Since 1986, when Intergroup 17 – the local central office – was formed, it has been managed by and financially supported by the contributions of AA groups in Marion County. Intergroup “carries the message” in ways that single groups, acting alone, might find difficult.

What does Intergroup do?

But the strength of AA is communication between two or more alcoholics. This, then, is the most important part of Intergroup’s purpose – the sharing of information, of suggesting direction, of providing help, of being available.

Each weekday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., there is a volunteer in the office. Typically, this is a person with at least a year’s sobriety who has good knowledge of AA and its principles. He or she responds to telephone inquiries and visitors, providing answers to a range of questions - from the simple “Where is there a meeting tonight?” to “My son is a heavy drinker. What can I do?” A call may be from one who is drunk and is seeking help, or from someone who wants AA members to visit him at his or her home. The office person can direct an AA “12 step person” to contact such individuals and to respond to their needs as appropriate.

Office personnel have directories which enable them to provide information on the alcohol treatment programs available in Marion County. They can provide location and telephone numbers of other Intergroup offices within the USA and Canada, and of group meetings not only in Marion County, but in some of the adjacent counties.

The office volunteer can discuss and explain the AA program to those not familiar with it.

During hours when the office is not attended, AA members answer the phone.

Click here to view Intergroup 17's Constitution and By-Laws