What is AA?
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is a free, worldwide support group for individuals struggling with alcohol addiction. Based on the 12 Steps and 12 Traditions, AA offers a structured, peer-led approach to recovery. For those living in Ohio, Franklin, or Columbus, information about local meetings and support options can be found at https://www.wfmh.org/aa/ohio/franklin/columbus, which serves as a helpful resource for anyone beginning their journey to sobriety. Local meetings are open to all, regardless of age, background, or financial situation, and provide a welcoming environment filled with encouragement and hope for lasting recovery.
651 W Broad Street, Columbus, OH 43215
The Central Ohio Group Fellowship (COGF), located at 651 W Broad Street, Columbus, OH 43215, is one of the oldest AA intergroups in the world, serving 37 Central and Southeastern Ohio counties since 1949. Their central office is open Monday through Friday from 9:00am to 5:00pm and Saturdays from 9:00am to 1:00pm, but AA meetings at various locations are held throughout the day across the city. They offer a wide variety of meeting formats, including open and closed meetings, speaker meetings, discussion groups, and newcomer sessions, and maintain an up-to-date schedule of meetings and special events online.
To find specific meeting times at this or any other Columbus location, you can call their 24-hour hotline at 614-253-8501 or use the COGF website for the latest meeting information. The COGF office also coordinates literature distribution, provides a newsletter, and helps AAs find service opportunities within the fellowship.
1340 Crest Rd, Reynoldsburg, OH 43068 (Reynoldsburg Saturday Night Group)
The Reynoldsburg Saturday Night Group is held at 1340 Crest Rd, Reynoldsburg, OH 43068, and is listed as a Big Book meeting, concurrent with Al-Anon meetings, and is open to anyone wishing to attend. Big Book meetings focus on reading and studying the basic text of Alcoholics Anonymous, providing insights into the program’s principles and stories of recovery. Attendees are encouraged to participate in discussions and support each other in an open, welcoming environment.
This meeting is one of many in the greater Columbus area, offering a specific focus on the Big Book and additional support through concurrent Al-Anon meetings (for families and friends of alcoholics). Meeting schedules can change, so it’s best to check with the group directly or refer to online directories for the latest details.
501 Josephine Ave, Columbus, OH 43085 (Primary Purpose Group Columbus)
The Primary Purpose Group Columbus meets at 501 Josephine Ave, Columbus, OH 43085, and is characterized as open and wheelchair accessible. As Bill Sees It discussions focus on selected readings from AA literature, offering perspective and shared experiences to reinforce sobriety. Meetings are open to anyone interested in learning about AA, including newcomers and those supporting loved ones.
Accessibility is a priority at this location, with accommodations for people with mobility needs, and the group is known for a diverse and friendly atmosphere. Meeting formats often include structured readings, open discussion, and an emphasis on the practical application of AA’s principles in daily life.
The 12 Steps of AA
- We admitted we were powerless over alcohol—that our lives had become unmanageable. This first step encourages honesty and self-recognition of the problem, marking the beginning of recovery.
- Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity. Members acknowledge the need for a spiritual or higher power to help guide their recovery.
- Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood Him. Choosing to surrender control and trust a higher power is central to this step.
- Made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves. Members thoroughly examine their character, behaviors, and past, preparing for growth.
- Admitted to God, to ourselves, and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs. Sharing personal inventory with another person fosters honesty, humility, and recovery progress.
- Were entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character. Readiness to change is a key milestone in the recovery process.
- Humbly asked Him to remove our shortcomings. Members seek help in overcoming personal defects through humility.
- Made a list of all persons we had harmed and became willing to make amends to them all. This step involves creating a plan for making things right with those affected by one’s addiction.
- Made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others. Apologies and amends are made with careful consideration and compassion.
- Continued to take personal inventory and when we were wrong promptly admitted it. Ongoing self-reflection and accountability help maintain long-term sobriety.
- Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understood Him, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out. Spiritual growth and ongoing communication with a higher power are emphasized.
- Having had a spiritual awakening as the result of these Steps, we tried to carry this message to alcoholics and to practice these principles in all our affairs. Members share their experience, strength, and hope with others and apply AA principles in all aspects of life.
Getting Started with AA in Ohio, Franklin, Columbus, USA
The best way to find local AA meetings in the Columbus area is to visit wfmh.org, which provides a comprehensive and up-to-date directory of in-person and online meetings. This allows you to quickly search by location, time, and meeting type, ensuring you can find the right fit for your needs. Most locations offer both traditional meetings and virtual options via phone or video conference, making AA accessible nearly anywhere, anytime.
Attending Your First Local AA Meeting
AA meetings in Ohio, Franklin, and Columbus are categorized as either open or closed. Open meetings welcome anyone—including friends, family, and those curious about AA—while closed meetings are for those who have a desire to stop drinking or are already in the program.
| Meeting Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Open | For everyone interested in learning about AA, including family, friends, and newcomers. |
| Closed | Only for those who have a desire to stop drinking; a confidential, supportive environment. |
When attending your first meeting, it is helpful to arrive a few minutes early and let someone know you are new; you will be greeted warmly and receive a welcome keychain tag that celebrates recovery milestones. Here are some of the milestone tags you may receive:
- 30 Days: Recognizing the first month of sobriety, often presented with encouragement and applause.
- 60 Days: Marking two months of continuous sobriety and continued progress.
- 90 Days: Celebrating a quarter-year of sobriety and increasing stability in recovery.
- 180 Days (6 Months): Honoring half a year of sobriety and ongoing personal growth.
- 1 Year: A major milestone, often recognized with a medallion and the opportunity to share one’s story.
- Multi-Year Milestones: Some groups recognize annual anniversaries with special medallions.
Sharing your experiences is encouraged but never required—participate as much or as little as you feel comfortable. AA is a judgment-free zone, and no advance reservation is needed to attend. Just show up and take the first step toward recovery in your community.