As our Statement of Purpose makes clear, BTG helps support that vital first step from the safe and focused recovery program, hospital or institution back to the responsibilities and routine of everyday life at home. Sometimes that home is an SLE, sometimes a shelter, sometimes back to the house and family where they hit bottom.
Our experience has taught us that when alcohol is removed and the alcoholic is in early recovery, it can feel like all the troubles have gone and they can stand strong on their own and return to modern life. The reality is that getting to know people in the meeting where they live is vital to early recovery, before they return to life with brand new coping skills that are still in development.
This is where the BTG Temporary Contact comes in. Our purpose is to meet a newcomer at meetings where they will be attending meetings and introduce them to our community there. “Where is your next meeting? OH, so-and-so goes to that meeting! Let me introduce you so you have a familiar face.” Things like that. It’s a good idea to meet them at several meetings their first week out, introduce them to different types of meetings, explain what is happening if they have not been before and make sure they meet our happy, joyous and free AA members.
The hope is that they will see how easy and beneficial meetings are and maybe they will even find a sponsor that first week. At the very least, they will have contacts and resources and hopefully a strong kickoff to their life outside the recovery facility.
Honestly, sometimes you will reach out to someone and they will keep in contact for a while or go to one meeting or never call or text or meet you. THAT’S OK, and it’s normal. Some people are not ready and nothing we can do or say will make that happen. Do your due diligence and stay sober yourself. That is the best you can do.
When you sign up as a volunteer, you are considered part of the BTG committee. YAY! Please announce or share BTG with other members, so they may be involved, or maybe you know of a facility we are not presenting in, let us know! No matter who the current District Chair person is, you can always reach out here to contact us. And if you would like to experience an even MORE rewarding opportunity, consider being of service on the committee as a phone coordinator or co-chair or liaison or presenter in facilities.
In any case, WELCOME and thank you for your service. As you fill out the form, please use your “city” as the place you most attend meetings. If you would like to include other cities, or if you have anything else to add, please include it in the notes field of the form. Someone will reach out to you soon to answer all your questions and make sure you have their contact information for future reference.
Thank you for your service!!