We are deeply grateful for those who step forward to help develop or lead run meetings that use the TS-12 Anon literature. Your willingness to serve not only strengthens our community but also creates a safe and healing space for others to grow. Whether you are guiding a group, fostering connections, or simply offering your time and energy, your contribution is invaluable. It takes courage, compassion, and commitment to take on these roles, and we honor the difference you make in the lives of those seeking hope and support.
Thank you for being an essential part of this meaningful work.
About TS-12 Anon Meetings:
TS-12 Anon meetings are autonomous and self-governing. Each meeting is an independent entity, guided by the shared principles of support, healing, and growth.
Support Circle-Run Groups:
Support Circle-run groups are peer-led, grassroots communities that foster mutual support, encouragement, and understanding among members. Led by the “Support Circle,” these groups provide a powerful space where individuals draw strength from each other’s shared experiences and progress. Together, members celebrate growth, learn from one another, and create a network that reinforces the healing journey for everyone involved.
Funding:
Each group is responsible for its own funding, including costs for meeting spaces (inexpensive or free options like churches may be available) or online platforms like Zoom. Financial assistance may be available for new or financially struggling groups to help cover costs such as meeting locations or technology. For more information, please go to the Meeting Scholarship page.
Leadership:
It is recommended that TS-12 Anon groups utilize the structure of Support Circles, which typically include three or more members who take on the roles of Moderator, Co-Moderator, and Secretary. Also, there can be additional leadership such as someone who welcomes newcomers, a treasurer, or a librarian should group members choose to have a recovery library.
Group Consciences
Group Consciences are a democratic and inclusive process used to make decisions that affect the entire group. They address matters such as selecting leadership roles, determining meeting times and locations, managing financial issues, and adjusting group policies. Every member present during a Group Conscience is encouraged to participate, fostering shared responsibility and unity. Voting methods can vary based on the group's preference, including a simple show of hands for transparency or anonymous voting, such as written ballots or online tools, for privacy. Moderators or designated leaders typically facilitate the process to ensure discussions remain organized and respectful. Group Consciences may be scheduled regularly or held as needed to address evolving group needs, with members encouraged to seek their Higher Power’s guidance before voting. By relying on this collaborative approach, groups ensure decisions reflect the collective will, promoting a supportive and harmonious environment for all members.
Meeting Script:
For resources on running a group, including a sample meeting format and script, please see the page for Suggested Meeting Scripts.
Phone List:
Keeping an updated phone list is critical for the support of group members. This role can be assigned to any member of the Support Circle, and is typically the responsibility of the secretary. A phone list can be a physical list that is passed around, or it can be a list that is populated, such as is the case with a Google Form.
Mentorship
Mentorship is encouraged as part of working the TS-12 Anon program. A mentor serves as an experienced guide, offering direction, support, and encouragement while respecting each individual’s unique healing journey. Mentors support mentees by sharing their experiences, strength, and hope, but they do not take on roles like therapist or spiritual leader. Mentors focus on helping mentees build a direct relationship with their Higher Power, the steps, and professional support when needed. Healthy mentor-mentee relationships are based on mutual respect and clear boundaries.
In therapy groups or similar environments where everyone is at a similar healing stage, mentorship may be less practical. In these cases, we encourage building connections within the group itself.
Choosing a Mentor
Selecting a mentor is a personal decision. Seeking Higher Power’s guidance in this process can help identify a good fit. Mentorship is most effective when built on safety, trust, and mutual understanding.
Open vs. Closed Meetings T
S-12 Anon meetings can be structured as either open or closed, depending on the group’s needs and preferences.
Open Meetings
In general, Support Circle- run groups are open meetings which are accessible to the public and may focus on specific populations (e.g., individuals affected by another’s suicide or men who experienced childhood sexual abuse). Open to anyone qualifying within the defined category.
Closed Meetings
Limited to specific groups (e.g., church members, group therapy participants). Provides a private, focused environment tailored to the group’s needs.
TS-12 Anon supports transparency and organization by requesting basic information about meetings.
-Open Meetings: Listed on the website to connect individuals with support.
-Closed Meetings: Information is kept internal and not publicly shared.
TS-12 Anon retains discretion over which meetings are listed on the website to better ensure alignment with its inclusive, prodependent, and trauma-sensitive principles.
