General Policy
(Revised
1. Nominations for Area Service
Committee Officers should be solicited from the active GSRs.
2. ASC
Officers do not represent any Home Group and have no vote at ASC.
3. GSRs are the only regular voting members of the ASC. Alternate GSRs may vote in the
4. All ASC
Meetings are open to any Member of NA.
5. Only those Members listed
below can make or second motions:
v
v
RCM, or the Alternate RCM in the RCM’s absence
v
Vice Chairperson, Secretary, Treasurer,
Sub-Committee Chairs or their Alternates in the Sub-Committee Chair’s
absence and Archivist.
6. Only
those listed above have an automatic voice on the floor. Others may speak at the discretion of
the Chairperson. To be recognized
on the ASC Floor, a raised hand is always mandatory.
7. Quorum consists of one more
than half of the regular voting Members, and is required to hold an ASC Meeting.
Quorum is also required on all motions. A new Group becomes a "Regular
Voting Member at the 2nd ASC which its
8. All motions should be
submitted in writing whenever possible.
Motions dealing with an issue already on the Floor will be recognized by
the Chair and require a verbal second.
Following is the procedural sequence pertaining to motions:
v
The maker of the motion speaks to it’s
intent
v
Upon hearing the intent the Floor will be open
for discussion consisting of two pros and two cons only.
v
A simple majority is required to pass a motion,
except that motions that change policy require a 2/3 majority. Abstentions are counted with the
majority of voting members.
v
A Motion to Amend may be necessary and may be
made only by the maker of the original motion
v
A Motion to Table may be entertained after
hearing the pros and cons.
v
Motions and issues falling under the
responsibility of an existing Subcommittee will be Tabled to that Subcommittee
v
All Tabled motions automatically become part of
next months ASC Old Business.
v
The Treasurer must second any motions pertaining
to money.
9. Removal of Officers shall be dealt
with as follows:
v
Voluntary: Given in writing to ASC Chair prior to next ASC
meeting
v
Involuntary:
o
Two consecutive meetings missed without
reasonable explanation (reasonability to be determined by the ASC Body) or prior notice given to any Administrative
Committee Member.
o
Relapse during term.
v
Impeachment (needed in case of Concept violation
or failure to perform duties or responsibilities):
o
Notice of intent to pursue an Impeachment must
be provided 7 days prior to next ASC by Chairperson.
o
Motion must be prevented at ASC,
along with due cause (intent).
o
Respondent (person being Impeached) is given
time to respond.
o
An Open ballot is taken and 2/3 majority is
required for successful Impeachment.
10. GSRs will give their
Group’s donation to the Treasurer at each ASC.
11. All new Groups need to register with the Public
Information Subcommittee in order to be included in the meeting list and the
Helpline. When giving their
Group’s written report to the Secretary the new
12. All
Members of the ASC are responsible for acquainting
themselves with the Area Service Policy & Guidelines, and the Parliamentary
Procedure followed by the ASC.
13.
v
Day, Time and Place of Meeting;
v
Average Monthly Attendance at Meetings;
v
Situations, Problems or Changes
v
Number of Home Group Members
v
Amount of Literature Order
v
Amount of 7th Tradition Donation
v
Group Conscience Decisions
14. Subcommittee reports should be neatly
written or typed so the Secretary can have accurate notes and should consist of
the following:
v
Day, Time and Place of Meeting
v
Number attending
v
Committee Activities, Accomplishments, and
Specific Problems or Situations
v
Plans for the upcoming month
v
Meeting Minutes
v
Motions for Group Conscience
v
List of Income and Expense
15. Each Subcommittee should submit a list of
Goals and a Budget each year in August
16. Subcommittees
will be allowed to meet at what ever time they choose. Meaning their
meeting
times might well conflict with regularly scheduled NA meetings
17. In
the event that any two co-signers on the ASC checking
account resides in the same household,
only one will be permitted to continue as a
co-signer and a different Member of the Administrative Committee will replace
the other.
18. Budgets for Subcommittees will be submitted, reviewed and voted on by the ASC annually. The Subcommittee Budgets as of January 2007 are as follows:
v
Activities $200 seed money. Seed money to be
returned with all proceeds from an activity.
v
H&I $250 monthly
in literature
v Fellowship Development $200 Monthly plus $150 for the website when needed
v
Website $150 as needed
v
RCM two hotel rooms (one
per gender)every other month and mileage at a rate of 50% of the allowable
v
TCCNA $4,000 seed
money (taken from proceeds of prior Convention)
v
News Letter $ 130 monthly
v Policy
v
Archivist
1. Nominations for ASC Committee Officers should be solicited from the active GSRs.
2. An
explanation of the Office is read from the “Area Service
Guidelines” to establish each position’s responsibilities.
3. The position is announced and
nominations are taken.
4. Each nomination must be
seconded.
5. All
nominations are tabled to the Groups for a final vote.
6. After
accepting nominations from GSRs carrying a Group
Conscience the Chair will ask the Floor if there are any other nominations.
7. A motion is made to close
nominations and must be seconded.
