Welcome to Greater New York Group of CA

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Whether you’re walking into your first meeting or your fiftieth, it helps to know how things work. Cocaine Anonymous is a fellowship of people who share one common goal: freedom from cocaine and all other mind-altering substances. We are not affiliated with or overseen by any other 12-Step fellowship.

Our design is simple, spiritual, and grounded in respect. What follows are some of the shared customs and boundaries that help keep our meetings safe, focused, and useful for everyone—especially those just beginning their recovery journey.

 

How We Introduce Ourselves

When it’s our turn to share, we usually introduce ourselves by first name, the nature of our addiction, and our recovery date.

 

 

“Hi, I’m Jordan. I’m an addict, and my clean date is March 3rd, 2021.”

 

You can identify in whatever way feels honest to you—some say addict, cocaine addict, alcoholic, or addict in recovery. It’s your choice. No one here labels you. If you’re new and not sure what to say, simply saying “pass” is always acceptable. Listening is often the first act of courage in recovery.

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What We Don’t Do

 

Cross-Talk

Cross-talk means interrupting, commenting on someone else’s share, giving advice, or turning a meeting into a dialogue. Cocaine Anonymous meetings are not therapy sessions—they are spiritual spaces for shared experience. We speak only from our own story and listen without judgment or interruption. If feedback is invited, as in a workshop or designated discussion meeting, it will be made clear in the format. Otherwise, we keep our focus on honesty, humility, and respect.

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Confidentiality Is a Spiritual Responsibility

What’s said here stays here. Always. We don’t gossip, repeat, or share anyone else’s story outside the room. Anonymity is more than a rule—it’s an act of love. We protect each other’s privacy because recovery requires safety. When we keep confidences, we practice one of the highest forms of service: trust.

 

No Predatory Behavior

Recovery spaces must be safe for everyone. That means no stalking, grooming, hitting on newcomers, or using meetings as a dating pool. Flirting, coercion, or manipulative behavior—especially from members with time toward those who are new—will not be tolerated. Any member who makes others feel unsafe, threatened, or objectified may be asked to leave the meeting. If you feel unsafe or unsure about someone’s behavior, please speak with a trusted servant, the meeting chair, or the Group Steering Committee. Your experience matters, and your safety comes first.

 

Disruptive Behavior

Meetings are sacred spaces. If someone becomes aggressive, intoxicated, or repeatedly disruptive, trusted servants may, by group conscience, ask that person to step outside or leave. Recovery is open to everyone—but meetings must remain functional, focused, and safe for those seeking help.

 

The Seventh Tradition: How We Support Ourselves

Cocaine Anonymous is entirely self-supporting. We are not a public charity and we do not accept outside contributions. Everything—from rent and coffee to literature, chips, and insurance—is paid for by us. Our suggested donation is $5 or more. That amount reflects the real cost of keeping meetings accessible and sustainable. If you’re new or in your first six months of recovery, you are our guest. Your presence is your contribution. When you’re ready, we invite you to give—not because you owe, but because you belong. Giving is part of recovery. It’s how we take ownership of the fellowship that helped save our lives. We don’t pass the basket because we’re asking for money. We do it to practice humility, gratitude, and responsibility. If you can give, please do. If you can’t today, just keep coming back. The day will come when you’ll have the chance to give freely what was freely given to you.

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Suggestions for New Members

These are suggestions, not rules. But they have worked for many of us and continue to help countless members find lasting recovery.

1. 90 meetings in 90 days – Build a rhythm. Recovery works best through consistency and community.
2. Find a sponsor – Someone who has worked the Twelve Steps and is willing to guide you.
3. Choose a home group – Belong somewhere. Show up. Take part.
4. Get involved – Make coffee, set up chairs, greet newcomers. Service keeps us connected and grounded.

 

None of this is mandatory—but for many of us, these simple actions were the start of a life we never thought possible.

 

Closing Thought

Cocaine Anonymous is not about perfection—it’s about progress.
We come here broken, but we stay because we find purpose.
We stay because we learn that honesty heals, unity strengthens, and service saves lives.

Welcome home.

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• The Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions of Cocaine Anonymous © Cocaine Anonymous World Services, Inc. (CAWS). Used or adapted with permission.

• Portions of The Twelve Concepts for World Service © Alcoholics Anonymous World Services, Inc. (AAWS). Used with permission.

• Cocaine Anonymous and the C.A. logo are registered trademarks of Cocaine Anonymous World Services, Inc.

• This document is an educational adaptation by the Cocaine Anonymous 5 Boroughs Group and is not officially endorsed by CAWS.