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World Service Business Convention Report - 2023

Overview, WSB Chair
Our Primary Purpose
Opening Remarks, WSB Vice Chair
Treasurer’s Report
Bylaws Committee Report
Elections and WSB Members
Motions
Highlights from Chapters and Intergroups
Highlights from WSI Committees
Closing Remarks, WSB Chair

A LETTER FROM THE WSB CHAIR

The following report details the 21st Annual FA World Service Business Convention (WSBC), held June 2-4, 2023 in Danvers, Massachusetts. Whether you attended the Business Convention or not, all are encouraged to read the report in its entirety. Questions may be directed to fa@foodaddicts.org.

The Convention In Brief:

There were 519 registered attendees, including 195 voting members from Australia, Canada, Great Britain, Ireland, Sweden, South Africa and Taiwan, 35 of the 50 states and the District of Columbia.

The Business Convention included a general overview of FA’s history and structure, six motions, opening and closing remarks, our treasurer’s report, election of the 2023-2024 World Service Board, and acknowledgement of and appreciation for our outgoing board members. We also heard updates from all the WSI Committee chairs as well as the chairs from the Maine Chapter, the Western Area Intergroup, and the Eastern Area Intergroup.

The past few years have been challenging and we have been through so much change in our personal lives and as a fellowship. I am so grateful to know that the one thing that hasn’t changed is the power of one fellow helping another. It is that foundation of service that is at the center of FA and it was on full display at the Business Convention. I hope you will read the full report so you can see the breadth and depth of the service fellows are doing around the world.

On behalf of the World Service Board, I want to say thank you for all you do to keep FA growing and strong. Never underestimate the power of that phone call to a fellow, your hello to a newcomer at an in-person meeting or that smile to a fellow in the breakout room at a virtual meeting. Every act of service has an impact! I am grateful to be on this journey with you as we work to support each other and reach the still suffering food addict.

Thank you so much for the support and service you have given the fellowship.

Yours in service,

Lisa S., WSB Chair

OUR PRIMARY PURPOSE

Practically speaking, the World Service Business Convention fulfills our legal obligation. As an international non-profit organization, we are required, for instance, to meet annually to provide conference members with a financial report and an opportunity to elect board members.

It is important to know that structurally, FA is a “bottom- up” service organization. World Service, Inc., or WSI, is here to help reach the newcomer by serving FA as a whole and by supporting intergroups. Intergroups support chapters and meetings, who in turn support the most important entity—the individual FA member. WSI officers, committee chairs, and committee members are not here to exercise power or authority. It is just the opposite. Their role is to humbly serve and support.

FA_At_A_Glance

To be useful to the overall fellowship, WSI needs some amount of formal organization. This includes a board made up of four officers and nine committee chairs. The specific committees are Bylaws, connection, Convention Planning, Literature, Office, PI, Service Group Support, Traditions Review, and Twelfth Step. Forty subcommittees support these WSI standing committees.

Five additional committees – Finance, Personnel, Design, Inquiry Response, and Board Motions Review – support the board. Each year, if needed, the Resolutions Committee is available to support the conference with main motions.

OPENING REMARKS, WSB VICE CHAIR, (Jen N.)

Good Morning, everyone! My name is Jen and I am a food addict.

I had a well scripted, prepared and practiced set of remarks to share with you today. I wrote them about 5 weeks ago and with the help of a few fellows and Chat GPT, I thought they were pretty good. However, after practicing them yesterday, something didn’t feel quite right. And then early this morning on my knees, I realized that what I had written was not really from my heart. I’ve always heard what comes from the heart, reaches the heart.

So that being said, welcome to you all. There are many of you I know and many I have yet to meet but I can say confidently that I love and appreciate each and every one of you. I am so grateful you are here today. I have been in FA for over half my life and I have attended every convention since joining. I know many of you have as well. It never ceases to amaze me the lengths that people go to to prioritize attending the convention. This commitment is meaningful and has contributed to my recovery and to our overall program immensely.

Over the years, I have watched many different individuals stand at this podium. We have heard our trusted leaders talk about unity in a variety of different ways. FA was formed on the basis of unity. We differentiate ourselves from other food programs because of our unified definition of abstinence. While we are all unified over the desire to recover from the horrific disease of food addiction, we find ourselves faced with issues that divide us. I am not here to talk about unity though, what I would like to talk about today is change.

As an FA community, we have seen a lot of change over the past many years. Change is good but it can also be hard. Some of us embrace it and others resist it. I sit somewhere in the middle. I believe some of the change we are navigating in FA is a result of our maturation. Our organization is maturing, and we as individuals are as well. In the past few years, we have witnessed the passing of many of our beloved early members, watched and experienced serious health concerns, supported each other through the loss of loved ones and the associated grief, and withstood the unknowns of a global pandemic. We have also celebrated with each other through births, marriages, graduations, career transitions, and personal milestones. This is a fellowship of individuals who genuinely care about one another.

In the 2023 AA board convention report, one of the speakers shared a powerful message that resonated with me, “...while the Steps, Traditions, and Concepts may never change, the fellowship they serve does.” While we have not recently completed a census, the demographics of our fellowship have changed dramatically since 1998. We went from a fellowship of 100 to a fellowship of over 7,500 international members representing nearly 79 countries. Not only has the makeup of our organization changed, but so has how we interact with our fellowship. Change is inevitable, but to be of service, we must accept and adapt to the new realities of our evolving world - without compromising the solution we all know works.

We MUST address critical issues facing our organization, such as:

The legal consequences of providing advice about medication,
The importance of diversity and equity within our community - how do we ensure that we welcome all who suffer from this disease- regardless of race, ethnicity, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, ableism, or any other aspect of our identities?
Adapting to a digital age where technology is changing rapidly.
And accessibility as it relates to our World Service Business Convention.

We have strong convictions, ideas, and the desire to do what we believe is God's will. There are different opinions within our fellowship about how we should approach these issues. That is okay. I am grateful that we are a group of individuals with different perspectives. I would not want it any other way. Some of us may feel strongly that these issues are outside of our primary purpose as a recovery program. Others insist they are essential to our mission of carrying the message of recovery to all who need it. We can find ourselves as polarized as the broader political scene. As a fellowship, it is my genuine hope that we can work together towards actions that honor our principles and support the recovery of all members.

I have had many internal conflicts, concerns, and difficult conversations with my fellows about what this all means. I have found myself resistant to changing technology and conflicted about the role of medication in our broader society. I have used language that has unknowingly hurt others and reinforced negative assumptions and beliefs around gender, age, and race. With an open mind comes growth. I am learning and grateful to be in an organization that reflects the larger world. I work in tech, and these exact expectations around growth and change exist there. We cannot remain static and expect that we will continue to be helpful to those that are suffering. FA is not an island for the exclusive few- we exist in a broader world where inclusion issues are increasingly important.

As members of this principled fellowship, we must respect our diversity of opinions while also engaging in meaningful conversations and discussions around these important issues. The more we can respect our differences the less divided we will be.

A simple example; I prefer live meetings:

I get to step away from home, eliminate distractions, see people from head to toe, welcome newcomers, and feel entirely connected.
However, that does not diminish the importance of virtual meetings and the access it provides to a fellowship for hundreds of food addicts.
Because of my experience, I encourage my sponsees to attend in-person meetings when possible, but I do not discourage virtual meetings either. There is not a better or worse option; they are simply different,

In the final board report from AA’s 2022 convention, the keynote shared some AA history. In the 1960 General Service Conference, Bill W. shares his opinion on technology:

“Nothing matters more to A.A.’s future welfare than the manner in which we use the colossus of modern communication. Used unselfishly and well, it can produce results surpassing our present imagination.”
Our unity depends on communication. Our functioning depends on communication. This Conference is a great network of communication.”

In FA, technology has allowed us to carry the FA message to those looking for help. After all, where would we be without the phone or the internet? And while the sophistication of our technology has changed and the nature of how some of us meet has changed, it has served a vital purpose. So many of us are here today because FA has embraced the digital age.

Given the sometimes overwhelming challenges I’ve only touched upon, we need to lean into the principles of our program more than ever. We must be honest with ourselves and each other about our concerns and fears and be humble enough to listen to and learn from each other. By our traditions, FA is open to ALL, so we must ask ourselves, are we being welcoming? When a viewpoint upsets us, do we ask ourselves, what is happening with ME? These are important questions.

When considering the motions today, please rest assured that these motions were created with the best of intentions. They aim to address important issues stemming from a growing and evolving fellowship. They were created after thoughtful consideration and collaboration. The literature, self-certification, gender pronoun, and WSC member motion were designed to address the needs of our diverse and growing fellowship. The substantial unanimity was designed to address inconsistencies within our bylaws/concepts.

I have often come to a convention thinking I would vote one way and, after hearing from the conference, voted another way. Our governing documents are not dictated by a select few but decided through group conscience. I rely on this conference in two ways: 1) to help me understand my position on the motions, and 2) to help guide the fellowship in our voting to form our group conscience. Discussion and varying opinions are vital in this process. Though some decisions have left me upset in the past, I always take comfort that God works through group conscience.

