Why Do I Have to Pay?

Most associations like to hold conferences/conventions. But in AA, a conference/convention is an important opportunity to share the AA experience in a broad way. There are many AA conferences held around the world. One of the most common misconceptions of these gatherings is that they are AA meetings, and since "There are no dues or fees for AA membership..." there should be no fees to attend. Conventions and conferences are special events, not regular meetings. They require months of planning, preparation, and money to present. Since most events are held in hotels/convention centers, the hotel/convention center will require that the group purchase coffee and food. Other expenses include travel and lodging for conference speakers, printing of flyers and schedules, postage and supplies. A large event requires a substantial amount of money. This conference is self-supporting. No group monies are used to pay for the event. The cost of the event is paid through registration fees. No baskets are passed. The ideal goal for any committee of such an event is to break even; therefore, the registration fee is nominal compared to a weekend's worth of entertainment anywhere else. Many groups of AA members from the world over have been attending these conferences for years. Groups form to take the most advantage of its buying power for travel and lodging expenses, hence, they often need to incorporate a small application fee in order to ensure that they, "break even". Attendance at a convention/conference is voluntary, furthermore attending as a part of a group is completely optional, but as responsible AA members, we must "pay our own way".