1. Service System Project The Group Support Unit

2. Project Background
Workshop feedback for many years reports common challenges
 apathy, duplication of efforts, poor communication…
Project approved in 2008 & 2010
A Vision for NA Service adopted in 2010

4. Project Background Resolutions passed in 2012
Field testing through July 2013
Transition plan will be presented in 2014

5. Elements of an Effective System

6. Foundational Principles
Purpose-Driven
Group-Focused
Defined by Geographic Boundaries
Collaborative
Flexible

7. Overview of Local Services as described in the Proposals
GSUs and LSUs replace ASCs
GSUs devoted to group support
LSUs devoted to service delivery

8. What happens at the GSU Welcome and outreach to new groups and members
Informal information sharing – group to group
Orientation and introduction to service
Open attendance
Neighborhood based
Usually multiple GSUs for one LSU

9. GSU Options

10. Healthy GSU Discussions
Share our Experience, Strength, and Hope
Listen to one another and respect each other’s ideas
Everyone is welcome to attend and everyone can participate
Take turns: One person speaks at one time, and no one person dominates
Try to stay focused on the issue at hand and avoid repetition
Remember – Honesty, Trust, and Goodwill are the foundation of service

11. GSU Tools Available GSU Basics GSU Agenda and Facilitation Tips
Sample GSU Agenda
Group Report Form
GSU Report Form
Basic Facilitation Guide and CBDM Basics may also help

12. Resources & Information
Facilitation Tools
GSU Basics
LSU Basics

13. Q & A

14. Simulated GSU Meeting

15. GSU Exercise Name Your GSU
Review GSU Agenda & Facilitation Tips from the tools packet
Brainstorm group issues to discuss
Prioritize top one or two issues
Have a GSU discussion!

16. In your discussions, consider:
Does anyone else have experience with this topic?
What does our literature say? (The Group Booklet, Treasurer’s Handbook, Tradition and Concept essays etc.)
Where can we get more information about the topic? (Possibilities include the LSU/ASC, regional body, state/nation/province body, and NA World Services.)

17. Example
Issue: A local member is disruptive in the meetings she/he attends
Solution – As a GSU and/or in home groups, read and discuss the service pamphlet, Disruptive and Violent Behavior.

18. Service System Webpage
More information is available at
Or us at