Are you in recovery from drugs or alcohol? Have you thought about becoming a sponsor?
What does a sponsor do?
Being an AA or NA sponsor is like being:
• a teacher
• a friend
• a mentor
• an "old timer" in recovery who is a good role model for others
What are the requirements to become a sponsor?
• You must have already finished the program and be sober and in recovery for at least one year.
• Know the 12 steps and 12 traditions of AA.
• Be able and willing to be available to meet or email with your sponsee on a regular basis (once a week minimum) to help him/her achieve their goal of sobriety.
• It is important that you set a good example of how the program works and how to apply the principles of the program to your own life.
FAQs
Q: I want to sponsor a deaf person, but I don't know sign language.
A: No problem. Many deaf people in recovery would be happy to have a hearing sponsor if you are open to learning how to use video phone, email, text, etc to help with communication barriers.
Q: I want to be a sponsor for my girlfriend/boyfriend. Is that okay?
A: No. It is better for you and your girlfriend/boyfriend if they have a sponsor who is a neutral person, not family, friend, or intimate partner.
Q: If I become a sponsor, will I be paid?
A: No. The 12 traditions of AA say that part of the recovery process is to give back to your community.
Q: If I am a man, can I sponsor a woman?
A: No. Male sponsors should have male sponsees and female sponsors should have female sponsees. This helps the focus of the relationship to be on sobriety, rather than dating. LGBT sponsees and sponsors must also be aware of any inappropriate feelings of attraction to the same gender and make sponsorship changes accordingly.
Q: Do I need formal training to become a sponsor?
A: No. You are not required to have formal training. You must have completed your own 12-step program, be familiar with the 12 steps and 12 traditions of AA/NA and remain sober. There are sponsor workshops occasionally offered which you may find helpful in providing you with valuable information and peer support.
Q: How many people can I sponsor?
A: There is no rule about the number of people you can sponsor. However, it is strongly advised that you start with one person. If you feel you have the time and energy to add more people without adding stress to your own life, you may try sponsoring more than one person. However, most sponsors recommend no more than three sponsees at the same time.
Q: How do I find someone to sponsor?
A: Attend AA/NA meetings. This is the best place to find someone who is looking for a sponsor and a great opportunity to see if the two of you will work well together.