When we hear the term ‘sponsorship,’ our minds often jump to business relationships and promotional strategies. This is a common perception, given its prevalence in marketing and business contexts. However, sponsorship encompasses a much broader spectrum, with its core rooted in the concepts of ‘support’ and ‘help.’ One notable example of this type of sponsorship is the support provided to recovering alcoholics.
Indeed, even those battling destructive addictions need sponsors. Unlike marketing sponsorships, where the goal is ‘exposure,’ sponsoring alcoholics aims to provide the necessary means for recovery and a return to a stable life.
Historically, Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) began with the practice of sponsorship. This involved an alcoholic sharing their experience, hope, and strength with fellow alcoholics. Over time, this practice was formalized and developed into a powerful tool for achieving permanent sobriety.
Every member of AA is eligible to become a sponsor. As a sponsor, they have the opportunity to help new members who wish to achieve sobriety. This form of sponsorship is not financially based; instead, it serves as a personal support system in the recovery process.
Sponsors act as teachers, friends, tutors, older siblings, and experienced guides to their sponsees. Essentially, a sponsor in the AA program is someone who has gone through the twelve-step recovery guide themselves. This shared experience allows sponsees to relate to their sponsors through mutual storytelling and support.
Choosing the Right Sponsor
For a recovering alcoholic, finding a sponsor is akin to choosing a best friend. Sponsees have the freedom to decide who their sponsor should be, which can be a beneficial process. However, selecting the best sponsor is not always straightforward, as qualifications can vary among available sponsors, sometimes leading to confusion.
One solution is the use of temporary sponsors. These members provide an easier transition for sponsees before they find the right sponsor. Temporary sponsors offer essential information for recovering alcoholics and serve as temporary guides, answering any questions or clarifications a sponsee may have regarding their situation and progress in AA.
When deciding on a sponsor, consider the following factors:
• The potential sponsor should be able to relate to the sponsee.
• They should have more time in recovery than the sponsee.
• They should be available for personal meetings, phone conversations, and group discussions.
• They should live by the guidelines of the twelve-step program.
• They should be a friend and a firm guide to the sponsee.
• They should emphasize the spiritual aspects of the program.
• They should be able to ‘walk the talk’ in all affairs.
By understanding the broader concept of sponsorship and its application in recovery programs like AA, we can appreciate its profound impact beyond business and marketing. To understand how to fight your drinking habits, see 7 Ways to Drink Less Alcohol.