8. At
the time of nominations, each nominee should state in person, or on paper,
their qualifications for serving the Fellowship through the position in
question. At a minimum the
following topics should be addressed:
v
Clean time of Nominee
v
Past Fellowship experience
v
Reasons Nominee has the desire to serve.
9. Nominations for ASC Officers and Subcommittee Chairs are open in May. Nominations from the Groups are brought to ASC in June, and other nominations from the Floor will be accepted at that time. The results of the Groups votes will be reported in July at which time the new Officers assume the position.
10. All nominations will be tabled to the groups for a regular vote.
11. Voting is done by Paper Ballot.
12.
All ASC Subcommittees will elect their own
Vice-Chairperson.
13. All
ASC Members may succeed themselves in office, but it
is recommended that no Officer serve more than two terms in the same office.
14. Nominees for ASC office must be present to be voted upon, but need not
be present to be nominated.
However, a written list of qualifications is required if the nominee is
not present at the time of nomination.
CHAIRPERSON: The qualifications for Chairperson are:
v
A willingness and desire to serve
v
Active for at least one year in the NA Service
Structure at the Area Level
v
Willingness and desire to give the time and
resources required by the position
v
Mandatory two years abstinence from all drugs
v
Leadership ability
v
Ability to communicate
v
Ability to organize
The responsibilities
of the Chairperson are:
v
Arranges and presides over the monthly ASC meeting
v
Is a co-signer on the ASC
bank account
v
Responsible for correspondence coming from the ASC
v
Votes at ASC only in
the case of a tie
v
Enforces rules of decorum and discipline during ASC
v
Clarifies Policy questions
v
Attempts to be absolutely fair and impartial
v
Must be able to work for the common good
v
Places principals above Personalities
VICE CHAIRPERSON: The qualifications for Vice Chair
are:
v
A willingness and desire to serve
v
Service Experience
v
Active for at least six months in the NA service
structure at the Area level
v
Willingness and desire to give the time and
resources required by the position
v
Mandatory one year abstinence from all drugs
v
Leadership ability
v
Ability to communicate
v
Ability to organize
The responsibilities
of the Vice Chairperson are:
v
Coordinates all Subcommittee functions
v
In the absence of the Chairperson the Vice
Chairperson shall perform all the duties of the Chairperson
v
Is a co-signer on the ASC
bank account
v
Liaison between all Subcommittees to assure
proper coordination of responsibilities
SECRETARY: The qualifications for Secretary are:
v
A willingness and desire to serve
v
Service Experience
v
Active for at least six months in the NA service
structure at the Area level
v
Willingness and desire to give the time and
resources required by the position
v
Mandatory one year abstinence from all drugs
v
Leadership ability
v
Ability to communicate
v
Ability to organize
The responsibilities
of the Secretary are:
v
Keeps an accurate record of each ASC Meeting
v
Distributes Minutes & Subcommittee Reports
to GSRs no later than 2 weeks after ASC
v
Is a co-signer on the Area bank account
v
Types and sends any letters that the
v
Keeps the records of the ASC
v
Maintains and arranges for printing of the Area
Meeting List
v
Compiles and maintains the Area files and
Archives
v
Does any other job that is assigned by the ASC during the year
ALTERNATE SECRETARY: The office of Alternate Secretary is a
two-year commitment. The first year
is spent becoming familiar with the job, attending all ASC
Meetings and assisting the Secretary whenever possible. If for any reason the Secretary is
unable to complete his or her term in office then the Alternate Secretary fills
in for the Secretary for the remainder of the term. Recommended qualifications for Alternate
Secretary are the same as for the Secretary, with the exception that only six
months abstinence is the suggested clean time.
TREASURER: The qualifications for Treasurer
are:
v
A willingness and desire to serve
v
Service Experience
v
Active for at least six months in the NA service
structure at the Area level
v
Willingness and desire to give the time and
resources required by the position
v
Mandatory two years abstinence from all drugs
v
Leadership ability
v
Ability to communicate
v
Ability to organize
The responsibilities of the Treasurer are:
v
Reports contributions and expenses at every ASC Meeting
v
In addition, also makes quarterly and annual
reports about the ASC’s finances
v
Responsible for bulk purchases of Literature and
the Area Literature stockpile
v
Attempts to make sure each Group contributes
their fair share to support ASC services
v
Maintains a Prudent Reserve adequate to serve
the Area
v
All monies are channeled through the Treasurer
v
Pays the bills, and Subcommittee Budget amounts
as needed, by check.
v
All checks are signed at the ASC
Meeting
v
Treasurer is a co-signer on the ASC bank account
ALTERNATE TREASURER: The office of Alternate Treasurer is a
two-year commitment. The first year
of service is spent becoming familiar with the duties of the Treasurer,
attending all ASC Meetings, and assisting the
Treasurer whenever possible. In the
absence of the Treasurer the Alternate will perform the duties of the
Treasurer. If for any reason the
Treasurer is unable to fulfill his or her commitment, then the Alternate
Treasure fills in for the remainder of the term. The qualifications are the same as for
Treasurer, with the exception that only one-year abstinence is the suggested
clean time.
