There are millions of members in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) today, a community dedicated to helping individuals maintain their sobriety. This organization is often one of the first resources recommended to anyone struggling with addiction and seeking to get sober. But Alcoholics Anonymous had humble beginnings; this massive program all started as a meeting between two men, both of whom were alcoholics, looking for peace from their addictions. On June 10, 1935, they found that peace in their meeting and began one of the most recognizable resources for alcoholics and their families.

It all began when a stockbroker named Bill Wilson, who was struggling with alcoholism and trying to stay sober, attended a business meeting in Akron, Ohio. During his trip, he found the urge to drink becoming unbearable. A friend from The Oxford Group, a non-denominational Christian organization, introduced him to Dr. Robert Smith, another alcoholic facing similar challenges. What started as a brief conversation turned into a meeting that lasted over five hours. Both men were amazed by the power of their discussion and the support they provided each other. They managed to resist their cravings, and from that meeting emerged the idea for Alcoholics Anonymous—a free support group for individuals struggling with alcoholism.

Today, Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) serves millions of members in over 180 countries. The “12 Steps” program is translated into more than 100 languages and is available to anyone who requests it. Meetings are held frequently, and there is no pressure to attend—no payment is required, and attendance is not mandatory. Members participate because they believe that the support from their peers is one of the most effective ways to maintain sobriety.