[Businessmtg] Group Representative Info - Service Manual and GR specific resources shared recently by the GEA Chair

[Steve Rankin]

Thanks Anne.  

I would like to add just a bit to Anne's note.

1.  There is quite a bit of information about the GR position available in the Service Manual and Guideline (G-11) which are available for free download at https://al-anon.org/for-members/members-resources/manuals-and-guidelines/guidelines/. 
2.  As Anne said, the Alternate GR is a back-up for the GR.  The Alternate GR is NOT a Vice GR nor an Assistant GR with other duties.  Instead, the Alternate GR serves as the GR in the absence of the GR.  For example, the Alternate GR may attend Assemblies just like the GR, however since each Group has only one voice and vote, that voice & vote belongs to the GR unless the GR is unable to attend.  
3.  In addition to attending District Meetings and Area Assemblies, the Alternate GR has access to the same electronic media as the GR.  For example, the Alternate GR may belong to the groups.io Forum for GRs.  The idea is that the Alternate GR should be FULLY informed so that in the event of needing to stand in for the GR the Alternate GR is as well informed as the GR.
4.  Service Sponsor.  This can be a tremendously valuable resource, and is all too often overlooked by members new to Al-Anon service beyond the Group level.  Having direct access to someone that has years of experience in our service structure who can help unravel the sometime mysterious ways that Al-Anon service works can not only reduce the confusion, but help the newer service member understand the how's and why's of what is going on.  Equally important for the newer member is reconciling the "tension" and disruptions in Al-Anon business meetings with the concept that everyone loves everyone and we're all happy campers.  😊

Hugs,
Steve

-----Original Message-----
From: Businessmtg On Behalf Of Anne via Businessmtg
Sent: Tuesday, July 30, 2024 6:00 AM
To: steve at serenitysys.com
Cc: ASP Business <businessmtg at asp-afg.org>
Subject: [Businessmtg] Group Representative Info - Service Manual and GR specific resources shared recently by the GEA Chair

Good Morning friends….. last week the GEA had planned to run a workshop for current and potential GRs.  It was cancelled.  The GEA GRs, received some other information from Area leaders that I am sharing with you.

In all cases, you will see that the Alt GRs role is simply a backup to the GR.  We only have a couple of days left before closing the meeting.  I am hoping some of this information will spark a discussion.

G11.pdf (al-anon.org) <https://al-anon.org/pdf/G11.pdf>

 <https://al-anon.org/for-members/members-resources/manuals-and>
https://al-anon.org/for-members/members-resources/manuals-and

>From the GEA Chair:
Resources for Group Representatives
The following resources are of special interest to those interested in serving as Group Representatives.
Al-Anon World Service Conference Structure Graphic - A picture of the Al-Anon fellowship, commonly described as an inverted pyramid. View how the role of the Group Representative fits within the structure serving as the first link of the chain of service and communication that leads to the World Service Conference.
 <https://al-anon.org/pdf/WSC-Structure-Graphic-8_5x11.pdf> https://al-anon.
org/pdf/WSC-Structure-Graphic-8_5x11.pdf
2022-2025 Al-Anon/Alateen Service Manual (SP-24/27) Every Al‐Anon and Alateen member is encouraged to actively use and study this Manual. It gives a clear and concise picture of the Al‐Anon fellowship, its purpose and functions, and how it helps us to resolve group problems and maintain unity. It is available as PDF and as a free download.
The pages below include information specific for the GR role:
p. 59, 64, 73, 141, 143-146, 152-153
Free Download:
 <https://al-anon.org/for-members/members-resources/manuals-and>
https://al-anon.org/for-members/members-resources/manuals-and
-guidelines/service-manual/
PDF:
 <https://www.al-anon.org/pdf/P2427.pdf>
https://www.al-anon.org/pdf/P2427.pdf
Group Representatives Guideline (G‐11)
 <https://al-anon.org/pdf/G11.pdf> https://al-anon.org/pdf/G11.pdf
This guideline includes essential information on the GR role, including requirements, terms of office, duties, and helpful tools like a sample group business meeting agenda.
Service Sponsor
All interested in service would benefit from the special relationship with a Service Sponsor. It is very much like a personal sponsor, with whom you can discuss concerns about the service, learn skills, and discover options when carrying out GR duties.
Here are two excerpts from our Service Manual.
● “The Service Sponsor is an Al‐Anon member involved in service who guides a member in applying the Traditions and Concepts of Service, and shares their experience, strength, and hope from giving service to Al‐Anon.” (page 73) ● “This type of sponsorship can be a one‐time situation, such as an outgoing trusted servant supporting his/her replacement, or an ongoing relationship.” (page 45)
More information on these and other resources are available at  <https://al-anon.org/> https://al-anon.org/