REGIONAL COMMITTEE MEMBER: The qualifications for RCM are:
v
A willingness and desire to serve
v
Service Experience
v
Active for at least six months in the NA service
structure at the Area level
v
Willingness and desire to give the time and
resources required by the position
v
Mandatory two years abstinence from all drugs
v
Leadership ability
v
Ability to communicate
v
Ability to organize
The responsibilities
of the RCM are:
v
Represents Group Conscience of the ASC at the Regional Service Conference (
v
Provides, for the ASC’s
consideration, all pertinent
v
Attends all RSCs and
takes part in any discussions affecting the Region
v
Speaks at
v
Must be able to work for the common good
v
Endeavors to always place Principals above
Personalities
v
That the RCM, or
Alternate, will always have a "Vote of Confidence" at Regional to
Vote on issues that the Area did not vote on.
RCM ALTERNATE: The office of RCM
Alternate is a two-year commitment.
The first year of service is spent becoming familiar with the duties of
the RCM, attending all ASC
and
v
A willingness and desire to serve
v
Service Experience
v
Active for at least six months in the NA service
structure at the Subcommittee level
v
Willingness and desire to give the time and
resources required by the position
v
Mandatory one year abstinence from all drugs
v
Working knowledge of the 12 Traditions & the
NA Service Structure
v
Leadership ability
v
Ability to communicate
v
Ability to organize
It is suggested that each subcommittee submit written plans of their
activities for the approval of the ASC, as
needed. It is also suggested that
all subcommittees hold workshops to promote an awareness of how they function
within the Fellowship. Each
Subcommittee will submit a monthly Budget annually, one month after ASC elections.
Hospitals & Institutions
– The H&I Subcommittee at the Area
level is in charge of carrying the message of recovery to the addict that
cannot come to us or to an institution where for any reason there are
restrictions that differ from the 12 Traditions. The Ares H&I
Subcommittee keeps record of H&I meetings,
coordinates panels and establishes new meetings in as many Hospitals and
Institutions as possible. The H&I Subcommittee is
accountable for all disbursed literature, and for expenditure of their budgeted
funds, in a written report to be presented at each ASC.
Fellowship Development – Fellowship
Development Subcommittee at the Area level attempts to carry the NA message of
recovery to those who help or have contact with addicts. This Subcommittee attempts to open lines
of communication via radio shows, public service announcements (PSAs), posters, mail-outs, one-on-one interviews,
attendance at related conventions in the professional field, etc. The ways and means are innumerable. This Subcommittee is accountable for all
disbursed literature, and for expenditure of their budgeted funds, in a written
report to be presented at each ASC. This subcommittee
also operates the Helpline for the Area and establishes, maintains and
coordinates an effective 24-hour / 7 day a week answering service. The Helpline Subcommittee is responsible
to meet the needs of addicts in this capacity. They do so by following the 12
Traditions and the policy guidelines of the Treasure Coast ASC. The main purpose of the Helpline
Subcommittee is to provide a means by which the still suffering addict can
reach out to a member of Narcotics Anonymous. The Helpline Subcommittee is accountable
for expenditure of their budgeted funds, in a written report to be presented at
each ASC. This subcommittee also operates The Website and
is responsible for maintenance of the Treasure Coast Area Website. The Webmaster will ensure that regular
updates concerning events and meeting list changes occur and that bills for the
hosting and maintenance of the Website are received and paid by the
Treasurer. The Webmaster will be
accountable to the ASC in the form of a written
report.
Literature Subcommittee – The
Literature Subcommittee at the Area level is primarily responsible for the
purchase and distribution of NA literature to the Groups within the Treasure
Coast Area. A minimum of one-month
stockpile of literature adequate to supply the Groups will be kept on
hand. The subcommittee fills the
Groups literature orders at ASC and then replenishes
the stockpile via the Regional Service Office. New Group Starter kits are automatically
provided to a New Group and consist or $25 worth of literature chosen by the
new Group. The Literature
Subcommittee is accountable for the Inventory in a report given to the ASC.
Activities Subcommittee – The
Activities Subcommittee coordinates and plans activities that promote unity and
fellowship in the NA Program. Any
functions planned by this subcommittee are to be brought to the ASC for a vote.
The Activities Subcommittee is accountable to the ASC
for expenditure of their budgeted funds and for any receipts from events, in a
written report submitted to the ASC.
Newsletter Subcommittee – The
Newsletter Subcommittee is responsible to serve the needs of addicts seeking
recovery in the Treasure Coast Area of NA by informing the Fellowship of news
and upcoming events and by further promoting our unity through the written
word. This function may also be
provided under the responsibilities of the PI Subcommittee.
Policy Amendments
NEWSLETTER POLICY
DESCRIPTION
The Newsletter is a
service provided by the Treasure Coast Area of Narcotics Anonymous to provide
NA news. It carries the message of
recovery to the Treasure Coast Area both inside and outside the rooms of
Narcotics Anonymous, and most importantly to the still suffering addict. The members of the Treasure Coast Area
of Narcotics Anonymous Newsletter Committee, which is maintained, supervised,
and supported by the groups, handle the newsletter. The Treasure Coast Area of Narcotics
Anonymous Newsletter Committee abides by the 12 Traditions and 12 Concepts of
Narcotics Anonymous.
