Corrections Temporary Contact Program FAQ

Q: What do I do when it's time to make contact with a newcomer who is being released from prison?

A: You will be given the inmate's name and address, and are asked to write to him or her within three days. In keeping with AA's Responsibility Declaration (see below), we want to make sure that AA responds promptly when someone reaches out for help. Encourage the newcomer to write back and tell you his story. Continue to write as often as necessary to communicate the AA message and, if possible, visit the inmate in the facility.

Q: What does the newcomer expect of me?

A: The newcomer should expect you to attend a meeting with him on the first day of release. (Experience has shown that attending a meeting the first day of release is crucial to the newcomer's post-release recovery). Encourage the newcomer to attend as many meetings as possible for the first few weeks, and familiarize him with the Big Book, Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions, and other AA literature. The temporary contact's goal is to help the newcomer find a home group and a permanent sponsor who will guide him through the AA recovery program outlined in the first 164 pages of the Big Book.

Q: Am I expected to help with outside issues such as employment, etc.?

A: No. AA's Seventh Tradition says we should be "self supporting." This applies not only to AA as a whole, but also to our individual recovery. Once the newcomer finds sobriety, s/he is capable of dealing with employment, housing and other living necessities. It is important for the newcomer's recovery that s/he takes responsibility for his own affairs.

You may be working with someone who has problems other than alcohol. In keeping with AA's First, Third and Tenth Traditions, please refrain from negative comments about other addictions, prescription drugs, AA groups and/or members, as well as correctional facilities. As stated in the AA Preamble, our primary purpose is to stay sober and help other alcoholics to achieve sobriety.

"Practical experience shows that nothing will so much insure immunity from drinking as intensive work with other alcoholics." (Alcoholics Anonymous, p.89)

Thank you for your interest in the Corrections Temporary Contact Program! Your Twelfth Step work will help bridge the slippery gap between the doors of correctional facilities and the rooms of Alcoholics Anonymous.

Please email us with any other questions.

Click here to sign up as a Corrections Temporary Volunteer!