As the 24 hour a day book states on May 30th, “AA may be human in its organization, but it is Divine in its purpose.” Change is inevitable but as we serve each other through abstinence and recognize that our higher power, as reflected in our group conscience, will guide us as we continue to come of age as an organization.

What a privilege to be one of this fellowship, and I am grateful for each of you who has decided to be here today.

Thank you.

TREASURER’S REPORT, (Mac M.)

As we talk about FA’s finances, it’s important to remember that we all approach financial management through the lens of our own experience: the financial positions of ourselves and our families, how we handled (or didn’t handle) our money as active addicts, and how we approach our finances in recovery. In FA, we approach our finances with these spiritual principles:

Our primary purpose is to help the still suffering food addict, and we use our finances to do that;
Concept Twelve tells us that we should have sufficient operating funds plus an ample prudent reserve;
Tradition Seven tells us that we should be self-supporting, not soliciting or accepting outside donations;
When there are funds beyond the prudent reserve at the various levels of FA, they get used to help the still suffering food addict: at the meeting level, at the local service group, Chapter, or Intergroup level, and at the World Service level.

Summary for the year July 1, 2022-June 30, 2023 (May-June estimated)

Beginning balance	354,500
	Income	Expenses
Donations & Interest	235,600
Operating Expenses		233,000
Literature	54,500	52,500
Business Convention	106,800	95,000
Projects		8,900
Total	396,900	389,400
Net Income	7,500

Projected Budget for the year July 1, 2023-June 30, 2024

Beginning balance	362,400
	Income	Expenses
Donations & Interest	235,400
Operating Expenses		220,600
Literature	43,300	45,000
Conventions	145,000	130,000
Projects		15,200
Total	423,700	410,800
Net Income	12,900

FA is seeing the following financial trends post-COVID:

Donations make up a larger percentage of FA’s inflows.
- Donations from members make up a larger percentage of overall donations.
- Meeting donations increased after the WSB message about finances in January 2023, and we are grateful to meeting treasurers for their efforts. That said, FA had 625 registered in-person meetings as of the 2019 business convention, but 362 registered meetings (in person, videoconference, and teleconference) as of the 2023 business convention. As a result, individual donations to WSI continue to be critical.
Literature expenses fell, but literature income fell by a larger percentage than expenses.
Operating expenses are growing, but generally consistent.

Those with questions about FA’s finances joined Mac M. for a Treasurer eForum “Ask Me Anything” session on June 4, 2023 at the World Service Business Convention. Topics discussed included how to transfer a seventh tradition to a new treasurer at a virtual meeting, the treasurer's report format, and how to collect the seventh tradition at a virtual meeting. Anyone with questions about these topics or who wants to receive a copy of the full financial report can submit a request to treasurer@foodaddicts.org.

As we move forward in the new year, please keep these suggestions in mind:

Donate what you can when you can. When those who can give, do give, those who can’t give don’t have to.
- If you’re a meeting treasurer, don’t forget to pass along excess funds to your local service group, Chapter, Intergroup, and to World Service.
Subscribe to connection. It makes a great gift! I always renew my subscription in June, because I get reminded to do so at the Business Convention.
If you want to make a personal donation to WSI, keep in mind these donation limits:
- Any FA member can donate up to $3,000 per year directly to WSI. This does not include amounts donated to the Seventh Tradition collection at FA meetings.
  - You can make a one-time donation or set up a convenient monthly recurring donation to WSI or your Intergroup or Chapter at http://www.foodaddicts.org/donate-now.
- Any FA member can make a one-time bequest of up to $5,000 for FA in their will.

Thank you for all you do to support our fellowship. Whether you’re donating your money or your time, you are making it possible for us to help the still-suffering food addict.

BYLAWS COMMITTEE REPORT, (Margaret O., Chair)

Description of Committee

The Bylaws Committee meets regularly to review the bylaws, governing documents, procedural documents such as the WSC member manual, and address related issues. If amendments to the bylaws are required or recommended, the bylaws committee prepares and presents the motions at the WSBC.

Chair Report

The bylaws committee met regularly this past year to discuss, debate, and draft motions concerning bylaws amendments and changes to the standing rules of order.

Summaries of the six motions presented at this year’s business convention and the results of the votes are shown below. The updated bylaws and standing rules of order will be posted on the FA website by early August 2023.

MOTIONS

MOTION	SOURCE	RESULT	VOTE MARGIN
1. Teens/twenties pamphlet	Literature Committee	passed	over 2/3
2. Self-certification of officers and trustees	World Service Board	passed	over 2/3
3. Gender-inclusive language	Bylaws Committee	passed	over 2/3
4. Substantial unanimity	World Service Board	passed	over 2/3
5. Numeric value for substantial unanimity	World Service Board	passed	over 2/3
6. Increase number of voting members	Bylaws Committee	referred to committee	over 2/3

Motion Details

1. Teens/Twenties pamphlet

The WSI Literature Committee moved that the 2023 World Service Conference adopt its revision of the pamphlet “Food Addiction: Teens and Twenties in Recovery.”

The motion passed, and the revised pamphlet was therefore adopted. The adoption of this motion will be noted in FA’s standing rules of order. The pamphlet revision includes a new introduction that clearly defines food addiction and the FA solution as well as experiences of recovering food addicts who came into FA in their teens and twenties.

2. Self-certification

The World Service Board moved that officers and trustees of WSI, WSC members, and all others seeking to fill service positions defined in the FA WSI Bylaws shall self-certify that they meet the requirements stated in the FA WSI Bylaws for those service positions. Self-certification does not require the signing of any documentation aside from any application form routinely required for a given position.

The motion passed, so this language will be added to FA’s standing rules of order.

3. Gender-inclusive language

The WSI Bylaws Committee moved that sections 4(a) and 6(a) of Article V of the bylaws be amended to avoid use of the pronouns “his” and “her,” as follows:

Article V. Officers and Trustees

Section 4. Nomination Procedures and Election Rotation

(a) Any member of the fellowship who meets the qualifications stated in section 3 of this article and who seeks nomination for an officer or trustee position shall submit a resume to the current WSB at least 90 days prior to the WSBC.

Section 6. Resignations, Removals, and Vacancies

(a) Resignation of an officer or trustee is effective immediately upon written notice to the WSI chair or secretary, unless such notice specifies a later time at which resignation will become effective. Officers and trustees who break their abstinence will be deemed to have resigned as of the time the WSI chair or secretary receives notice of the break.

The motion passed, so this language will be inserted into the bylaws to replace the previous versions of these two subsections.

4. Substantial unanimity

The World Service Board moved to amend Article VIII, section 3, by adding the following language as a new subsection “g”:

g. Main motions require a vote of substantial unanimity to pass.

The motion passed, so this language will be added to the bylaws.

5. Numeric value for substantial unanimity

The World Service Board moves that unless the WSC votes otherwise before debate begins on a main motion, substantial unanimity for purposes of the vote on a main motion shall be set at two-thirds.

The motion passed, so this language will be added to FA’s standing rules of order.

6. Increase number of voting members

The WSI Bylaws Committee moved that Article IV, section 1(e), of the FA WSI Bylaws be modified as shown below:

Article IV. Constituent Groups

Section 1. FA Meeting Group (a/k/a FA Meeting or FA Group)

(e) Each FA meeting group may elect two members who regularly attend that meeting to be WSC members to represent the fellowship at the WSBC, following the requirements defined in Article III, Section 2(b).

The motion did not go to a vote. Instead, a motion was offered and passed to refer the matter of whether and how to increase participation at business conventions to a committee to be appointed by the WSI chair; to include members of the WSI Bylaws Committee, the WSI 12th Step Committee, and the WSI Convention Planning Committee; and to report back to the Conference within eight months.

2023-2024 FA World Service Board

The election of new board officers and committee chairs was done by acclamation, as all of the candidates ran unopposed. The 2023-2024 board is shown below.

POSITION	NAME	CURRENT TERM
Chair	Lisa S., Maryland	2022-2024
Vice chair	Jen N., Massachusetts	2022-2024
Secretary	Sarah B., Texas	2023-2025
Treasurer	Patricia W., California	2023-2025
12th Step Chair	Yolanda P., Texas	2023-2025
Bylaws	Margaret O., Florida/Minnesota	2023-2024*
connection	Joanna A., Maryland	2022-2024
Convention planning	Cayce K., North Carolina	2022-2024
Literature	Barbara S., Florida	2023-2025
Office	Stacy T., California	2022-2024
Public Information	Maggie M., Massachusetts	2023-2025
Service Group Support	Regina M., Massachusetts	2023-2025
Traditions Review	Cheryl W., Michigan	2022-2024

*The bylaws chair was appointed by the chair in March 2023 to complete the two-year term begun by the previous bylaws chair in 2022.

Any questions regarding Bylaws may be emailed to bylaws@foodaddicts.org.