The goal of the
Treasure Coast Area of Narcotics Anonymous Newsletter Committee is to provide
NA relate news and personal experiences from recovering addicts offering
experience, strength, and hope from addiction. The further goal of the Treasure Coast
Area of Narcotics Anonymous Newsletter is to unify our area so that in keeping
with the First Tradition, personal recovery is more available. The sharing of personal experiences in
the newsletter also allows those unable to get to meetings the enhancement of
continued recovery. Our Fifth
Tradition will always be the guiding principle, “Our primary purpose is
to carry the message to the addict who still suffers”.
The Treasure Coast
Area of Narcotics Anonymous Newsletter Committee meets every 1st Sunday of the
month at a publicized location for their monthly meeting. Due to no Area Service Office locally,
all articles and information can be sent to
Our
SUBCOMMITTEE STRUCTURE
Chairperson: Chairperson presides and chairs meetings and
reports regularly to the Regional and Area Service Committee, servings as
liaison between
Vice-Chairperson: The Vice
Chairperson will perform the duties of the Chairperson in their absence. They
will assist the Chairperson and the Committee members with all the functions as
needed. This position is a one-year commitment.
Secretary: The Secretary will
record the minutes of the Newsletter Committee meetings and distribute to the
members. The Secretary will provide copies of the Newsletter to the World
Service Office (
Treasurer: The Treasure Coast
Area of Narcotics Anonymous funds the Treasure Coast Newsletter; therefore any
money needed or received will come from or be given to the Treasure Coast Area
of Narcotics Anonymous. If this need changes, a
treasurer will be voted on at a regularly scheduled committee meeting.
General Committee Members: Members of the NA fellowship with a
willingness and desire to commit time to work on the Newsletter and attend
monthly planning meetings will be encouraged to join the Newsletter team. A new member may vote at the second
consecutive meeting attended.
All members of the
Newsletter Committee will participate in monthly committee meetings, which will
also be open to any interested members of Narcotics Anonymous, however; only
members of the Newsletter team will be allowed to make motions and vote on
decisions involving the Newsletter.
To amend a policy, two-thirds majority of the Committee must be
present. The Committee may remove a
member from the Newsletter Committee for absenteeism exceeding three (3)
meetings consecutively, relapse with continued use, and knowingly violating the
Traditions or Concepts. All members
will have the responsibility to gather original NA material, help in decisions
in editing of articles, determining that the NA Traditions and NA Concepts are
adhered to, as well as helping in formatting, typing articles, and the
distribution of the Newsletter.
Suggested continuous
clean time for the Chairperson is one year; Vice Chairperson one year; and
Secretary is six months. All other
members have no minimum clean time requirement. All Committee Members must have read the
12 Steps and 12 Traditions in the N.A. Text and It
Works How and Why, and the N.A. Concepts, as well as
having a working knowledge of all three.
Each Committee Member will receive a copy of the 12 Concepts.
The budget shall be
submitted to the Treasure Coast Area of Narcotics Anonymous by the Newsletter
Chairperson with a report of expected expenditures, as decided in the
Newsletter meeting, in accordance with the Treasure Coast Area of Narcotics
Anonymous Newsletter policy.
1.
The Newsletter will be called “The Treasure Coast Recovery
Times”. Suggested topics of the Treasure Coast Recovery Times Newsletter
will be those outlined in the Newsletter Handbook (See Handbook for N.A. Newsletter).
At the request of the Newsletter Committee Members, everyone on the
Committee will receive a copy of the Newsletter Handbook
.
2.
Only NA articles and quotes will be utilized as not to break the Sixth
Tradition. We will print NA
materials.
3.
The 12 Traditions and Twelve Concepts of N.A.
will serve as our guideline for editing the Treasure Coast Recovery Times
Newsletter.
4.
The Treasure Coast Recovery Times Newsletter will be printed monthly
with the first issue being November 2006.
5.
In an effort to contain cost The Treasure Coast Recovery Times
Newsletter will be four (4) double-sided pages per issue.
6.
Because of the space constraints, The Treasure Coast Recovery Times
Newsletter Committee has decided that multiple articles from the same
contributor may be published in different issues of the Newsletter.
7.
The Treasure Coast Recovery Times Newsletter Committee has determined
that only last initial will be used in being consistent with the Twelfth
Tradition. The exception to this
policy is last names may be used for deceased addicts.
8.
Some articles might be edited for space constraints only if the contents
of the article are not affected.
All materials must be in alignment with the Twelve Traditions.
9.
The Secretary will send a copy of every Newsletter to
10. The Newsletter will be distributed as follows:
v
Approximately 75 copies will be handed out at ASC.
v
Each Newsletter Committee Member will be given
copies to hand out at NA
Meetings
they attend.
v
Remaining copies will be given to H&I Chairperson for distribution.
v A copy will be placed on the Treasure Coast Area Website.
