Support from Others –

It is strongly suggested that you get others, outside of your immediate family, to help and support you in starting a meeting.  This will ensure that others will be attending the meeting plus have someone to cover for you in case of illness, vacation, addiction related emergencies, etc.  History has shown that having the support of other committed persons can save a meeting from closing when low attendance or other challenges arise.

Commitment –

It can easily take 6–12 months for a meeting to be strong and vibrant.  Some meetings struggle with low attendance for years.  Many newcomers that attend will decide not to come back after a few meetings.  Leaders and support members must be willing to carry on through these periods of low meeting attendance.

Plan ahead.  If you find yourself alone during a meeting, you can utilize the time to familiarize yourself with the GLS (Guide to Local Services), the SESH and little Blue Book, Outreach or your personal growth.

Experience –

Ideally, leaders and support members will have many months working the Nar-Anon program and will have attended many meetings at other locations.  It is understandable that if you are in a smaller city or rural area with no other meetings within driving distance, that you may not have this experience.  Experience in Al-Anon or other 12 step programs would be helpful if Nar-Anon experience isn’t available.

It is also advisable that you have contact with others that have started meetings or have been active in the program for many years – someone that you can call for help or advice when needed.  Discussions with your Mentor in addition to participation in the monthly GSR Conference Call can offer both support and continuing education in the Nar-Anon program.

Next Section – Facility