Online and phone meetings make it difficult to “pass the basket.” Some groups have set up digital contribution accounts with Venmo, PayPal, Google Pay, or others to deal with this challenge.
In response to several requests, Intergroup now has a Venmo account @BaltimoreIntergroup for the convenience of members and groups. Members might also consider becoming a becoming Faithful Fivers — meaning, they agree to a recurring contributions directly to Intergroup of $5 or more each month– or make a one-time contribution to Intergroup. We are grateful for your support in any amount.
Here are some reasons your groups might consider the 7th Tradition for online meetings:
- Our groups still have meeting expanses such as:
- The cost of subscriptions if your group is meeting via Zoom or another paid platform
- Paying rent at our meetings facilities where our supplies continue to be kept despite the fact that we can’t meet in person.
- Meeting supplies we may need after an extended closure. We may experience a large influx of people who are motivated to re-join the fellowship in person.
- Intergroup, Maryland General Service, and the General Service Office still have operating expenses such as:
- Websites – which we rely on more than ever!
- Phone lines, rent, and insurance
- Utility and other ongoing expenses
- Paid Special Workers who are working many hours to make information available to everyone during this pandemic. Their compensation is crucial to their ability to serve us.
Even though virtual connections is relatively inexpensive, the expenses of keeping our fellowship informed and connected continues. Each group is autonomous and might consider having a group conscience on whether digital contributions are an option, and which platform best meets their groups’ needs. If you have been helped by AA meetings, please consider continuing to practice our 7th Tradition and make contributions to the service entities that support your group.