Policy for the
Of Narcotics Anonymous
H & I Subcommittee
PURPOSE:
The purpose of this Policy is for the H & I Subcommittee to operate with integrity and structure within the H & I guidelines, the 12 traditions, and the 12 concepts for NA service. And also for the Treasure Coast Area H & I Subcommittee to best carry the NA message.
1.H & I Chair will be elected by the ASC.
2.The H & I Subcommittee will elect H & I Vice Chair, Secretary & Literature Chair, as well as all Panel Coordinators.
3.The H & I subcommittee will approve all Panel Leaders and oversee Panel Members.
4.Only H & I Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary, Literature Chair, Panel Coordinators, Panel Leaders, Panel Members and Regular Members will have a voice on the floor and vote at any H & I Subcommittee meeting. A Regular Member is any member that has attended two consecutive H & I subcommittee meetings - a voice on the floor and vote will be granted at the beginning of their third consecutive H & I subcommittee meeting.
5.Only H & I Vice chair, Secretary, Literature chair, panel coordinators, panel leaders and panel members and Regular Members can make and second motions.
6.Non-members may speak only during the open forum and at the discretion of the H & I Chairperson.
7.Quorum consists of one more than half of the regular voting Members, and is required to hold an H & I Subcommittee Meeting. Quorum is also required on all motions. A Regular Member that misses two consecutive H & I Subcommittee meetings will be removed from the Quorum count and be denied a voice on the floor and vote until two consecutive H & I Subcommittee meetings have been attended.
8.All motions should be submitted in writing whenever possible. Motions dealing with an issue already on the Floor will be recognized by the Chair and require a verbal second. Following is the procedural sequence pertaining to motions:
vThe maker of
the motion speaks to its intent
vUpon hearing
the intent the floor will open for discussion consisting of 2 pro’s and 2
con’s only
vA simple
majority is required to pass a motion, except motions that change H & I
Guidelines requires a 2/3 majority and will then be sent to the ASC for a vote of approval. Abstentions are counted with the
majority of voting members.
vA Motion to
Amend may be necessary and may be made only by the maker of the original motion
vA Motion to
Table may be entertained after hearing the pros and cons.
vTabled
motions will automatically be entered into old business at the next H & I
Subcommittee meeting.
Removal of Officers
Only the ASC can remove the H & I chair from office
Removal of other Officers will be dealt
with as follows:
vVoluntary: A
Letter of resignation to be given to the H & I Chair prior to next
scheduled H & I subcommittee meeting
vInvoluntary:
oTwo consecutive meetings missed
without reasonable explanation (“reasonable” to be determined by
the H & I Subcommittee) or prior notice given to any Administrative
Committee Member.
oRelapse during term.
vImpeachment
(needed in case of Concept violation or failure to perform duties or
responsibilities):
oNotice of intent to pursue an
Impeachment must be provided seven days prior to next H & I meeting by H & I Chairperson.
oMotion must be presented at
the H & I Subcommittee meeting, along with due cause (intent).
oRespondent (person being
Impeached) is given time to respond.
oAn Open ballot is taken and
2/3 majority is required for successful Impeachment.
oThe H & I Chair will
report details of this action at the next ASC
meeting.
11. All Members of the H & I Subcommittee are responsible for acquainting themselves with the Area H & I Policy, H & I Guidelines of the H & I Subcommittee, and the Parliamentary Procedure followed by the ASC and the H & I Subcommittee.
12. Subcommittee reports should be neatly written or typed so the H & I Secretary can have accurate notes and should consist of the following:
vDay, Time and
Place of Meeting
vNumber
attending
vCommittee
Activities, Accomplishments, and Specific Problems or Situations
vPlans for the
upcoming month
vMotions for
Group Conscience
13. Budgets for the H & I Subcommittee will be submitted to the ASC annually.
Election of Officers
1. Nominations for H & I Subcommittee Officers other than Chair will be solicited from the active subcommittee members.
2. An explanation of the Office is read from the “H & I Guidelines and H & I Policy” to establish each position’s responsibilities.
3. The position is announced and nominations are taken.
4. Each nomination must be seconded.
5. After accepting nominations the Chair will ask the Floor if there are any other nominations
6. A motion is made to close nominations and must be seconded.
7. At the time of nominations, each nominee should state in person, or on paper, by the end of the meeting prayer, their qualifications for serving the Fellowship through the position in question. At a minimum the following topics should be addressed:
vClean time of
Nominee
vPast
Fellowship experience
vReasons
Nominee has the desire to serve.
8. Nominations for H & I Officers are open in May and voted on in June.
9. Voting is done by Paper Ballot.
10. All H & I Officers may succeed themselves in office, but it is recommended that no Officer serve more than two terms in the same office.
11. Nominees for H & I office must be present to be voted upon, but need not be present to be nominated. However, a written list of qualifications is required if the nominee is not present at the time of nomination and must be turned into the secretary by the end of the meeting prayer.
Qualifications &
Responsibilities of H & I Officers
CHAIRPERSON: H & I Chair will be elected by the ASC.
