After seeking sobriety for herself, Kirkpatrick discovered there were no program available that dealt specifically with issues faced by female alcoholics, so she began Women For Sobriety to address their needs as she saw them.
"Women's recovery needs are quite different from those of the male alcoholic. Men and women's attitudes have always been different. So, too, their problems. Not to recognize this is to deny recovery to the thousands. It is unconscionable," write Kirpatrick in articles on the WFS web site. "There is a vast difference between men and women in recovery and their differences must be taken into consideration and dealt with for women to effect a lasting sobriety and recovery from alcoholism."
New Life
Based upon a Thirteen Statement Program of positivity that encourages emotional and spiritual growth, the "New Life" Program tries to help women overcome their alcoholism and learn a wholly new lifestyle.Women for Sobriety is not affiliated with Alcoholics Anonymous. Members of Women for Sobriety sometimes belong to AA, but the web site states, each organization has its individual purpose and should be kept separated. As a Program, it can stand alone or be used along with other programs.
The program is abstinence-based and has the philosophy: forget the past, plan for tomorrow and live for today. Membership requires a desire to stop drinking and a "sincere desire for a new life."
Self-Help Groups
Women For Sobriety has self-help groups throughout the world which usually meet in the homes of members and facilitated by a group moderator. The web site a section describing how WFS meetings work and a process for members to become a group moderator.WFS also has developed an online Pen Pal Program for the benefit of members who need extra support or who may not have a WFS meeting available in their area.
The web site also has a bookstore section where members and anyone interested in the program and order books and tapes.