Highlights from Chapters and Intergroups

Eastern Area Intergroup (Jennifer H., Chair)

Overview of EAI affairs:

We conducted an in depth review and voted to update the entire bylaws document, to be in line with the language of the WSI bylaws if necessary, and to change the dates of our elections from May to February so that only new officers are able to vote in the convention.
The Maine Chapter has been affiliated with the Eastern Area Intergroup since the beginning of 2002 and continues to support meetings and reach other food addicts in their region.
No motions were brought to World Service.
EAI remains a virtual platform. Committee members from around the world meet to do service.

EAI Committee Report

12th Step Committee

The EAI 12th Step Committee hosted four informal gatherings

April 2022 - Joy of Living

July 2022 - Welcome Newcomer

October 2022 - Sponsoring

February 2023 - The H.O.W. Of Sponsoring

Provided support for Thank-a-Thons by providing a script and slideshow for meetings to use.

Office Committee

The Office Committee updated the EAI Literature Kit and EAI Secretary Kit to include video and phone meeting information. These are available on the EAI documents and information webpage.
The new meeting Welcome Letter was reviewed by Office Committee Chair, 12th Step Committee Chair, and PI Committee Chair to assure it was current.
Meeting requests for new and closed meetings, and updates to meeting information were processed.

Financial Aid and Resources Committee

Created resource documents: format, task list, description of service position responsibilities, etc. to present a Virtual Public Information Session (VPIS).
Created a Guide- to organize and run a Virtual Information Session for FA Meetings and LSGs. All Resource Documents and Guide can be accessed via a QR code.

Service Support Weekend Planning Committee

Successfully planned a 2-day virtual event sharing on the topic of “Service in Many Forms”. Our committee coordinated 120 volunteers to host an event for 200 fellows from all around the world.

Public Information Committee

Created resource documents: format, task list, description of service position responsibilities, etc. to present a Virtual Public Information Session (VPIS).
Created a Guide- to organize and run a Virtual Information Session for FA Meetings and LSGs. All Resource Documents and Guide can be accessed via a QR code.

Service Group Support Committee

Provided links on the EAI SGSC webpage for submitting LSG materials and a link to download available materials–called the LSG Toolbox.
Created Funding Application for LSGs.
Provided a link on the EAI SGSC web page for LSGs to submit updates for their meeting day, time, and contact.

Bylaws Committee

Reviewed all EAI Bylaws- (suggested by M. Malamut- 2017-present) and conducted an FA-EAI body vote for changes in FA-EAI Bylaws.
Successfully conducted FA-EAI date change for new officers, from the elections at the EAI meeting prior to WSC, to the month of February.
Bylaws Chair working closely with WSI + WAI Bylaws Chairs to further the mission of FA.

Teens and Twenties Committee

Coordinated and facilitated information sessions throughout the year.
Coordinated contact with middle and high schools and colleagues in Massachusetts to plan outreach events.

Information Technology Committee

Joined with the tech teams from WSI, WAI and the Maine Chapter to provide Fellowship Technology Office Hours for the entire fellowship twice every month on Zoom. This new collaborative group is also working to develop a Technical FAQs document for the FA website.
Transitioned all EAI Board members’ and Committee Chairs’ email, Google Drive and Zoom accounts from gmail accounts to foodaddicts.org accounts

Treasurer Committee

Added a savings account to hold our prudent reserve money.
Added a second signer to our account (allows for someone being able to pay bills if the first signer becomes incapacitated for any reason).
Creating a budget to determine future financial needs.

EAI Board Officers and Committee Chairs:

Bylaws – Evelyn C., eaibylaws@foodaddicts.org

Financial Aid Resources Committee – Bronna G., eaifinancialaidandres@foodaddicts.org

Information Technology – Jakki T., eaiit@foodaddicts.org

Office Services & Support – Sherry H., eaioffice@foodaddicts.org

Public Information – Kathryn W., eaipi@foodaddicts.org

Service Support – Akia W., eaiservicesupport@foodaddicts.org

Service Support Weekend Planning – Caroline B., sswplanning@foodaddicts.org

Teens and Twenties – Chi Chi E., eaiteensandtwenties@foodaddicts.org

12th Step – Maggie O., eai12thstep@foodaddicts.org

Treasurer – Don D., eaitreasurer@foodaddicts.org

Secretary – Donna C., eaisecretary@foodaddicts.org

Vice Chair – Katie W., eaivicechair@foodaddicts.org

Respectfully submitted,

Jennifer H., FA-EAI Chair, eaichair@foodaddicts.org

Western Area Intergroup (Jamie M., Chair)

This year has been a year of change and growth for the Western Area Intergroup (WAI).

We created a central WAI calendar of all Committee meetings, events, and deadlines for the purpose of ensuring that our Intergroup agendas are timely and productive. This calendar assists the committee chairs in coordinating Committee meeting group events to avoid scheduling conflicts.

We also created a dynamic and engaging monthly Intergroup report entitled “The Scoop on Intergroup”. It is designed to be a user-friendly document to read at meetings or online and to highlight service opportunities. There are live links embedded in the newsletter summary designed to facilitate service with direct links to the WAI or WSI sections of the Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous website.

The featured sections are:

You Won’t Want To Miss This!

This section is dedicated to WAI and WSI highlights such as announcements regarding the World Service Business Convention or WAI Committee sponsored events or accomplishments.

Service Opportunities - Do good. Feel good.

A section devoted to featuring service opportunities offered by our WAI Committees such as a call for Spanish speaking members who would like to help with Spanish translations or Public Information endeavors regarding health fairs. Here we provide the link for WSI Service opportunities.

Progress…Not Perfection - What’s in the Works

In this section we feature future events such as E-forums hosted by our 12^th Step Committee or an announcement regarding a new video in production designed to educate fellows about the Service Group Support Committee’s work.

New In-Person Meetings - Spread the Word!

Here we list the new in-person meetings and provide the locations, days, and times of the meetings.

Bylaws Committee

Has been kept busy with the task of reviewing, revising, and updating the WAI bylaws to bring them up to the current changes in WSI and align them with the EAI bylaws.

Office Committee

Developed an Intergroup Orientation Committee for new members
Helped to facilitate the distribution of pre-Covid literature to new meetings
Continues to support new and existing meetings
Worked diligently to register all in-person, videoconference, and phone meetings in the Western Area Intergroup Region.
- We have registered 150 meetings: 8 Phone meetings, 66 In-Person Meetings and 76 Videoconference meetings.

PI Committee

Created a database to inventory previous health fairs that FA participated in before Covid.
- Most of the health fairs were in the Northern California region.
Formed a committee to reconnect with the health fairs with a script available for fellows making these calls.
Hosted tables at in-person health fairs in Northern California, Western Canada, and the Dallas area.
- These events have been held at churches, colleges, and at professional events including one for therapists.
- The next step will be to find similar health fairs in other regions.

Service Group Support Committee

Will support efforts to ensure that there are a reasonable number of local members available to make Public Information events successful.
- It is now being suggested that, when possible and appropriate, someone bring a laptop to the booth/table and run the Healthcare Professional video or the Healthcare Professional slides on a loop.

Technology Committee

Has supported the virtual WAI meetings throughout the year
Partnered with the EAI and WSI Technology committees to offer our Fellowship Technology Office hours once per month.
Working with the EAI and WSI tech teams to create tutorials and training to support the fellowship with relevant technology topics.
The Tech committee held in-person tech office hours during the convention this year.

Convention Resource Committee

Coordinated and facilitated efforts to provide financial assistance to 12 WSC Voting members and WSI Committee members so that they could attend the World Service Convention this year.

12^th Step Committee

Coordinated three International Thank-a-thons in Canada, Australia, and the U.S.
12th Step Sub Committee E Forums, presented a video and discussion on Crosstalk.
Forming a new sub-committee to plan more video conference sessions.
Working to produce additional informative videos.
Meeting every two weeks to work on outreach and getting the word out.
connection Sub-committee coordinates writing sessions during the WAI monthly meeting and Spanish Meetings Sub-Committee coordinates in-person Spanish meetings rotating in the Central Valley of California and is eagerly waiting for the completion of the translation of the FA book into Spanish.

Service Group Support Committee (SGSC)

Supported the special composition Spanish Language Local Service Group by offering the first ever Spanish connection writing workshop on May 20.
Updated the LSG guidelines, available on the FA website.
- Local Service Groups (LSG) are reactivating, and new groups are forming.
Contributed to WAI service by attending health fairs, holding public information sessions, and organizing other community outreach such as placing the FA book in public libraries.

WAI Finances

Finances are stable with consistent monthly donations from individuals and meetings.
WAI has a prudent reserve adequate to fund one year of ongoing operating expenses.
WAI is able to provide financial assistance for 12 WSC voting members and to WSI Committee members to attend the World Service Business Convention.
This May WAI implemented the use of PayPal's Giving Fund to eliminate processing fees for all donations made to the Giving Fund and designated for WAI.
In the last calendar year WAI donated $14,000 to WSI and so far in 2023, WAI was able to donate $10,000 to WSI.