The responsibilities of the Chairperson
are:
vArranges and
presides over the monthly H & I meeting.
vResponsible for
correspondence coming to and from the ASC
vVotes at the
H & I subcommittee meeting only in the case of a tie
vEnforces
rules of decorum and discipline during an H & I Meeting
vClarifies H
& I questions
vAttempts to
be absolutely fair and impartial
vMust be able
to work for the common good
vPlaces
principals above Personalities
VICE CHAIRPERSON: The qualifications for Vice Chair are:
vA willingness
and desire to serve
vService
Experience
vActive for at
least six months in the NA service structure at the Area level
vWillingness
and desire to give the time and resources required by the position
v1 year clean
time
vLeadership
ability
vAbility to
communicate
vAbility to
organize
The responsibilities of the Vice
Chairperson are:
vIn the
absence of the Chairperson the Vice Chairperson shall perform all the duties of
the Chairperson
vDoes budget
for the H & I and gives reports to chair for the ASC
vOrganizes and
performs orientation for all H & I panel coordinators, panel leaders, panel
speakers, and any other Na members interested in going through orientation.
SECRETARY: The qualifications for Secretary are:
vA willingness
and desire to serve
vService
Experience
vWillingness
and desire to give the time and resources required by the position
v1 year clean time
vLeadership
ability
vAbility to
communicate
vAbility to
organize
The responsibilities of the Secretary are:
vKeeps an
accurate record of each H & I Meeting
vDistributes
Minutes at the next subcommittee meeting.
vKeep the
records of the H & I Subcommittee.
vCompiles and
maintains the H & I files and Archives
vDoes any
other job that is assigned by the H & I Subcommittee during the year
vCollects
information from panel coordinators
H & I LITERATURE CHAIR: The qualifications for H & I
literature chair are:
vA willingness
and desire to serve
vService
Experience
vWillingness
and desire to give the time and resources required by the position
v1 year clean
time
vLeadership
ability
vAbility to
communicate and organize
The responsibilities of the H & I literature chair are:
v
Gathering information from panel coordinators to
stay on top of materials at each facility
v
Providing all panel coordinators with literature
needed and approved.
v
Helping H & I vice chair with budget for literature.
v
Making sure all literature is world conference
approved and stamped.
v
Inventorying all literature and providing H
& I secretary with a current list on hand and what is needed.
PANEL COORDINATOR: The Qualifications for a panel coordinator are:
v
A working knowledge of H & I guidelines
v
A willingness and desire to serve
v
1 year clean time
v
Knowledge of the do’s and don’ts of
H & I Guidelines
v
Knowledge of the facilities rules
v
To be able to carry a clear concise narcotics
anonymous message
v
Have a working knowledge of the 12 Traditions
& 12 Concepts of NA Service
v
The ability to place principles above
personalities
v
Been through the treasure coast area H & I
orientation
The responsibilities of the Panel
coordinators are:
v
To be a liaison between the facility and the H
& I subcommittee
v
Have a written set of rules from the facility
and operate within those rules
v
Have an H & I guidelines book and treasure
coast H & I policy
v
Make sure the facility has Na literature,
stamped & approved by world conference
v
Let the H & I literature chair know the
literature inventory of the facility
v
Carry only the Narcotics anonymous message
v
Bring in only speakers who carry a clear and
concise NA message
v
Make sure all panel leaders and members have
been through H & I orientation
v
Make sure panel leaders have speakers in the
event they cannot find one
v
Assist other panel coordinators with finding
speakers for all of the treasure coast
area facilities
v
Keep accurate records of who the panel leaders
and panel members are and
provide those records to the H & I secretary
PANEL LEADERS: The Qualifications for a
panel leader are:
v
A working knowledge of H & I guidelines
v
A willingness and desire to serve
v
1 year clean time
v
Knowledge of the do’s and don’ts of
H & I
v
Knowledge of the facilities rules
v
To be able to carry a clear and concise NA
message
v
To be able to place principles above
personalities
v
Have a working knowledge of the 12 traditions
and 12 concepts for Na service
v
Have been through H & I orientation
The responsibilities of the Panel leaders
are:
v
Carry only the Narcotics anonymous message
v
Bring in only speakers who carry a clear and
concise narcotics NA message
v
Bring in speakers who have been through H &
I orientation
v
Bring in speakers from an approve H & I
subcommittee list
v
To call panel coordinator if unable to find a
speaker never go alone
v
Start and end meeting on time
v
Go over do’s and don’ts with each
speaker prior to each meeting
PANEL MEMBERS: The Qualifications for a
panel member are:
v
6 months clean time
v
To be able to carry a clear and concise Na
message
v
To have read the do’s and don’ts and
understand them
v
To have gone through an H & I orientation
The responsibilities for a panel member
are:
v
Carry a clear and concise Na message
v
To follow the do’s and don’ts of the
H & I guidelines
v
To follow the rules of the facility
Guidelines for the
Narcotics Anonymous
Policy Subcommittee
Purpose:
The purpose of the Policy Subcommittee is to review policy changing motions and decisions made by the Treasure Coast ASC. This subcommittee will also update the policy when policy changing motions are passed by the Treasure Coast ASC and make motions suggesting changes to the ASC policy one line item at a time.
v
The maker of the motion speaks to its intent.
v Upon hearing the intent the Floor will be open for discussion consisting of two pros and two cons only.
v A simple majority is required to pass a motion, except motions that change policy Guidelines require a 2/3 majority and will then be sent to the ASC for a vote of approval. Abstentions are counted with the majority of voting members.
v A Motion to Amend may be necessary and may be made only by the maker of the original motion
v A Motion to Table may be entertained after hearing the pros and cons.
v Tabled motions will automatically be entered into old business at the next Policy Subcommittee meeting.
