PIC Annual Report 2026
Presented by Mary M, OIAA Trustee at Large
OIAA Assembly- 20 June 2026
Public Information Committees Mission, Role and Responsibilities
The Public Information Committee’s primary purpose is to carry the AA message to the alcoholic who still suffers. The Committee promotes the unity of online AA groups in accordance with Tradition One; carries the message of AA in accordance with Tradition Five; and responds to the needs of the online AA groups in accordance with Tradition Nine.
Our Role and Duties
The Public Information Committee Chair reviews incoming requests: it ensures that all requests
are answered in a timely manner. At present, we have only 2 members and very much want more members. We offer one-on-one training with time for new members to practice their reply skills before going “live.”
Suggested qualifications for Public Information Committee volunteers are one year or more of sobriety.
A solid grounding in the AA traditions; and good written communication skills are advantageous for those serving on the Public Information Committee. Bilingual or multilingual skills also are a plus but are not required. The Committee does receive requests in languages other than English, and we use translation software to answer when needed.
Our Tasks
The Public Information Committee answers about 50 to 100 requests per month. Those come from the OIAA website or are referred to by other OIAA committees or members.
The Committee provides a central source of information about OIAA and answers a variety of questions about our website; the OIAA organization; listed online meetings; the directory; requests for information; and complaints. Our number one request is how to obtain proof of attendance for people who have gotten into trouble because of their drinking either with the law or because of organ failure.
Familiarity with the OIAA website www.aa-intergroup.org is also a plus in that a lot of information that is requested may be found on that website.
Our contact with each other PIC Volunteers, other Committees, and the people requesting assistance is through email, so being familiar with how to navigate emails and Google docs, is also helpful. If you need assistance with anything to become a volunteer, just let us know and help will be available.
Why Serve on the Public Information Committee?
Service on the Public Information Committee provides a meaningful opportunity to carry the message of Alcoholics Anonymous to those seeking help and information about recovery. Every inquiry answered may help an alcoholic, a family member, a professional, or a member of the public find the resources they need to connect with AA.
PIC volunteers play an important role in supporting the Online Intergroup of Alcoholics Anonymous by providing accurate information, responding to requests with compassion and professionalism, and helping ensure that those seeking assistance receive a timely response.
Serving on the Committee also offers opportunities to:
- Practice the principles of AA through service.
- Strengthen understanding of the AA Traditions.
- Develop communication and service skills.
- Work collaboratively with trusted servants from around the world.
- Help carry the AA message beyond geographic boundaries through online service.
Whether you are experienced in service work or participating in a committee for the first time, training and support are available. New volunteers are welcomed and encouraged to learn at their own pace.
Interested in Serving?
The Public Information Committee welcomes AA members who have a desire to be of service and help carry the AA message online. Serving on the Committee is an opportunity to support alcoholics seeking help, provide information to the public, and contribute to the unity and effectiveness of online AA services.
Training, guidance, and ongoing support are available for all volunteers. Whether you have previous service experience or are exploring committee work for the first time, we encourage you to consider joining us.
If you have at least one year of sobriety and would like to learn more about serving on the Public Information Committee, please contact the Committee Chair or Co-Chair, or attend a Committee meeting. We would be happy to answer your questions and help you get started.
Together, we can continue to carry the message of Alcoholics Anonymous to the alcoholic who still suffers.
