Tradition Five states that each group has one primary purpose, “to carry the message to the alcoholic who still suffers”. The A.A. service structure enables A.A. groups to reach still suffering alcoholics in ways which are too costly, in money or manpower, for one individual group to undertake.

     What group, however large, could publish a 575 page, hardbound book for $6.00? Compile and publish a directory of groups and contacts for travelers? Visit all the treatment centers in NE Ohio? Take meetings to all the jails in Northeastern Ohio?

     The A.A. service structure also enables individual groups to participate in the decision making process on issues which effect A.A. as a whole. By having an active GSR, a group can have a voice and a vote on important issues facing A.A. as a whole.

     The A.A. service structure is an inverted triangle with the groups at the top. Although sizes may vary widely, there are about fifteen groups in district. The GSRs in the district elect a District Committee Member (DCM). The DCM holds district meetings with their GSRs regularly.

     Each group sends its GSR to the Area Assembly along with the DCM. Together groups and districts share ideas, problems and solutions. A GSR can take the experience of other groups from the Area Assembly back to their group.

     Every Area sends a Delegate to the General Service Conference in New York City each April. At the Conference the experience of the A.A. group is shared with other groups through its Delegate. We need constant, honest communications from one part of A.A. to every other, furnishing a wide cross-section of A.A. experience on timely issues facing the Fellowship. The General Service Conference makes that possible.