9. Removal of other Officers shall be dealt with as follows:
v Voluntary: A letter of resignation to be given to the Policy Chair prior to next Policy meeting
v
Involuntary:
o
Two consecutive meetings missed without
reasonable explanation (reasonability to be determined by the Policy
Subcommittee) or prior notice given to any Administrative Committee Member.
o
Relapse during term.
v Impeachment (needed in case of Concept violation or failure to perform duties or responsibilities):
o
Notice of intent to pursue an Impeachment must
be provided 7 days prior to next Policy meeting by Policy Chairperson.
o
Motion must be presented at the Policy
Subcommittee meeting, along with due cause (intent).
o
Respondent (person being Impeached) is given
time to respond.
o An Open ballot is taken and 2/3 majority is required for successful Impeachment.
o Details of this action will be reported at the next ASC meeting by the Policy Chair.
10. All Members of the Policy Subcommittee are responsible for acquainting themselves with the Area Service Policy & Guidelines of the Policy Subcommittee, and the Parliamentary Procedure followed by the ASC and the policy Subcommittee.
11. Subcommittee reports should be neatly written or typed so the ASC Secretary can have accurate notes and should consist of the following:
v
Day, Time and Place of Meeting
v
Number attending
v
Committee Activities, Accomplishments, and
Specific Problems or Situations
v
Plans for the upcoming month
v
Motions for Group Conscience
12. Budgets for the Policy Subcommittee will be submitted to the ASC annually.
1. Nominations for Policy Subcommittee Officers other than Chair will be solicited from the active subcommittee members.
2. An explanation of the Office is read from the “Policy Subcommittee Guidelines” to establish each position’s responsibilities.
3. The position is
announced and nominations are taken.
4. Each nomination must be seconded.
5. After accepting nominations the Chair will ask the Floor if there are any other nominations
7. A motion is made to close nominations and must be seconded.
8. At the time of nominations, each nominee should state in person, or on paper, their qualifications for serving the Fellowship through the position in question. At a minimum the following topics should be addressed:
v
Clean time of Nominee
v
Past Fellowship experience
v
Reasons Nominee has the desire to serve.
9. Nominations
for Policy Officers are open in May and voted on in June.
10. Voting is done by Paper
Ballot.
11. All Policy Officers may succeed themselves in office, but it is recommended that no Officer serve more than two terms in the same office.
12. Nominees for Policy office must be present to be voted upon, but need not be present to be nominated. However, a written list of qualifications is required if the nominee is not present at the time of nomination.
CHAIRPERSON: Policy Chair will be elected by the ASC.
The responsibilities
of the Chairperson are:
v
Arranges and presides over the monthly Policy
meeting.
v
Responsible for correspondence coming from the ASC
v
Votes at the Policy subcommittee meeting only in
the case of a tie
v
Enforces rules of decorum and discipline during
a Policy Meeting
v
Clarifies Policy questions
v
Attempts to be absolutely fair and impartial
v
Must be able to work for the common good
v
Places principals above Personalities
VICE CHAIRPERSON: The qualifications for Vice Chair
are:
v
A willingness and desire to serve
v
Service Experience
v
Active for at least six months in the NA service
structure at the Area level
v
Willingness and desire to give the time and
resources required by the position
v
Suggested one year abstinence from all drugs
v
Leadership ability
v
Ability to communicate
v Ability to organize
v
The responsibilities
of the Vice Chairperson are:
v In the absence of the Chairperson the Vice Chairperson shall perform all the duties of the Chairperson
SECRETARY: The qualifications for Secretary are:
v
A willingness and desire to serve
v
Service Experience
v
Willingness and desire to give the time and
resources required by the position
v
Suggested one year abstinence from all drugs
v
Leadership ability
v
Ability to communicate
v Ability to organize
The responsibilities
of the Secretary are:
v
Keeps an accurate record of each Policy Meeting
v
Distributes Minutes at the next subcommittee
meeting.
v
Keeps the records of the Policy Subcommittee.
v
Compiles and maintains the Policy files and
Archives
v
Does any other job that is assigned by the
Policy Subcommittee during the year
TREASURE COAST
FELLOWSHIP DEVELOPMENT
SUBCOMMITTEE GUIDELINES
“To plan and provide services and support which facilitate the
continuation and growth of
Opening
Prayer
Reading
of 12 Traditions and 12 Concepts
Welcome
any new members
Panel
Coordinator Reports
Old
Business
New
Business
Close
Prayer and Hugs
CHAIRPERSON
PANEL
COORDINATORS
GENERAL
MEMBERS
PR
PRESENTATION MEMBERS
VOTING MEMBERS
All
committee members should have a thorough understanding of the principal of
attraction rather than promotion and personal anonymity as it relates to PR
work...
