Heartfelt Thank You
On behalf of everyone in our A.A. and Al-Anon communities, we want to extend our deepest gratitude to all the volunteers who made this event possible. Your dedication, compassion, and hard work have created a space for recovery, support, and connection. Whether you were setting up, organizing, or simply offering a kind word, your efforts did not go unnoticed, and they reflect the true spirit of fellowship. We couldn't have done this without you, and for that, we are immensely grateful. Thank you for giving your time, energy, and heart to this important event.
We have found that volunteering to do service significantly improves the quality of our recovery. By giving back, we not only help others but also strengthen our own journey.
Remember, you get what you give. Join us in making a positive impact and enhancing our recovery community.
Helping Hands
Give a 'Helping Hand' for someone who wants to go to the conference but can't afford it. The purpose is to ensure that anyone who wants to benefit from the recovery and support available at these events is able to participate, regardless of financial constraints. This embodies the spirit of mutual support and fellowship central to A.A.'s mission.
Since 1993, the Monterey Bay Area Roundup (MBAR) has steadily grown in size and significance since its inception, As the event continues to evolve, it remains deeply rooted in the spiritual principles of A.A. and Al-Anon, with a strong focus on fostering personal growth, mutual support, and spiritual development.
Throughout its history, the Roundup has played a vital role in the lives of countless individuals and families, providing a space where they can find hope, healing, and fellowship in their recovery journey.
Explore past conferences, flyers, and A.A./Al-Anon speaker recordings to catch a glimpse of our next MBAR.
Translating a website into Spanish is important because it ensures that essential recovery resources are accessible to Spanish-speaking individuals. In Alcoholics Anonymous(A.A.) and Al-Anon, inclusivity is key to reaching as many people as possible who need support. By offering a Spanish-language version of the site, we can better serve the diverse needs of our community, making sure that everyone, regardless of language, has the opportunity to find help and connect with others on their recovery journey.
Why do we have MBAR?
A.A. conventions are more than just social gatherings; they are spiritual retreats, educational opportunities, and celebrations of sobriety that help individuals and families stay connected to the principles of Alcoholics Anonymous. They foster fellowship, provide opportunities for personal and spiritual growth, and serve as a reminder that recovery is a lifelong journey supported by community and a Higher Power.
Frequent contact with newcomers and with each other is the bright spot of our lives.
Big Book p89(Open pdf in browser)
(This is the paragraph from page 89 above.)"Life will take on new meaning. To watch people recover, to see them help others, to watch loneliness vanish, to see a fellowship grow up about you, to have a host of friends—this is an experience you must not miss. We know you will not want to miss it."
It is a fellowship in Alcoholics Anonymous. There you will find release from care, boredom and worry. Your imagination will be fired. Life will mean something at last. The most satisfactory years of your existence lie ahead. Thus, we find the fellowship, and so will you.
Big Book p152(Open pdf in browser)
(This is the paragraph from page 152 above.)"Yes, there is a substitute and it is vastly more than that. It is a fellowship in Alcoholics Anonymous. There you will find release from care, boredom and worry. Your imagination will be fired. Life will mean something at last. The most satisfactory years of your existence lie ahead. Thus we find the fellowship, and so will you."
Over the years, the Monterey Bay Area Roundup has grown to include a variety of activities that support personal and spiritual growth, including:
- Speaker Meetings: These sessions often feature A.A. or Al-Anon members who share their stories of experience, strength, and hope.
- Workshops and Panels: Topics cover the practical aspects of maintaining sobriety, such as sponsorship, emotional well-being, and staying spiritually connected.
- Fellowship and Social Events: Dances, meals, and informal gatherings provide opportunities for participants to bond and share experiences outside of formal meetings.
- Volunteerism and Service: Many participants volunteer their time and effort to help organize the event, reflecting A.A.'s and Al-Anon's tradition of service as a key element of recovery.
2024 Marathon Meetings
Marathon meetings are a crucial part of A.A. and Al-Anon conventions because they provide continuous support and fellowship for all. These meetings offer a space for members to share their experiences, strength, and hope around the clock, ensuring that help is always available when needed.
If you would like to be of service, or be a speaker at a meeting or submit your marathon meeting schedule, please contact our A.A Marathon Chair: Mark S. or our Spanish-Speaking Chair: Robert or our Al-Anon Marathon Chair: Olya O.