WAI Board Officers and Committee Chairs:

Chair: Jamie M. waichair@foodaddicts.org
Vice Chair: Ellen R. waivicechair@foodaddics.org
Secretary: Diane P. waisecretary@foodaddicts.org
Treasurer: Patricia W. waitreasurer@foodaddicts.org
Bylaws: Risa K. waibylaws@foodaddicts.org
Office: Julie B. waioffice@foodaddicts.org
PI: Thelma W. waipi@foodaddicts.org
Technology: Lisa L. waitechnology@foodaddicts.org
Convention Resource: Linda Y. waiconventionresource@foodaddicts.org
12th Step: Diana C. wai12thstep@foodaddicts.org
Service Group Support: Susan F. waisgsc@foodaddicts.org

Respectfully submitted,

Jamie M. WAI chair

Maine Chapter Report (Catherine R., Chair)

Summary:

The FA-EAI Maine Chapter was established in 2002. The Chapter met monthly using a video conferencing platform to support the recovery of current FA members and to ensure information about the FA program remains accessible to anyone seeking recovery from food addiction. The Chapter serves meetings throughout Maine, Southern New Hampshire border communities, and members who join us virtually.

Registered Meetings in the Maine Chapter:

Number of Individual Meetings
Beginning Fiscal Year 2021-22	22 In-person meetings
End of Fiscal Year 2022	11 virtual meetings
End of Fiscal Year 2023	12 meetings - 8 video conference, 2 in-person, and 2 telephone meetings

Changes due to Covid and restructuring of meetings with new FA meeting guidelines.

The Office Committee (MEOffice@foodaddicts.org)

Maintained communication between meetings by emailing monthly Highlights to meeting contacts and affiliated members. The Highlights provide information about resources available to meetings, upcoming events and service opportunities for FA members.
Updated the meeting directory monthly, maintained the Maine pages on the FA website and continue to offer support and training for the Chapter Board to use the Google Workspace.
Produced and/or distributed the monthly Maine Chapter Meeting Directory, FA Maine Chapter Highlights & and the 12th Step Outreach/Service List to Chapter Contacts and other interested persons/organizations.
Managed Chapter Post Office Box in Augusta.

The PI Committee (MEPI@foodaddicts.org)

The PI Committee registered and/or helped coordinate 6 events. These included: The Maine Osteopathic Conference Health Fair booth; The Maine Association of Physician Assistants exhibit table; the National Association of Social Worker Conference Information Session; a classroom presentation for the University of Maine Augusta; a Portland Recovery Center Public Information Session; and the Hope Conference - A peer conference on addiction and recovery. Due to these outreach efforts we've had multiple opportunities to present the FA Video and provide PI materials so they can raise awareness about FA in their communities.
With the help of affiliated meetings, the committee coordinated two multi-month ad buys. The Turner Ad buy, mailed free to 134,000 homes in Central Maine and the Forecaster Ad buy, a free publication available at retail outlets in Midcoast, Southern and Westerns Maine.

These ad buys include one month of the article, “Are You Having Trouble Controlling the Way You Eat” and a specialized ad for a PI meeting.

The PI committee supported an article in the April/May issue of Journey Magazine, “Nourishing the Self: Recovery from Food Addiction” and purchased it for future use.
Print and distribute 300+ meeting directories per month via Journey Magazine.
Managed and Coordinated the FA Maine Chapter Phone Information Line.

12th Step Committee: (ME12thstep@foodaddicts.org)

Revisited their purpose and tasks in a post-pandemic environment.
Provided both In-person and virtual road trips to support meetings.
Updated and maintained a Chapter wide 12th Step Outreach List for fellows willing to do service.
Organized and provided a monthly orientation for FA Members attending the Chapter Meeting for the first time.
Updated the Chapter’s 12th Step Outreach/Service List monthly.

Vice Chair Report (MEViceChair@foodaddicts.org)

Drafted the FA Maine Chapter Highlights, a monthly email about resources, activities and service opportunities available throughout the Chapter. This included maintaining a regularly updated list with contact information for meetings.
Served as the Liaison Coordinator, which promotes communication and unity between the FA Maine Chapter and Meetings affiliated with the FA Maine Chapter with a focus on continuous improvement.

Bylaws Committee (MEBylaws@foodaddicts.org)

The Bylaws Chair focused on increasing knowledge regarding governing documents, EAI Bylaws, the 12 Traditions and circulated a schedule and instructions for submitting motions.
The Bylaws Ad Hoc committee reviewed and supported one submission for the 2023 FA World Business Convention.

Intergroup Liaison (MEIGliaison@foodaddicts.org)

Acted as a conduit between EAI and the Chapter regarding resources, current issues, activities and events.

Information Technology Committee (MEITCoordinator@foodaddicts.org)

Joined the EAI Technology Support Committee as well as the WSI, WAI and EAI Tech Committee to assist in consolidation of information and resources, and explore current and future needs.
Provided consultation, review, training and support of technical capacities as requested by Maine Chapter Board Members, Maine Chapter committees and individuals.

Treasurer (METreasurer@foodaddicts.org)

FA EAI Maine Chapter Annual Report of Transactions from June 1, 2022 to May 31, 2023

Income	Amount
Meeting and Maine Chapter 7^th tradition donations	$ 7,230.32
Literature Sales	$ 13.50
Special Funds Donation	$ 2,000.00
Total	$ 9,243.82

Expenses	Amount
Fixed Expenses (Rent, PO Box, Phone)	$ 924.08
Board (including Supplies)	0.00
Office Committee	0.00
Public Information	$ 3,014.93
12th Step Committee	0.00
Meeting Support Day	0.00
Bylaw Committee	0.00
Literature	$ 59.65
WSI/EAI Donations	$ 4,765.00
Special Funds Expenditures
Total Expenses	$ 8,763.66

HIGHLIGHTS FROM WSI COMMITTEES

connection Committee (Joanna A., Chair)

Description of Committee

connection is a monthly magazine written by members of FA for members of FA. We publish ten issues per year, both in print and digitally. The connection Committee is responsible for collecting and editing content, including articles and art, and creating and producing each issue.

Chair Report

This year the connection committee engaged in a lot of discussion about ways to improve connection, engage the fellowship, and garner renewed interest in subscribing and submitting articles and art. We conducted a survey of the fellowship and received approximately 1400 responses. A general summary of the results are:

Some people wanted to see new things, some like connection they way it is. While most felt that they could relate to the articles, others wanted to see more diversity with respect to race, sexual orientation, disability, chronic health issues, class, and atheism/agnosticism, etc. Some wanted to hear more stories from those who have struggled with abstinence but are now abstinent. Similarly, some liked the artwork as is - some wanted to see different mediums and more diversity in the artwork and drawings.

Also, subscriptions and submissions are down. Please consider ordering a subscription for yourself, for friends, and for your meetings. Submissions are also critically low, and we are almost out of archives. Please submit your stories to Articles@foodaddicts.org and art to Art@foodaddicts.org. We need YOU, and we are hoping to receive and are open to publishing new kinds of content.

If you hold a connection representative service position at one of your meetings, it is part of your role to attend the monthly connection representative meeting which takes place typically on the 3rd Sunday of each month. At this meeting, you’ll hear more about what is happening in the committee, receive writing prompts, and receive important information to communicate to your meetings.

Articles Subcommittee (Karen W., Chair)

Built up from 2 to 8 editors which helps to keep up with submissions
Submissions have been increasing but stories are still needed
We have begun to receive submissions in Russian and Spanish
Made improvements to the writing guide to align with the FA book
Selection committee working ahead of schedule and almost all of the 2023 issues have been drafted

Art Subcommittee( Sharon C., Chair)

Updated procedures
Ironed out how to handle submissions sizing issues
Onboarded new art archivist
Organized archives
Discussed doing a virtual art session for fellowship
Worked on response to submissions
Acquired new artists for regular submissions
Discussed diversity in art
Updated artist guidelines and submitted them to the FA website for publication
Updated artist’s contact information

Innovations Subcommittee (Chi Chi E., former Chair, Amy S., former Chair - currently vacant)

Conducted survey of fellowship and reported results to committee
Continued to explore ways to make magazine more engaging

Administrative Subcommittee (Deirdre H., Chair)

Responsible for communications to committee, and taking and distributing meeting minutes
Created new role of keeping apprised or and managing magazine budget

Convention Planning Committee (Cayce K., Chair)

Description of Committee

The Convention planning committee helps plan the Business and Fellowship Conventions.

Chair Report

2023 Business Convention

On June 2-4, 2023 we hosted our 21st annual World Service Business Convention in Danvers, MA. This Convention was the first time we were in-person after the COVID-19 pandemic. What a wonderful time for all of us to be together again!
Five hundred and nineteen members and their guests attended from Australia, Canada, Ireland, Sweden, South Africa, Taiwan, the United Kingdom and the United States.
Business sessions included a general overview of FA's structure, opening and closing remarks, our treasurer's report, six motions, acknowledgement of outgoing and incoming Chairs, and highlights from the Maine Chapter, the Western Area Intergroup, the Eastern Area Intergroup, and WSI committees.Other events included the recording of four new podcasts, WSI Committee meetings, FA qualification and sharing meetings, live entertainment, and our usual annual, lively dance party!
"The Forum” also took place on Friday afternoon. A common definition of “forum” is a “meeting where ideas and views on a particular subject can be exchanged.” This year’s Forum included a series of sharing meetings focused on topics to strengthen individual recovery, FA meetings, and the fellowship at large. The format included an opening session and six breakout discussion sessions, including a recording of the session “Why We Do What We Do: The 90-day Requirement To Share.”