A.
Chairperson
i.
Min. 2 years continuous clean time.
ii.
Understanding of the structure of Narcotics Anonymous
iii.
Time , abilities and resources needed to meet the
responsibilities
iv.
Experience at Area Level
v.
Working knowledge of 12 Traditions and 12 Concepts
B.
Panel Coordinator
i.
Min 1 year clean time for Helpline and Web- 2 yrs for
PR Coordinator
ii.
Experience with PR/ Helpline Committee/Web
iii.
Working knowledge of 12 Traditions and 12 Concepts
C.
General Member
i.
Min of 6 months clean time
ii.
Willingness to serve
iii.
Some knowledge of the specific fields; internet / media
/ helpline
iv.
Desire to develop a working knowledge of the 12 steps,
12 traditions and the 12 concepts of Narcotics Anonymous
D.
Voting Members
i.
Desire to stop using
ii.
Desire to develop a working knowledge of the 12 steps,
the 12 Traditions and the 12 concepts of Narcotics Anonymous.
iii.
Attendance at 3 consecutive subcommittee meetings
E.
PR Presentation Members
i.
Min 2 yrs clean time in Narcotics Anonymous
ii.
Working knowledge of the Steps and Traditions of NA,
with special emphasis on :
a)
Having no opinion (positive or negative) on any outside
issues or organizations, including other 12- Step fellowships.
b)
Attraction rather than promotion
c)
Personal anonymity, including the ability to set asides
one’s own opinions and effectively communicate the NA message as
published in our literature.
2)
Shall dress appropriately. Please check with
Administrative Committee for further dress code info.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Chairperson
i.
Shall be ultimately responsible for the functioning of
the sub committee.
ii.
Shall maintain all files and records.
iii.
Supplies guidance, direction, encouragement and support
to all members.
iv.
Represents the committee at ASC.
v.
Attends as many Regional’s
as possible…
Panel
Coordinator
i.
Shall perform duties of Chair in his or her absence.
ii.
Attends all Sub Committee meetings.
iii.
When possible, shall attend PR presentations.
iv.
Gathers people required to do project work.
v.
Coordinates all days and time for Helpline
vi.
Updates and maintains Webpage with current meeting
times and days.
Voting
and General Members
i.
Participate in discussions, contributing to the process
of consensus and or
group conscience.
ii.
Provide assistance with projects as necessary.
A.
Consensus – Based Decisions—It is suggested
that all subcommittee members:
i.
Should strive to remember that our personal recovery
depends on unity.
ii.
Should strive to utilize their personal recovery in all
discussions, remembering that part of effective communication is listening with
an open mind to all view points.
iii.
Strive to establish unity, common respect and trust for
one another
iv.
Whenever possible the Chair shall seek a plan of action
which all sub committee members can “live with”. This plan may not
turn out to be anyone’s ideal plan, but if all members can live with the
plan we can move forward in unity.
v.
If after extensive discussion, prayer and meditation,
common ground cannot be found, the committee will resort to the motion and
voting guidelines below. However, all members should remember that by resorting
to these guidelines, we risk the loss of unity.
B.
Motions
i.
Motion can be made by any committee member including a
General member.
C.
Voting
i.
All members with exception of Chair may vote on
motions.
ii.
In the event of a tie, Chair may cast a tie breaking
vote.
Guidelines to Answering Helpline Calls:
You are performing a
valuable service when you answer the phone for Narcotics Anonymous. Your job
requires compassion and RELIABLILITY You can express
your compassion when addicts, or their loved ones,
call NA and ask for help.
It will require
patience to effectively listen to the needs of the caller and to provide the
appropriate referral. Your commitment is vitally important to the still
suffering addicts.
1. Answer calls
stating that you are an addict
2. Give information
about NA, answer basic questions providing Narcotics Anonymous meeting location
and times, etc.
3. Refer family and
friends of addicts to open NA meeting.
4. Do NOT give out
other people's names or phone numbers.
5. Contact chair, or
panel coordinator, if any problem arises.
6. When volunteer
returns a call, do make sure you have the person requesting help on the line
before indicting yourself or mentioning Narcotics Anonymous.
7. Remember, do keep
it simple. The main objective is to
get the addict to a meeting.
Budget
-Subcommittee should
submit a list of Goals and a Budget each year in August - $200.00 monthly
CONTINGENCY
It is essential that
all public relations efforts of Narcotics Anonymous be well prepared and
carried out. The clarity and
quality of our public image has a direct effect whether or not addicts who need
us will be able to find us.
1)
Any NA member receiving a request for information from
an outside contact should immediately call one of the following:
i)
ii)
iii)
2)
One of these individuals will respond to the request
within 24 hrs.
3)
When request is made, TC Area
Fellowship Development Subcommittee will handle the request.
4)
If determined, Florida Region or World PR Committees
may handle the request.
5)
Basic Rules- Never do outside speaking engagements on
your own- Never do Media Interviews on your own…
REMEMBER THAT NO INDIVIDUAL MEMBER CAN
REPRESENT NA!!!!!