What is a Sponsor?
When we enter the 12-Step program of recovery, we are without guidance. We may be traumatized, grief-stricken, and humiliated. We are almost certainly in a crisis.
We find support in this community; there are people who have been through similar situations. They may be new to the program or have many years of sobriety. But they are our support network.
A sponsor is a special one of these contacts. They have a solid knowledge of the program, the 12-Step process and sobriety. They will be our guide through the process of recovery. They are volunteers, as is everyone in program, and have chosen to work their recovery through service to others.
By becoming a sponsor and working with sponsees, many people find strength in their recovery, and learn more about their own struggles through supporting others in theirs.
Sponsors are not perfect; they are in recovery, too. Sometimes a sponsee gains hope by knowing the imperfections of their sponsor. A sponsor is typically working the steps with their own sponsor. They often have a broad network of experience, support, guidance, and insight to offer the sponsee.
What does a Sponsor do?
A sponsor counsels and guides their sponsees through the 12-step program.
They offer guidance in understanding the intent of the steps, as well as procedures for working through them. They ask the right questions when there is avoidance, or confusion. They help clarify what is meant by the steps and the literature and may provide materials to support the process. They listen, and express empathy for those who are still suffering. Most importantly, they counsel the sponsees on what NOT to do, to prevent further harm.
Am I qualified to be a Sponsor?
To be a sponsor, it’s key to have a solid working knowledge of the Steps. You must be sober from your bottom lines for a substantial time, typically six months to a year. You should have a sponsor and have been in program long enough to have a good understanding of the SLAA program outlined in the 12 Steps. Most importantly, you must have empathy for those who still suffer.
For more details on sponsorship, including guidelines, pitfalls, and experiences, please refer to the Sponsorship pamphlet available from your local meeting, our website, or the SLAA Fellowship-Wide Services site. It’s also helpful to talk with members who are experienced at sponsorship.