2023 Fellowship Convention

We are looking forward to hosting the 2023 Fellowship Convention at the Arizona Grand Resort and Spa in Phoenix, Arizona, Friday, October 27 – Sunday, October 29, 2023.
At our last Fellowship Convention in 2019, we had over 300 fellows join us for an amazing weekend of fellowship and recovery. This year we are hoping to welcome even more people from the fellowship to the Convention. The more the merrier!
For more information, please check out the Fellowship Convention section of the FA website.

2024 Business Convention

Planning is currently underway to welcome everyone to the 2024 World Service Business Convention taking place May 31 – June 2, 2024. There will be a feedback form sent out to the entire fellowship regarding the format of future business conventions. Please make sure to fill out the form when it arrives in your inbox as we want to hear from you!
Each year at the World Service Business Convention, we hold elections for WSI Officers and Committee Chairs. As 2024 is an even year, we will be accepting nominations for the following positions: WSI chair, vice-chair, bylaws chair, convention planning chair, office chair, connection chair, and traditions review chair.

Literature Committee (Karen L.B., Chair)

Description of Committee

The Literature Committee writes, records, and translates literature for the FA fellowship along with recording podcasts for placement on podcast platforms.

Chair Report (Karen LB.)

The Literature Committee is bringing forth literature in all forms such as written and audio and also increasing the number of pieces of literature produced in the many languages of fellows around the world.

The Writing and Editing Subcommittee (Deborah F.)

Updated “Food Addiction: Stories of Teens and Twenties in Recovery.” This pamphlet was approved by the 2023 conference.
Working on updating “Bulimic? Undereating? Underweight?” and “Food Addiction Stories of Men in Recovery” which will be ready for conference approval in 2024.
The WSB has asked for WES to update “A Guide to Sponsoring” and be ready for approval by the 2024 conference.

Operations Subcommittee (Barbara S.)

Assisted with Literature Committee budget development.
Updated file names to adhere to FA file naming conventions for website
Worked with FA Office to track sales of audiobooks and ebooks via Draft2Digital(47) and FindAway Voices (60)
Made a GoogleSheet that tracks each piece of FA literature and when each was Conference Approved and Revised.
Worked with the Design Committee to prepare revised Living Abstinently booklet for publication.
Worked with various Committee members to prepare the Food Addiction: Stories of Teens and Twenties in Recovery for the Conference
Worked with Translation Subcommittee and Design Committee to revise and prepare for printing:
- Living Abstinently booklet [English]
- Revised and in the process of printing: Living Abstinently booklet [Spanish]
- Adicción a la comida y la solución de FA (Food Addiction and the FA Solution)
- Sólo por Hoy (Just For Today)
- Antes de tomar ese bocado (Before You Take That Bite)
Continuing to work with Translation Subcommittee to translate Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous, Two Chapter booklet [Spanish]

Audiorecording Subcommittee (Paula K.)

Tightened up efforts on providing high quality podcasts with regards to production, reviewing, editing, and titling
Focused on providing a diverse selection of speakers in regards to culture, experience, and identity
21 podcasts uploaded including one in Spanish.
131,200 downloads which is up 65% from last year.
Recorded 4 qualifications at the convention
Recorded a Forum session: Why we do what we do: The 90-day Requirement to Share at the convention to be uploaded to the website this year

Translation Subcommittee (Sherry W.)

Working with the Spanish, Greek, German, Italian, Hebrew, Russian, French, Mandarin Traditional (Taiwan) and Mandarin Simplified (China) language communities to develop their presence on the website.
Arranged for all non-English languages to have their own email address and web page
Translated three Spanish pamphlets and two booklets which are now in the design process.

Office Committee (Stacy T., Chair)

Description of Committee

The Office Committee (or OC) serves as a resource to the fellowship, the World Service Board (WSB) and World Service committees, Intergroups, and Chapters. It facilitates communication between the WSB and the fellowship and its meetings, and maintains the website. The FA website houses all meeting information, informative materials for the general public, as well as materials related to each service body of FA.

The OC also runs the World Service Office (or WSO) which employs administrative staff and keeps records of all financial transactions, as well as some of the archives of the organization. The WSO also serves as the main point of contact regarding inquiries from the general public and is the central hub of communication with the fellowship, the media, health professionals, and newcomers to FA.

Chair’s Report (Stacy T.)

Committee Accomplishment Highlights

Supported and managed FA website improvements
Continued to work on search engine optimization (SEO) for the FA website
Continued to develop the World Service Tech Subcommittee
Launched a twice-monthly newsletter
- Created to keep everyone informed and cut down the amount of separate emails we were sending out previously
- Now distributed to everyone with a profile on the FA website

Logistical Support Subcommittee (Kim H., Chair)

Supported documentation of procedures and instructions for the website and Google Workspace, as needed

SEO Subcommittee (Margaret L., Chair)

This year, we continued to work on search engine optimization (SEO) for the FA website:

YOY we've seen a 340% increase in clicks a 548% increase in impressions
Our average search position is up significantly and total organic search sessions are also up by 198%
In addition, our Google Ads search results are also up 200%

Tech Subcommittee (Mish R., Chair)

In 2022-2023, we continued to develop the World Service Tech Subcommittee, and its three teams: Fellowship Tech Support, WSB Tech Support, and Technology Education. Work we accomplished includes:

Teamed up with WAI, EAI, and the Maine chapter IT committees to offer monthly technology office hours to help and serve individuals and meetings
Created a phone list for fellows who will support other fellows' with tech challenges
Held several Zoom bombing trainings and created materials to support meetings experiencing Zoom bombings
Held trainings for Treasurers of virtual meetings and created a video to help facilitate donations
Supported the WSI FA board with tech support on virtual calls and meetings
Created a tech FAQ sheet
Need tech support on the meeting level or individually? There’s a new page on the website! Go to:
- foodaddicts.org/wsi-tech-team
- Or you can find it by going to:
  - Menu → For Members → Technical Help

Website Projects Subcommittee (Adrienne C.)

This year, we focused on supporting and managing FA website improvements including:

Widened meeting search capability on foodaddicts.org so that fellows can search for meetings by country, state, or city
Improved the meeting finder to allow for meetings to be search by meeting time and local time
Added Favorite Meetings functionality
Now the Meeting Service Positions Report is visible to all Meeting Contacts with one click on your profile page and is downloadable
Added callout banner to homepage to draw attention to the most pressing matters in our fellowship
Added upcoming/next 25 FA meetings to the meeting finder tool to give fellows more options at a glance
Added WSI Tech Team page on the website (see above) and integrated it into the main/homepage menu for easy access/searchability

Public Information Committee (Lisa B., Chair)

Description of Committee

The PI Committee serves as a resource for the fellowship to carry the message of recovery from food addiction through the Twelve Step program of FA to those who still suffer. The committee provides support and resources to local FA intergroups, chapters, meetings, and individuals for their PI work. Using the Twelve Traditions as a guide, we offer help in discerning the most effective and appropriate means of communication to use for the public and the professional community.

Chair’s Report (Lisa B.)

In the past 6 months, as more opportunities for in -person and online outreach have become available, EAI, WAI and Maine Chapter PI Committees have been active with health fairs, information sessions, and presentations to medical practices and classes. The World Service PI Committee has worked behind the scenes to provide materials, work plans, and templates to help these efforts by updating materials on the PI section of the FA website. We encourage all members to explore this section of the website, starting with the Introduction to PI Work page, and its link to the PI Resources page. The "Resources for PI Representatives" page provides detailed steps for outreach work at the meeting and local service group levels.

PI resources are continually under review to support those using them, and recently we have been focusing on refining the slide show and video presentations based on participant feedback, updating, and streamlining the media outreach webpages, and bringing the banners up to date with statistics from the FA member survey. Work has begun on analyzing traffic around the outward facing FA Facebook page, and we are evaluating the benefits and risks of using other online platforms for reaching suffering food addicts. We have also been exploring and prioritizing respectful outreach to underrepresented communities.

Meanwhile, we encourage the most simple and most effective daily PI work of praying for opportunities to help suffering food addicts and acting on the opportunities our Higher Power provides: sharing our stories, carrying trifolds with us and offering one to someone with our personal phone number on it; posting trifolds or flyers at local businesses, telling our stories and handing Health Care brochures to nurses, medical assistants, therapists, physicians, dentists, hygienists, etc. or offering the link to the health care provider webpage.

Media Outreach (Mndy C.)

MediaWatch sent out 104 contacts with 3 responses.
Edits to Mediawatch letters and the Media Outreach sections of the FA website (making language clearer and more concise) were completed and posted to the web.
Responded to several media organizations asking for FA members who would be willing to be interviewed for articles or podcasts dealing with food addiction and body image.

PI Tools/Operations (Jim D.)

