New members of Alcoholics Anonymous soon learn about the importance of twelfth step work-service to another alcoholic that helps both giver and receiver to stay sober. They then see such work broadened to include central office or intergroup service, institutions, committee service and finally, General Service. What are they?

In Bill W’s introduction to The Service Manual, he tells how general service grew to fill a need beyond the reach of individual, group, and Intergroup. Today, the term “general service” is applied to all kinds of activities within the conference structure, carried on by area committees, delegates, trustees, and G.S.O. staff. Usually the services affect the fellowship as a whole. Almost always, they are part of A.A.’ s distinctive unity, which allows the fellowship to function so well.