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Full Text: Remote Communities Newsletter
General Service Office Database Presentation for Group Records
On Saturday afternoon, prior to the conference opening, I attended a demonstration from the GSO staff focused on the new database system for group records. This was a very informative session explaining the new Microsoft Access software being used for group information. This database application will offer more flexibility and detailed data fields. Instead of the dreaded printouts each year, we will now be able to update group information via disk. The target date for roll out of this new system will be mid May or early June.
Delegate's Only Meeting
I attended both Delegate's Only meetings held on Saturday and Tuesday evening. The Saturday night session is held prior to the conference opening so most of what is shared focuses on helping to orient the new Delegates. A presentation was given reviewing the committee reporting procedures, Conference voting procedures, confidentiality during committee deliberations, and wording of committee recommendations. Many second year Delegates shared their experiences from last year and some helpful tips they personally found useful. The spiritual process that was about to take place was clear in my mind.
The Tuesday evening session allowed for some open discussion from any Delegate present. There was a lot of sharing on background material and how areas distribute it. We also selected a new Delegate Chairperson and Alternate Delegate Chairperson for the 54th General Service Conference.
Remote Communities Meeting
The pre-conference meeting for Remote Communities was held on Sunday morning. I was fortunate enough to share a brief presentation on what we are doing in Area 36 to carry the message to communities where language, culture, geography or life condition, are barriers. Many other areas shared their experience on how they are overcoming these barriers to reach those still suffering from alcoholism.
Working to establish trust seemed to be the main focus in many areas. It was pointed out that one specific culture may be remote now, but may not be remote a year or two from now. I liked the idea one area shared in starting a "Nomad Group" and traveling around the area to different groups each week. They found this was a great way to meet new people and observe the diversity regarding language and culture.
There was also a sense from many of the areas in Canada where geography is a main focus that perhaps we are stretching and diluting the definition of remote communities. Area 59, eastern Pennsylvania, has established a Special Needs/Remote Communities Committee, which allows some flexibility in their efforts. British Columbia/Yukon, Area 79, holds mini-roundups or assemblies in portions of their area where service activity is sparse. I received many great ideas I will be sharing with our Remote Communities Committee Chair.