This chart shows how OA service levels provide support for the levels above them.
Groups
Individuals form OA groups.
Groups host OA meetings to provide support for individual OA members. Together we get better, and we don’t have to do it alone.
Intergroups
Intergroups are usually formed of groups with a common bond.
An intergroup may affiliate with one national service board if it exists, shall be affiliated with one region, and may participate in one or more language service boards.
National service boards
National service boards provide support for groups and/or intergroups within one country that are not otherwise served within the existing service structure.
A national service board is affiliated with the region where its nation exists and may participate in one or more language service boards.
Language service boards
Language service boards serve groups, intergroups and/or national service boards, usually in different countries, that share a common language.
Language service boards may or may not affiliate with a region.
Specific-focus service boards
A specific focus in OA is a recognition that some individuals may identify more easily with OA members who share attributes similar to their own, regardless of geographic proximity.
When enough groups and intergroups identify as having the same specific focus, then a specific-focus service board may be formed to serve them.
Specific-focus service boards may or may not affiliate with a region.
Regions
Regions provide support for service boards, intergroups, and unaffiliated groups.
World Service Business Conference
The World Service Business Conference (WSBC) is comprised of delegates from intergroups, service boards, regions, and all members of the Board of Trustees. WSBC delegates make decisions for the common welfare of OA as a whole.
Board of Trustees
The Board of Trustees consists of seventeen trustees. The board carries out the decisions of World Service Business Conferece.
Definitions
For OA’s official definitions of groups, intergroups, service boards, and regions, see OA Bylaws, Subpart B.
To browse the different service bodies currently registered with the World Service Office, see Find a Service Body.
Helpful Documents
- Overall Service Structure
- Suggestions for Starting an Intergroup/Service Board
- Bylaws and Policies and Procedures for Service Bodies: An Overview
- Budget Guidelines for Service Bodies
- Fundraising and Prudent Reserve Guidelines
- Affliation and Participation Flowchart
- OA Regions Map
Related Links
For more information, see the OA Handbook for Members, Groups, and Service Bodies: Recovery Opportunities.
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Related Links
If you are interested in starting an intergroup or service board, read Suggestions for Starting an Intergroup/Service Board for more information or the OA Handbook for Members, Groups, and Service Bodies: Recovery Opportunities.