Updated the statistics on the Health Fairs FA Banner to reflect accurate information from the Healthcare Brochure
A small sub-committee is exploring the possibility of using YouTube as a platform to reach the still suffering food addict.

Digital Outreach Subcommittee (Margaret L.)

Completed or ongoing work:
- Continuing to update & improve our Google Ads campaigns, click-through-rate, conversions, & bidding strategies to align with our website pages.
- Continuing to track & tune content on our website, including new topic-based pages focusing on diabetes, overeating, bariatric surgery, bulimia, etc.
- Creating a “use of cookies” statement on the website per Google’s request.
Website Analytics –
- Last 12 months
  - Website:
    - Total users are up 174% 350K
    - Sessions are up 182% to 738K
    - Impressions (public viewing our banner) up 431% to 2.31M *

- - - - Organic Search *
        
        Clicks up 231% to 151K
        
        Sessions up by 195% to 290K
        
        Referral sessions (links from outside websites) up 144% to 20K
- Last 6 months
  - Website:
    - Total users are up 7.6% to 183
    - Sessions are up by 6.8% to 384K
    - Impressions (public viewing our banner) up 31% (includes G. Ads)
      - Organic Search *
        
        Clicks are up by 10.5% to 79K
        
        Sessions up by 9.6% to 150 K
        
        Referral sessions (links from outside websites) up 11% to 11K
Google Ads Results (Paid Search)
- Last 12 months
  - - Clicks up 53% (209K)
    - Impressions up 475% (3.26M)
    - Conversions (when someone does something we want them to do on the site) are up 312% to 1.13M
- Last 6 months
  - - Clicks down 43% (147K)
    - Impressions up 31% (1.3M) *includes Google Ads
    - Conversions (when someone does something we want them to do on the site) are up 23% to 629K
Social Media & Demographics
- - We evaluated several Social Media platforms, considering our Traditions, ease of use, and effectiveness at reaching a broader audience, including helping teens more easily reach FA Podcasts.
  - Demographics on our site are getting younger. Now women 25-34 age group (20%) are the most frequent visitors to our website (Google Ads data for last 12 months as of April 23, 2023), followed closely by women in the age group 34-44, and women in age group 18-24.

FA Facebook Page Project (Erica R.)

Continued exploratory work on official FA Facebook page as a forum for reaching prospective members, and not for internal FA communication
Continued to create and post 2 entries per week to the FA Facebook page that adhere to FA’s Twelve Traditions
Developing structure, strategy, and analytical reporting for growing and evaluating outreach effectiveness.

Professional Outreach (Fredrika N.)

The Health Care Video has been reviewed with a goal of aligning it with needs of healthcare practitioners. With more opportunities to use the slide show as we emerge from COVID restrictions, the committee is incorporating feedback from presenters and health care providers to edit the slides to meet different time allotments.
Feedback from a doctor in Maryland said that doctors would likely prefer the slides over the video as it gets to the point and eliminates the fluff.
It is now being suggested that, when possible and appropriate, someone bring a laptop to the booth/table and run either/or the Healthcare Professional video or the Healthcare Professional slides on a loop.

Community Accountability (Elaine L.)

Consulted with Bay Area meetings about intentionality in devoting concrete resources to outreach efforts in historically underserved areas, by researching media outlets and earning trust in marginalized communities.
Consulted with PI chair on expanding outreach to community gathering places, places of worship, treatment centers, etc.

PI Committee 2023 Bi-Monthly Phone Conference Calls (1:30pm-3:00pm U.S. Eastern Time) were held January 22, March 26, and May 21, with 2 in-person meeting at the FA Business Convention, where Maggie M. was introduced as incoming PI Committee Chair.

Service Group Support Committee (SGSC), (Shirley H., Chair)

Description of Committee

The SGSC supports the maintenance and development of Local Service Groups (LSGs), Chapters and Intergroups. It also facilitates global communication among all the service groups and the WSI board. All efforts support the overarching principle of supporting FA recovery practices, strengthening existing recovery and helping others learn that recovery from food addiction exists.

Chair Report (Shirley H.)

In 2021, the FA World Service Conference voted to include video conference and phone meetings as recognized and supported FA meetings. This created a fundamental change in the organization, which has given the SGSC an opportunity to review how Local Service Groups, Chapters and Intergroups organize themselves and evolve to meet new challenges. Virtual and phone meetings are required to designate a particular city location to register, even though their reach may be much broader, including international.

Chapters and Intergroups are accessible virtually so that FA members from around the world committed to a meeting affiliated with a Chapter or Intergroup are able to attend monthly meetings and participate in service.

The way that Local Service Groups (LSGs) are organized and structured is emerging and the term “local” has taken on a new meaning. Today’s LSGs can comprise several provinces or states. They can be an entire island, a small country, or a portion of a state. The term local now represents a broader range in defining the reach and influence of these groups.

The SGSC Core committee meets bi-monthly to address these challenges, respond to inquiries from the fellowship and provide guidance and support to the SGSC subcommittees.

These meetings also facilitate communication between service groups and the World Service Board.

The SGSC also hosts quarterly Virtual Global meetings where service groups learn about resources, exchange information, share ideas, discuss ways to encourage fellows to come together to do service and discuss challenges. At the request of the fellowship the SGSC offered its first interpreted Virtual Global meeting in January 2023. This was possible thanks to the help and support of FA Spanish speaking members and the miracles of technology.

In April 2023 with the continued help and additional support of bilingual FA members the meeting offered interpretation in Spanish and French. It is our hope that additional languages will be added so the Virtual Global meeting is accessible to everyone in our fellowship and that service groups will continue to expand and develop around the world.

Education and Information (E&I) Subcommittee

The E&I subcommittee was suspended in the spring of 2022
The SGSC Core committee assumed responsibility for planning and facilitating the education and information presentations for the Global SGSC meetings and the Forum Breakout Session: LSG’s, Let’s Get Together!

Forum Planning (Georgia W., Chair)

Subcommittee members were responsible for planning and organizing the 2023 Forum, Back Together, Better Than Ever!
- The Forum offers an opening session and six breakout sessions on a variety of topics. The Forum Highlights will be posted on the FA website on the SGSC page.

Guidelines Subcommittee (Suzanne B., Chair)

The Chapter Guidelines, drafted by an ad hoc committee, were approved by the World Service Board (WSB) and are posted on the FA website on the SGSC page. The guidelines outline best practices for areas thinking about starting a chapter. The guidelines also include an inventory checklist for an existing chapter to review best practices, bylaws requirements and evaluate their effectiveness in meeting the purpose of a chapter.
An ad hoc committee was convened to review and update the Local Service Group (LSG) Guidelines and Recommendations. The updated LSG Guidelines and Recommendations were approved by the WSB and are posted on the FA website on the SGSC page.The guidelines are intended to answer frequently asked questions and explain the structure, purpose and goals of an LSG.
An ad hoc committee was convened to complete the first annual review of the Intergroup Guidelines. The updated Intergroup Guidelines were approved by the World Service Board and were posted on the FA website on the SGSC page. The guidelines outline the essentials for establishing a new intergroup and outline the steps for starting an intergroup.The guidelines also include an inventory checklist for existing intergroups to review best practices, bylaws requirements and evaluate their effectiveness in meeting the purpose of an intergroup.

Traditions Review Committee (Cheryl W., Chair)

Description of Committee

The Tradition Review Committee’s mandate is to consider how the Twelve Traditions guide us on various issues raised by FA members or groups. Inquiries are submitted to traditions@foodaddicts.org. The committee meets to discuss these issues every other month, then shares their thoughts with the inquirer and with the fellowship (when appropriate) through various WSI reports and the TRC Index. The TRC is not a governing or policing body, nor does it get involved in resolving the issue; rather, it enables the person(s) to deal with the situation or the other person(s) involved.

Chair Report (Cheryl W.)

From July, 2022-June, 2023, the TRC received 19 inquiries at traditions@foodaddicts.org. Of those, 8 inquiries were responded to by the Chair, and 9 were discussed and responded to by the full TRC as follows. Two inquiries were referred to others committees. In addition, the TRC posted a new resource, How the Traditions Impact My Meetings for Document 8 on the FA website which illustrates the Traditions perspective on the most commonly asked questions by FA members.

Questions about any of these inquiries may be directed to traditions@foodaddicts.org.

Responded by Chair:

Seeking volunteers for Diabetes Research
Promotion vs Attraction
Donating literature from closed meetings to new in-person meetings
Recording Spanish speaking meetings
Posting meeting info in church bulletin
Group email account
Supporting a struggling meeting
In-person meeting goes virtual during inclement weather

Referred to another FA Committee:

FA business cards (sent to PI)
Group response to format (referred to MESA)

Discussed and responded to by the Traditions Review Committee (detailed inquiries and responses below):

Concerns regarding Compassionate Food Addicts in Recovery
Exclusion of in-person meetings on area tri-folds
LSG and Videoconference accounts
Marketing Herb K Workshops at FA meetings
Donation of funds for Equity/Inclusion training
GoFundMe used by local service groups for Public Information activity
Donation request at the end of FA Podcast
WAI PayPal Giving Fund
Specific fundraising activities for PI activities

Inquiries and Responses:

1. Concerns regarding Compassionate Food Addicts in Recovery

Does Compassionatefoodaddictsinrecovery.com conflict with traditions?

