IGR Info

Welcome and congratulations on becoming your group’s representative to the Willamette Valley Intergroup. Serving as an Intergroup Representative (IGR) offers you a rewarding opportunity to share in Alcoholics Anonymous’ Third Legacy of Service. It is a practical, rewarding way to carry the A.A. message and strengthen unity across the Willamette Valley. This page blends a quick orientation with answers to common questions so you can get started fast and stay effective.

The Intergroup Representative (IGR) serves as the vital link between their home group and the Willamette Valley Intergroup (WVI). As a trusted servant, the IGR—or their alternate—carries the group’s voice to the WVI Business Meeting, participates in discussions, and casts the group’s vote on matters affecting Intergroup. They also bring information back to the home group about local services, events, and opportunities for involvement. In essence, the IGR keeps communication flowing in both directions, ensuring the group stays informed about how WVI continues to carry the message and how members can participate in service and community activities.

At the WVI Business Meeting

• IGRs are encouraged to recommend agenda items for upcoming meetings.
• Introduce yourself and your group; you can always pass if you prefer not to share in a given month.
• Provide a brief written summary of your group’s status to aid accurate minutes.
• Bring your group’s questions or concerns for shared experience and solutions.
• Participate in group conscience decisions with your group’s vote.

At your Home Group

• Share WVI updates, like 12-Step call activity, how contributions are used, upcoming events.
• Share the WVI Intergroup Business Meeting Minutes to help keep your Home Group informed about WVI Business.
• Highlight open service positions and practical ways to get involved.
• Decide when/how to report per your group’s autonomy (Tradition Four).

Tip: Having an Alternate IGR provides coverage and helps onboard future trusted servants.

If you can’t attend, coordinate for your Alternate IGR (or someone from your group) to attend and send in a written report. Regular practice is to meet even on holidays.

Can I attend a Business Meeting before becoming an IGR?

Yes. Any A.A. member is welcome to attend; you don’t need to hold a position to observe.

Do I need a computer?

Meetings are virtual, so you’ll need a device to log in. If that’s a barrier, contact the Outreach Committee for options.

Will my contact information be shared?

WVI keeps IGR contact details for communication (minutes, reports). Information is confidential and used only for WVI purposes.

What helps me be effective as an IGR?

Familiarity with A.A. Guidelines, the A.A. Traditions, the 12 Concepts, and A.A. literature. A service sponsor can guide you through the role and resources.

Can I represent two groups?

One person has one vote; representing two groups would leave one unrepresented.

Why do discussions take time?

We make informed decisions through broad participation and group conscience. That means space for differing views and time to carry topics back to groups. Tradition One teaches that we can disagree without being disagreeable, to respect the opinions of others, to strive for substantial unanimity, and to take notice of the rights of the minority.

Why financial reports?

Transparency. WVI’s expenses (e.g., office, equipment) are supported entirely by group contributions; the Treasurer’s Report shows how funds are used.

Is Intergroup part of “General Service”?

Intergroups provide local services and Twelfth Step opportunities. “General Service” refers to the broader A.A. service structure. They’re complementary, not competitive. Being part of either one is a great service to Alcoholics Anonymous. For more information from and about the General Service office, visit A.A. Guidelines on Central or Intergroup Offices for GSO Information on Central/Intergroup Offices and A.A. General Service Office for the main GSO website.

What is the difference between the GSR and the IGR?

The GSR links your group to District/Area; the IGR links your group to Intergroup. Both roles are essential.

• Willamette Valley Intergroup website
• A.A. Guidelines on Central or Intergroup Offices
• Templates
• IGR Sample Report, to share at the home group
• Monthly Report, verbal & written versions for the WVI meeting and secretary minutes
• Past WVI Monthly Meeting Minutes: View minutes
• IGR Position Description (per current by-laws): View description
• WVI Business Meeting Motion Form

If you’re newly elected, reach out to the WVI Chair, Secretary, or Outreach Coordinator.

• Chair: aawvichairperson@gmail.com
• Secretary: wvisecretary@gmail.com
• WVI Office: see website for phone & office details

Have other questions? Bring them to the Business Meeting or email the appropriate contact above.