Item 1: Newcomers & 3rd Tradition

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Item 1: Newcomers & 3rd Tradition – Discussion and Voting  Process

October 1,2026
Today is Thursday, the first day of the meeting.
We have Friday, Saturday, and Sunday to submit all discussion points.

Please do not vote in advance. During the first part of the process. We will discuss the item.
After the third day, I will call for a vote.

Discussion of the first item is now underway.

Newcomers and the Third Tradition

Purpose: Clarify how newcomers may affirm adherence to the Third Tradition.
Discussion: Determine whether expressing a desire to stop drinking or acknowledging a problem with alcohol is sufficient; consider newcomer confusion and concerns about the current request.
Submitted by: Rachel S.

1a. Current Inquiry Pattern
GROW has recently received many emails from women asking how to “get a sponsor.” These messages are inquiries about sponsorship, not requests to join the group.

Current Response
GROW currently replies with its standard initial email, which:
Provides general information about the group and
asks recipients to follow the Third Tradition, as referenced in item one.

Question for GROW: Should GROW create a separate response specifically for women who are asking about obtaining a sponsor?

Agenda Item 1: Voting

Everyone agrees that we want to provide helpful guidance to anyone who reaches out for support. The discussion centers on the phrase “adhering to.” Some members favor adding a clarifying sentence, while others prefer to keep the statement as currently written.

Part 1: Tradition Three Wording:

Please review the following options and vote for one:

  • Keep the current wording: GROW leaves the Tradition Three statement unchanged.
  • Revise the wording: GROW adds a clarifying sentence to the membership letter or replaces “adhere” with another term, such as “abide by,” “comply with,” “follow,” or “agree to.” These alternatives are suggestions only

Part 2: Sponsor Lists for Non Members

Please vote for one of the following options:

  • Yes: If a nonmember requests a sponsor list, GROW will provide it.
  • No: GROW will not provide a sponsor list to anyone who is not a member.
  • No, with a referral: GROW will not provide the sponsor list to a nonmember, but will direct the person to a GROW member on the 12-Step call list.

Voting deadline: Please submit all votes by Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. EST.

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