A.A. District 18

La Mirada

Whittier

La Habra

Hacienda Heghts

A.A. District 18

General Service Representative (GSR)

Overview

The role of a General Service Representative (GSR) is vital in connecting A.A. groups with the broader A.A. structure. GSRs serve as the link between their home group and the General Service Conference, ensuring that the group’s voice is heard in decisions affecting A.A. as a whole.

Key Responsibilities of a GSR

Acting as a Liaison:

    • Communication Channel: GSRs communicate their group’s conscience and concerns to the district, area, and the General Service Conference. They also bring back important information and updates from these bodies to their home group.
    • Reporting Back: After attending district and area meetings, GSRs provide detailed reports to their home group, keeping members informed about developments within A.A.

Participating in Service Structure:

    • Attending Meetings: GSRs regularly attend district meetings and area assemblies to represent their group’s views and vote on issues.
    • Voting Delegate: At the area assembly, GSRs may elect area delegates who will represent the entire area at the General Service Conference.

Carrying the Group Conscience:

    • Group Feedback: GSRs gather feedback from their group on various issues and topics. They ensure that their group’s opinions are accurately represented in discussions and votes.
    • Facilitating Group Conscience Meetings: GSRs help organize and facilitate group conscience meetings to discuss significant issues and gather input from all members.

Educating and Informing:

    • Service Information: GSRs educate their group about A.A.’s service structure, Traditions, and Concepts. They help members understand how the service structure operates and how they can get involved.
    • Workshops and Events: GSRs encourage group members to attend service workshops, area events, and conventions to learn more about A.A. service opportunities.

Supporting the Group:

    • Resource Person: GSRs act as a resource for their group, providing information about A.A. literature, guidelines, and service opportunities.
    • Problem Solving: GSRs assist their group in solving problems or addressing concerns by bringing these issues to the attention of district or area committees.

 

Importance of a GSR

  • Maintaining Unity: GSRs help maintain unity within A.A. by ensuring that their group’s voice is heard and considered in broader decisions. This fosters a sense of inclusion and participation.
  • Ensuring Representation: By representing their group’s conscience, GSRs ensure that decisions made at the district, area, and conference levels reflect the collective views and needs of A.A. members.
  • Promoting Service Involvement: GSRs inspire and encourage other members to get involved in service work, enhancing the overall strength and vitality of the fellowship.

Qualities of an Effective GSR

  • Commitment: A strong commitment to their group’s welfare and to the broader A.A. community is essential.
  • Communication Skills: Good listening and communication skills help GSRs accurately convey their group’s conscience and understand feedback from the service structure.
  • Knowledge of A.A. Principles: A solid understanding of A.A.’s Traditions, Concepts, and service structure enables GSRs to effectively navigate their role.

Conclusion

The General Service Representative (GSR) is a pivotal role in A.A., bridging the gap between individual groups and the larger A.A. service structure. By serving as the voice of their group and participating in the broader decision-making process, GSRs contribute significantly to the unity and effectiveness of Alcoholics Anonymous. Engaging in this service position offers an enriching opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the fellowship and its mission of helping alcoholics achieve sobriety.