TRC Response:

Please note that language taken directly from the compassionatefoodaddictsinrecovery.com website is enclosed in quotation marks.

The members of the WSI Traditions Review Committee appreciate all of the thoughtful work that was put into creating this website. As we reviewed the website, we found several items concerning. We also believe using this website would cause a lot of confusion for the newcomer.

Tradition One: Our common welfare should come first; personal recovery depends on FA unity.

“When we say compassionate, what we mean is having an open mind about food plans, food times, number of meals, medications, religious traditions and other lifestyle needs that have made traditional sponsorship impossible.”

The creation of a separate website - especially one with a separate name - combined with the statement quoted above shreds unity. The implication that FA members are not compassionate adds to the divisiveness and disunity. The website refers to a “traditional sponsorship” style that is undefined. The automatic assumption is that if I want a sponsor who is compassionate, I need to look at this website and be wary of any other sponsor who may say they are “traditional” because they will lack compassion. Using such a strong statement and even just stating some sponsors are compassionate and traditional sponsors are not, divides us. The Twelve and Twelve tells us that “Without unity, the heart of A.A. would cease to beat. (“Tradition One”. Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions. Alcoholics Anonymous World Service Inc. 2000. P. 129.)

Tradition Two: For our group purpose, there is but one ultimate authority - a loving God as He may express Himself in our group conscience. Our leaders are but trusted servants; they do not govern.

In multiple places on the compassionatefoodaddictsinrecovery.com website, the names of specific people are used distinctively and placed above others. To a newcomer, this indicates a leader. We have no experts. We have no leaders.

Tradition Seven: Every FA group ought to be self-supporting, declining outside contributions.

There is a place on this website to accept donations, which appears to go to a personal account. No explanation is given as to the uses of the funds collected. This is concerning.

Tradition Twelve: Anonymity is the spiritual foundation of all our Traditions, ever placing principles before personalities.

Compassion is a personality trait. This Tradition tells us to focus on the principles of recovery, not personalities. The multiple references to specific people also conflicts with the principle of Anonymity.

Recommendations:

Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous has grown significantly since its inception in 1998. With the advent of Covid-19, the past two and a half years has brought forth several major changes related to bylaws, policies, procedures and general culture. It is important now, more than ever, that FA meeting groups and members remain focused on unity/Tradition One.

As such, the Traditions Review Committee suggests that the creator(s) of this new website work within the existing structures of FA, rather than creating a new and external one. Joining an Intergroup and/or WSI committee, to propose and discuss new ways of thinking, guarantees a reliance on group conscience. It also enhances awareness for all FA members. The end result is a strengthened and more unified organization. The TRC also recommends that any reference to FA on the Compassionate Food Addicts in Recovery website needs to be removed to eliminate any confusion. Compassionate Food Addicts in Recovery is not in FA bylaws and, therefore, is not a part of FA.

The promotion of Compassionate Food Addicts in Recovery at FA meetings, including during shares or entering a link in the chat during videoconference meetings is also seen as a conflict with Tradition One.

2. Exclusion of in-person meetings on area tri-folds

A new in-person meeting registered with WSI and on the FA website discovered that other in-person meetings existing in the local area are not updating their tri-folds to include the new meeting’s information. When the inquirer questioned the other meeting rep, they were told, “We aren’t going to add a meeting we aren’t suggesting someone go to.”

TRC Response:

The TRC feels this type of discrimination when it comes to listing meetings on trifolds conflicts with Tradition 1 (Our common welfare comes first; personal recovery depends on FA unity). Unity is one of our most important principles and this practice is divisive. TRC suggests that geographic location would be a thoughtful and legitimate criterion for listing. If there are too many meetings in an area to fit on a trifold, then a variety of days, times, and locations should be represented.

In addition, this tri-fold issue is not in alignment with Tradition 4. When one meeting excludes another meeting, that decision clearly violates the spirit of “affecting other groups or FA as a whole”. In the past, members of meetings have felt marginalized because of this kind of exclusion. This idea of strong vs weak meetings challenges the unity of FA and growth of the fellowship.

3. LSG and Videoconference accounts

In December 2021, the WSB sent an email to the fellowship encouraging each meeting to purchase its own meeting videoconference accounts based on the 7th Tradition. The SGSC asked the TRC if it was necessary for Local Service Groups to purchase their own videoconference account or if they could use the account of affiliated meetings.

TRC Response:

The Traditions Review Committee considered whether Local Service Groups need to provide their own videoconference account or use the account of affiliated meetings. Since many LSG do not have a treasury, it is simpler for some other entity to fund their videoconference meetings. Meetings donate extra funds from 7th Tradition collection to Intergroup and WSI. Therefore, the Traditions Review Committee suggests that LSG ask for funds or access for a videoconference account from the intergroup of their region or the SGSC.

The TRC does not see any tradition conflicts with an LSG using the account of an affiliated meeting. However, if an LSG has a treasury, some TRC members felt the LSG should have its own account, so as not to have one meeting's voice (or contribution) be recognized more than another.

4. Marketing Herb K Workshops at FA meetings

An FA fellow submitted several questions to the Bylaws Committee, one of which was forwarded to the TRC. The question is whether announcement and marketing of Herb K Big Book Study meetings can be made at FA meetings.. For context, Herb K is a for-profit (http://herbk.com/bigbook2022) business that offers books, workshops, CD’s and retreats primarily to alcoholics.

TRC Response:

The TRC reviewed this inquiry and were clear that even though this workshop uses AA’s 12 steps in its curriculum, there are Traditions-related concerns regarding this outside enterprise and the way it is being marketed to FA members. The issue of promoting outside enterprises has come up many times in the past and the TRC will take this opportunity to reiterate reasons why promoting outside enterprises conflicts with the vital principles of FA.

Tradition 6 states that an FA group ought never endorse or lend the FA name to any related facility or outside enterprise. To do so is confusing to the newcomer and other FA group members. Each 12-step program is a separate enterprise and thus cross-promotion is not in line with Tradition 6. The issue is not the content of the workshop in question, it is that FA group members are linking FA with this outside enterprise because they are learning about the workshop while attending an FA meeting.

The TRC unanimously concurred that non-FA 12-Step studies should not be announced at the meeting level for the reasons cited above. See also the May 2020 response to a similar issue received by the TRC: Twelve Step “Emotional Sobriety” workshop using FA Meeting phone lists to market to FA members by typing Emotional Sobriety into the search field at https://www.foodaddicts.org/trc-index-search.

5. Donation of funds for Equity/Inclusion training

An anonymous fellow donated $7,000 to an organization for FA WSB/Committee members to continue Equity/Inclusion training.

TRC Response:

Even though the TRC appreciates the generosity of the individual who offered to donate funds for equity/inclusion training, we believe this action is not in line with the 7^th Tradition. The 7^th Tradition states “Every FA group ought to be fully self-supporting, declining outside contributions.” We (FA) support ourselves through our own voluntary contributions. Even though an FA member is making the donation, it is being made to an outside enterprise. In essence, FA WSI Inc. would be accepting services that FA WSI did not pay for.

In summary, FA-WSI does not accept any outside contributions whether the contribution be monetary or services.

6. GoFundMe used by local service groups for PI

A Local Service Group would like to use GoFundMe to fund Local Service Group PI activities.

TRC Response:

The TRC had several concerns with the idea of using GoFundMe as a funding source for a Local Service Group. Since Local Service Groups are affiliated with a group of meetings, the meetings provide the funds for LSG activities. The affiliation with a meeting allows for a group conscience as well as accountability of use of funds. It is our understanding that GoFundMe has a transaction fee for each donation. Free online transaction apps are a better option for collecting 7th Tradition funds. In addition, the solicitation of funds from FA members outside of a meeting is not FA protocol. Finally, the TRC has concerns of anonymity if people do not select the anonymous donor checkbox.

According to the Local Service Group Guidelines, “an LSG operates like meetings and only keeps enough money for expenses related to upcoming events, room rentals, or video/teleconferencing fees. All Additional monies should follow the recommended donation split between the LSG’s intergroup and World Service Inc. (WSI)”. Local Service Groups should practice corporate poverty, similar to other FA groups.

7. Donation request at the end of FA Podcast

Could there be a comment at the end of an FA podcast requesting the listener donate to FA?

TRC Response:

The TRC felt that asking for a donation at the end of an FA Podcast was not in the spirit of Tradition 7, which states “every FA group ought to be fully self-supporting, declining outside contributions”. Since our podcasts are available to the public, such a donation would be considered an outside contribution.

8. WAI PayPal Giving Fund

Is the WAI PayPal Giving Fund within bounds of Traditions?

