GaL-AA "Spotlight on Sobriety" 07/06/2025

Steve N.
6 days ago
4 min read

In this week's publication:

GaL-AA Supporting Member Platform
Chairpersons' Message
Celebrating Members July Anniversaries
New Podcase - 2025 Conv GaL-AA Welcome Meeting
New Convention Volunteer T-Shirt

GaL-AA Launches Supporting Member Platform

Like all groups in our fellowship, GaL-AA is self-supporting. Following the 7th Tradition, we do not accept donations from non-AA members, other 12 step programs, treatment facilities, non-AA groups, roundups, and clubs. GaL-AA’s only source of revenue is contributions from groups and individuals.

The challenge we face is we have seen a decline in contributions for many years. In 2024, we saw 24% decline, and in 2025, we are projecting another 10% decline to $4867.

Gal-AA’s regular expenses run about $7,554 annually. In years of an International Convention, like this year, expenses shoot up dramatically to $22,535. While generally stable, expenses are trending upward. We look for every opportunity to spend your funds prudently and try to avoid dipping into our reserves, but every five years we have little choice. This is why we have reserves and a long-term financial strategy.

Our executive committee members on GaL-AA’s board are volunteers and receive no compensation. Each board member pays for their own airfare, transportation and meals to attend meetings and convention activities.

So, with revenue down and stable expenses, GaL-AA lost $2457 in 2024. We were blessed with a one-time gift from inside the fellowship that resulted in an overall surplus for the year. Surpluses are commonplace in the fellowship, and we are grateful for what we have to help us through the tough years.

With the downward contribution trend continuing, GaL-AA is launching a supporting member platform that allows individuals who would like to support our mission to do so on a monthly or annual basis. If you are interested in supporting us, please go to our member page on our website.

Lastly, to ensure our success, we have updated our financial policies to guarantee transparency of financial and operational reporting, along with safeguards to protect the integrity of our reporting systems. We post our financial statements on our website monthly along with our monthly meeting minutes. We believe that we are doing the best we can as responsible guardians of your funds. If you have any questions, please email me at treasurer@gal-aa.org.

In service,

Jim D.

Treasurer

June 2025

Chairperson's Message

After years of meticulous planning, visits, fundraising and preparation, GaL-AA gathered in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, to participate in the 2025 International Convention held from July 3-6, 2025. This milestone event commemorated the 90th anniversary of Alcoholics Anonymous. The AA International Convention, a celebrated occasion that occurs every five years, featured a variety of enriching activities.

GaL-AA took center stage with several prominent events, including three LGBTQ+ AA

GaL-AA Hospitality Suite — Hospitality Suite

panels, an AA Welcome Meeting, a Hospitality Suite and an exuberant dance celebration. A landmark moment of this year’s convention was the first-ever panel dedicated to transgender individuals, reflecting the organization's commitment to inclusivity and progress. One of our board members, Luz G, participated as a member on this panel.

image - rear picture from Welcome Meeting — Rear picture from the Welcome Meeting. Faces blured out.

The AA Welcome Meeting on Thursday evening drew a large audience, with four speakers addressing the theme of hope during 20-minute segments. Following these inspiring talks, attendees enjoyed a lively round of Family Feud, fostering fellowship and connection. The Hospitality Suite, situated on the top floor of the Fairmont Hotel, offered breathtaking views of Vancouver’s skyline, mountains and harbor through expansive floor-to-ceiling windows. The suite provided a warm, welcoming environment for guests from across the globe to meet and bond in meaningful ways.

On Saturday night, after the big meeting at BC Place, the convention center was transformed into a dazzling dance venue organized by GaL-AA’s Vancouver host committee. The room pulsed with energy as hundreds of attendees danced under vibrant lights, waving glow sticks in celebration.

Vancouver 7/3/2025 — Vancouver - Beautiful Weather

The evening blended high-energy festivity with a sense of serene camaraderie that exemplified the convention’s spirit. In the connecting foyer, a piano area offered a quieter space for musical interludes, striking a thoughtful balance between the lively atmosphere of the dance floor and moments of heartfelt connection. The night was alive with laughter and joy, leaving attendees with unforgettable memories. During the Ms/Mr Sobriety World pageant, a new queen was crowned. Anil P. aka Chanelta, from LA, raised the most money ever by a contestant in the history of the pageant.

Image - GaL-AA back drop at the Hospitality Suite — Backdrop @ the Hospitality Suite

The 2025 AA International Convention stood as a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of recovery, unity and service. Participants left inspired and deeply connected, while excitement now builds for future milestones: the 2030 convention in St. Louis and the 100th anniversary celebration in Indianapolis, Indiana. These forthcoming gatherings promise to continue honoring the legacy and vision of Alcoholics Anonymous, fostering hope and fellowship for years to come

Pierre B.

GaL-AA Interim Chair