AA Meetings

Address: 474 Grove St, Worcester, MA 01605
Meeting Times & Details:

  • Monday, Wednesday, Friday: 6:30 PM (Step Study & Newcomers’ Welcome)
  • Saturday: 9:00 AM (Men’s Meeting)
  • Sunday: 5:00 PM (Women’s Meeting)
  • Meetings focus on literature studies, personal experiences, and peer support.

Springfield AA Meetings

Address: 311 Chestnut St, Springfield, MA 01104
Meeting Times & Details:

  • Tuesday & Thursday: 7:00 PM (Open Discussion)
  • Saturday: 10:00 AM (Beginners’ Meeting)
  • Sunday: 8:00 PM (Speaker Meeting)
  • Various meeting formats include speaker-led discussions and topic-based sharing.

The 12 Steps of AA

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) follows a structured 12-step program designed to guide individuals toward recovery and long-term sobriety. These steps provide a spiritual and practical framework for overcoming alcohol addiction, fostering self-awareness, accountability, and support from others. The program is widely available across Massachusetts, helping members make positive changes in their lives.

The 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous

  1. Admitting Powerlessness – Acknowledge that alcohol has taken control and that help is needed to regain stability.
  2. Believing in a Higher Power – Recognize that a greater force, whether spiritual or personal, can assist in recovery.
  3. Turning Life Over to a Higher Power – Make a decision to trust in guidance beyond oneself for strength.
  4. Conducting a Moral Inventory – Reflect honestly on past behaviors, weaknesses, and mistakes.
  5. Admitting Wrongs to Another Person – Share personal faults and struggles with someone trusted, fostering accountability.
  6. Being Ready for Change – Accept the need for personal transformation and the removal of negative traits.
  7. Asking for Help in Change – Seek support in overcoming flaws and destructive tendencies.
  8. Listing Those Harmed – Identify individuals affected by past behaviors and prepare to make amends.
  9. Making Direct Amends – Actively reach out to those harmed, except when doing so could cause further harm.
  10. Continuing Self-Reflection – Commit to regular self-examination and promptly admit mistakes.
  11. Seeking Spiritual Growth – Engage in prayer, meditation, or reflection to strengthen personal development.
  12. Helping Others – Share experiences and support others in their journey toward recovery.

Getting Started with AA in Massachusetts

Finding a local Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meeting in Massachusetts is simple. The easiest way to locate a meeting is by using the meeting search tool on methadone.org, which provides up-to-date listings of in-person and virtual meetings across the state. Many cities in Massachusetts offer daily AA meetings, allowing individuals to choose the format that best suits their needs. Whether attending a face-to-face meeting at a community center or joining a virtual session from home, there are options available for everyone seeking recovery.

Attending Your First Local AA Meeting

AA meetings in Massachusetts are categorized as either open or closed, ensuring accessibility for all individuals at different stages of their journey.

Meeting Types in Massachusetts

Meeting Type Description
Open Meetings Open to anyone, including non-alcoholics who wish to learn more about AA, such as friends, family, and supporters.
Closed Meetings Reserved for individuals who identify as having a drinking problem and are seeking help through the AA program.

What to Expect at Your First Meeting

  • Arrive a few minutes early to meet members and get comfortable.
  • Introduce yourself as a new attendee if you feel comfortable.
  • Share your experiences or simply listen—participation is voluntary.
  • Receive a welcome keychain tag as a symbol of your commitment to recovery.

AA Keychain Tag Milestones

  • 30 Days – First month of sobriety.
  • 60 Days – Two months of dedication.
  • 90 Days – Three-month achievement.
  • 6 Months – Half a year of sobriety.
  • 9 Months – Significant progress towards one year.
  • 1 Year – A full year of recovery and growth.
  • Multiple Years – Special tags for long-term sobriety milestones.