Service in CEA-HOW
Service is one of the Seven Tools of recovery — and one of the most powerful
Why Service Matters
Practical experience shows that nothing will so much insure immunity from drinking as intensive work with other alcoholics.— Alcoholics Anonymous (Big Book), p. 89 — applied in CEA-HOW to compulsive eating
In CEA-HOW, service is not optional — it is one of the Seven Tools of recovery. Members who serve regularly report that giving back to the fellowship strengthens their own recovery, keeps them engaged in the program, and provides a sense of purpose and connection.
Service can be as simple as arriving early to set up a meeting, volunteering to read at a meeting, or being available to sponsor a newcomer. Over time, members may take on formal service positions within their group, their intergroup, or at the level of the World Service Organization.
The Twelfth Step of the program calls on members to carry the message of recovery to others — this is, at its core, what service is about.
Service Positions
Each CEA-HOW group and intergroup is served by trusted servants elected by the group conscience. These are volunteer positions that rotate regularly to share responsibility and opportunity across the membership.
Secretary
Leads each group meeting. Reads or assigns readings, introduces speakers, manages meeting time, and ensures the meeting follows the approved format.
Typically 3–6 monthsTreasurer
Collects and manages group contributions, pays group expenses (room rent, literature), and sends contributions to the intergroup and WSO. Provides monthly financial reports.
Typically 6–12 monthsIntergroup Representative
Represents the group at the local intergroup. Carries group conscience decisions to intergroup meetings and brings intergroup information back to the group.
Typically 1 yearGeneral Service Representative (GSR)
Represents the group at the WSO General Service level. Participates in WSO-level decisions that affect the entire fellowship.
Typically 1–2 yearsCommittee Chairs
At the intergroup and WSO levels, committees manage specific service areas: events, literature, convention, outreach, and more. Chairs are elected or appointed.
Varies by committeeBoard of Trustees Member
WSO-level service. Trustees are responsible for the governance of the World Service Organization and serve as custodians of the CEA-HOW legacy and traditions.
Term-limited by bylawsCEA-HOW Service Structure
CEA-HOW's service structure flows upward from the individual group to the World Service Organization, following principles of group autonomy and democratic self-governance.
World Service Organization (WSO)
Sets policy, publishes literature, coordinates the fellowship worldwide
Board of Trustees
Governs the WSO; elected by GSRs
Intergroup
Coordinates local groups; serves area members
Intergroup
Coordinates local groups; serves area members
Intergroup
Coordinates local groups; serves area members
Individual Groups
The foundation of CEA-HOW — weekly meetings, group conscience, trusted servants
Groups are autonomous, managing their own meetings and group conscience, while remaining connected to the larger fellowship through intergroups and the WSO. Each level is guided by the Twelve Traditions of CEA-HOW.
Starting a New Meeting
New CEA-HOW meetings are started by members of the fellowship who wish to carry the message to new communities. The WSO provides support and guidance to help ensure new meetings get off to a strong start.
Contact the WSO
Reach out to the World Service Organization to notify them of the new meeting and receive a new group packet.
Secure a meeting location
Find a location — a community center, church hall, Zoom room, or conference call. Ensure the space is accessible and private.
Choose a format
Select an approved meeting format. Most new meetings begin with the pitch format and may evolve over time.
Register with WSO
Register the meeting so it can be listed in the CEA-HOW meeting directory and found by newcomers.
Connect with your intergroup
If a local intergroup exists, connect with them for support, resources, and event information.
Keep it simple
Run the meeting according to the approved format. Use the meeting materials provided by WSO and avoid introducing outside literature or practices.
Intergroup Information
Intergroups are voluntary associations of CEA-HOW groups in a geographic area or within a shared format (e.g., an online intergroup). They coordinate service, plan events, and support individual groups.
What intergroups do
- Coordinate local meeting schedules and information
- Organize local events: speaker events, retreats, workshops
- Support groups with literature, meeting materials, and guidance
- Pass group conscience resolutions to the WSO level
- Help newcomers and groups connect with experienced CEA-HOW members
Joining or forming an intergroup
If an intergroup exists in your area, your group can join by sending a representative to intergroup meetings. If no intergroup exists, you may work with the WSO to form one. Contact the WSO for guidance on starting an intergroup and for information on the intergroup structure and bylaws.
Trusted Servant Resources
The following guides and templates are available for trusted servants in CEA-HOW groups and intergroups.
Secretary Guide & Opening/Closing Scripts
Complete scripts and guidance for meeting secretaries
Treasurer Guide & Record-Keeping Template
7th Tradition guidance, expense tracking, WSO contribution instructions
New Group Packet (PDF)
Complete materials for starting a new CEA-HOW meeting
Service Handbook (PDF)
Full guide for all service positions: secretary, treasurer, intergroup rep, GSR
Questions about service?
The World Service Organization is here to support trusted servants at every level. Contact the WSO for guidance on service positions, starting a meeting, or intergroup questions.