With support from the Champlain Valley National Heritage Partnership and private donors we are undertaking a multi-year research project looking at the experience of members of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) in Vermont.
AA Founders Dr. Bob Smith and Bill Wilson.
AA was founded in Akron, OH in 1935 by Vermonters Bill Wilson (b. 1895, East Dorset) and Bob Smith (b. 1879, St. Johnsbury). The impact of the 12 step approach to addiction recovery developed by Wilson, Smith and the other founders of AA continues to influence approaches to addiction treatment to the present day, and inspired the establishment of new fellowships such as NA for drug addiction, Alanon for family members of alcoholics, and others dedicated to gambling, eating disorders, and a wide range addictive behaviors.
The 12 step model pioneered by AA represents one of many approaches to addiction recovery—and, through its founders, it holds an historic connection to Vermont. The Twelve Step Recovery in Vermont project explores the significance of this connection in the present day, and treats the legacy of founders Wilson and Smith as an entry point for exploring and documenting the personal stories of Vermont AA and NA members working to overcome addiction present.
With the support of partners the Wilson House and Divided Sky, we will conduct interviews with the goals of: Understanding the contemporary experience of AA and NA in Vermont; exploring the awareness among Vermont AA and NA members about Vermont’s role in the history of the 12 step movement; determining how Vermont’s connections to the foundation of 12 step recovery might inform their participation in these fellowships; and other topics related to alcoholism, addiction recovery, and the revolution brought about by the 12 step model.