TRC Response:

The TRC reviewed the WAI PayPal Giving Fund document and found it to be within the bounds of Tradition 7. However, there was some concern that WAI gets a report that lists all the names of the donors, which would be a break of anonymity. It was noticed that there is a check off where a donor can say “Share my name with the charity.” It is automatically on and the donor needs to actively opt out. Perhaps the page could be set up with that un-checked so it is an opt-in choice? The other suggestion is to add to the paragraph descriptor a direction to donors to be sure that it is unchecked to preserve their anonymity, such as “To preserve anonymity, we suggest donors uncheck the option to share their name with WAI”. The Treasurer should also make sure to omit the names of the donors in the monthly report.

9. Specific fundraising activities for PI activities

Can FA fundraising activity be reserved for PI activities in specific areas?

TRC Response:

Fundraising is in direct conflict with the Traditions. It takes the group’s attention, time and resources away from the focus on our primary purpose, the newcomer (Tradition 5). Fundraising has the potential to disrupt unity as members may disagree about use of funds (Tradition 1). Members unhappy about the fundraising project may express their displeasure by withholding money from the meeting “basket”. Fundraising activity interferes with the spiritual focus of the program, that our Higher Power will provide what we need for our fellowship. In 12 Steps and 12 Traditions it is clear that we “can’t mix AA and money. We shall have to separate the material from the spiritual” (Page 161).

The 7th Tradition states that meetings are self supporting, Fundraising is in conflict with this principle. The meeting’s 7th Tradition supplies funds for all meeting activities, including Public Information. If additional funds are needed, the meeting should contact the intergroup.

Traditions eForum Subcommittee (Joan J., Subcommittee Chair)

On June 25 and 26, 2022 we hosted a Tradition Four eForum. Each session was attended by about 40 people. The Saturday session went smoothly and was interesting and informative. On Sunday we had some glitches with panelists attending but TRC members stepped up to make the eForum successful.

Tradition 5 eForum was held on January 14, 2023. It was decided to only have one session since the fellowship has many different eForums available to them. It was a successful event. Tradition 6 was planned for March 25, 2023 but due to lack of people available as panelists, the difficulty of the topic, and many people gearing up for the FA Business convention, it was decided that we would cancel the Tradition 6 eForum.

The plan is to go ahead with Tradition 7 next and then do a different type of format for Traditions 6, 8 and 9 combined since they might be more challenging to find people with personal experience about those traditions. Tradition 7 is in the planning stages for July 30, 2023 at 1:30 pm ET.

Twelfth Step Committee (Regina M., Chair)

Description of Committee

During this last year, the Twelfth Step Committee carried out its mission: to help members of the fellowship grow in recovery through service at meetings, intergroups, chapters and World Service; to develop resources for members and offer support to those members isolated due to language barriers and physical limitations.

Chair Report (Regina M.)

MESA posted new MEQ’s specific to phone, video and in person meetings.
TOR has become a DEI resource for the fellowship.
Newcomer Support and Assistance (NSA) Committee has a webpage and developed a video “Why we do what we do!”
SOP redesigned the Support Opportunities portal to improve the member experience on Smartphones.

Meeting Effectiveness Support and Assistance (MESA) (Franny M., Chair)

MESA posted new Meeting Effectiveness Questions specific to video, phone and in person meetings.
MESA redesigned the webpage.
MESA continued monthly resource calls.
MESA updated the Business Meeting Format.

The Only Requirement Committee (TOR) (Yolanda P., Chair)

TOR has become a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion resource to the fellowship as we are asked to provide feedback on questions and ideas.
TOR committee continues to meet regarding future projects.
TOR conducted an eForum in December 2022.

Newcomer Support and Assistance (NSA) (Louis C., Chair)

NSA designed a webpage full of resources, for newcomers and fellows that want to help newcomers
NSA developed a video now on the webpage that speaks directly to the newcomer on why we do what we do in FA.

Service Opportunities Project Committee (SOP) (Brande G., Chair)

SOP redesigned the portal to make the user experience more accessible from Smartphones and other devices.
SOP developed a QR code for easy access to the portal.

Closing Remarks, WSB Chair Lisa S.

Dear Fellows,

Well, we’ve come to the end of the Business Convention and I have some closing thoughts before we head our separate ways. First, I want to thank each and every one of you for being here. Thank you for your attention and thoughtfulness as we debated the motions, for participating in the committee meetings and most importantly for your support of each other.

Being with five hundred food addicts is wonderful yet overwhelming in a normal year, this is not a normal year as we adapt to living in this new pandemic world. To all of you, who saw a fellow in need and you said hello, asked them to join your table at a meal, or just extended a smile and a hug. I see you and I thank you!

For those who don’t know me, here’s a short version of my story. I came into the program in Washington, DC at 30 years old, 207 lbs, miserable and full of fear, doubt and insecurity, riddled with shame and using perfectionism and people pleasing to make up for all that was wrong with me. Coming into the program in 1996, first to 90 day OA and then FA has taught me that what was wrong with me - wasn’t a lack of willpower, discipline or determination but it was food addiction. That knowledge opened a door that changed my life and since that day nearly 27 years ago I have truly received blessings beyond my imagination.

A few months ago, I attended a work conference and during the meeting - one of the presenters shared that the work that he does was rooted in Sacred Hospitality. His words hit me like a ton of bricks - I felt them deep within my soul. Sacred Hospitality. Sacred Hospitality. I couldn’t stop thinking about it.

I spent the rest of the conference and many days after it ended in deep reflection about Sacred Hospitality and what it means for me personally. I came to a strong conviction that I wanted to live my life with that intention of offering Sacred Hospitality. In many ways, I was already doing that, because isn’t that what we offer each other in Twelve Step recovery.

Of course, I had to check the definitions:

Sacred - connected with God/Higher Power

Hospitality - the friendly and generous reception of guests, visitors or strangers

I firmly believe that it is Sacred Hospitality that we offer each other as fellows. It’s the hello that we get when we walk into that meeting, the two arm hugs, the phone calls, the making food for those who are ill or having surgery, it’s rides to meetings, and being there when times are wonderful and hard. When that still suffering addict walks through the door, turns on their camera on Zoom, or dials in by phone, we meet them with Sacred Hospitality. Sacred Hospitality is the Twelfth Step in action.

As I continued to reflect on all the ways that we exhibit Sacred Hospitality in FA, I also began to see all the ways that some actions are sending a different message, not one of hospitality but one that can lead fellows to feel confused, judged and doubting FA.

It is not sacred hospitality to tell a fellow or newcomer:

That they don’t need to follow their doctor’s advice regarding medication
That seeking outside mental health support is not recovery behavior
That they can only speak with certain group of people

It is not sacred hospitality to tell a fellow or newcomer:

That they can only attend certain approved meetings
That they should become part of a certain group of people because they are doing recovery the right way, and what others are doing is wrong.
That breaks in abstinence involve things other than eating flour, sugar, quantities or individual binge foods.

You might say that mentioning these things is also not practicing Sacred Hospitality. That I’m being critical and judgemental. Tradition Four clearly states that every group is autonomous except in matters affecting other groups or FA as a whole. I mentioned these examples not to shame but to speak the truth that I have heard from fellows about the impact these kinds of actions have on them and FA as a whole. Just because something feels so right to you doesn’t mean it’s best for the whole - we must always think of the whole, not just the parts.

We have been through alot of change in the past three years and I know that change is hard and scary. I know many people have ideas on how to fix FA, and yes, there are many areas for us to grow in this fast changing world. We cannot remain stagnant but I trust that we can adapt and still stand firmly rooted on the foundation of FA that has been built one day at a time for decades. That trust comes from my unyielding faith that as long as we lean on our Higher Power and never lose sight of the Twelve Steps, Twelve Traditions and our primary purpose, we can be the FA that this world full of people suffering from food addiction needs.

At the Forum on Friday, I shared that I hope you leave this weekend, feeling inspired, grateful, and ready to be of service. I will add that I hope you will join me in deep reflection on what Sacred Hospitality means not only to you personally in your recovery journey but to FA as a whole. It is my honor to serve as Chair for one more year and I’m blessed to be one among many as WE work together to extend a helping hand to those seeking relief from food addiction.

Thank you for being here to do the important work of FA. I wish you smooth and easy travels home, please take gentle care of yourselves over the next few days. The 2023 Business Convention is officially closed.

Goodbye and take care.

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World Service Business Convention Report - 2023

Table of Contents

A LETTER FROM THE WSB CHAIR

OUR PRIMARY PURPOSE

OPENING REMARKS, WSB VICE CHAIR, (Jen N.)

TREASURER’S REPORT, (Mac M.)

BYLAWS COMMITTEE REPORT, (Margaret O., Chair)

MOTIONS

2023-2024 FA World Service Board

Highlights from Chapters and Intergroups

HIGHLIGHTS FROM WSI COMMITTEES

connection Committee (Joanna A., Chair)

Convention Planning Committee (Cayce K., Chair)

Literature Committee (Karen L.B., Chair)

Office Committee (Stacy T., Chair)

Public Information Committee (Lisa B., Chair)

Traditions Review Committee (Cheryl W., Chair)

Twelfth Step Committee (Regina M., Chair)

Closing Remarks, WSB Chair Lisa S.