Tradition 7: Every group ought to be fully self-supporting, declining outside contributions.One of the principals of the 12 Step Support Groups is that each member is responsible for his or her own recovery. The first part of Tradition 7 makes it clear that responsibility extends to the members of each local group as it passes the basket for contributions to pay the rent and maintain its literature library.
If the group collects more than is necessary to meet its expenses, the group can contribute to its World Service Office, which also follows this tradition by accepting no outside contributions. Although such contributions have fallen off in recent years, they are important in helping to carry the message worldwide.
The second part of this tradition addresses the issue of the fellowship not becoming involved with outside issues or conflicts that could arise by accepting "outside contributions." If such contributions were accepted the group and its members might feel obligated to make some kind of concessions to the individual or organization making the donation. Declining these contributions keeps the fellowship independent from outside influences.
Visitors to the About.com Alcoholism site have taken their time to share their experiences with Tradition 7 in our 12 Steps and Traditions study on the bulletin board. Here are their comments:
More about Tradition 7
Responsibility
"It makes us responsible, some for the first time, to become a part of taking care of ourselves."Dignity
"We help maintain our own sobriety. We need only rely on ourselves and each other for the most precious gifts."A Case History
"We didn't and don't take money from outsiders, no matter how kind or well intentioned."
