A Global Fellowship for Permanent Recovery

Founded in 1990, the How It Works Group offers structured daily Big Book meetings and a global community for those seeking a rigorous path to sobriety.

The Members of the How It Works Group Bid You Welcome

People struggling with addictions not only harm themselves—they invariably hurt their families, friends, and others. In other words, not only the alcoholic suffers from alcoholism.

As members of the How It Works Group, we recognize that we have no monopoly on the treatment of alcoholism.  We have, however, found a solution as provided in the book Alcoholics Anonymous, commonly referred to as “The Big Book.” It is there that one may find precise answers to the question, “What do I have to do?” in order to recover. It is there that one may find a way out upon which we can absolutely agree.

 We invite all who suffer from alcoholism to join us.

Daily Meetings

Morning, afternoon, and evening—join us via Zoom or phone. With global access and a dedicated community, a meeting is never far away, wherever you are in the world.

No registration required.
Anonymity respected.

It is easy to let up on the spiritual program of action and rest on our laurels. We are headed for trouble if we do, for alcohol is a subtle foe.
— Page 85

HIW Resources

  • ABOUT

    Our legacy, our mission, and the global fellowship that sustains us.

  • DAILY READINGS

    Daily reflections focused on the mechanics of psychic change.

  • STEP SHEETS

    A structured roadmap to the 12 Steps. Precision in practice.

  • BOOK STUDY

    Deep-dive analysis of the Big Book. Clarity through collective study.

  • DAILY MEDITATION

    Cultivating the discipline of pause. Quiet the mind, center the spirit.

  • PLAYING DEAD

    The core philosophy: Exploring the radical deflation of ego.

  • CAKE DAY

    Commemorating milestones of transformation within our global group.

  • STARTING A GROUP

    Carry the message further. Resources and guidance for establishing a new HIW fellowship.

  • 7TH TRADITION

    Practicing the principle of self-support to maintain our independence and global reach.

  • MOBILE APP

    Your recovery companion for a global lifestyle. Access meetings, readings, and fellowship anywhere in the world.

Lack of power, that was our dilemma. We had to find a power by which we could live, and it had to be a Power greater than ourselves.
— Page 45

Everything You Need.
Always With You.

The How It Works Group mobile app puts your daily readings, step sheets, meditation audio, meeting access, and more, directly to your device—available for iPhone and Android.

Selfishness—self-centeredness! That, we think, is the root of our troubles.
— Page 62

Reach Out

You don’t have to have it all figured out to reach us. Whether you have a question, need direction, or just want to connect—we’re here, and your anonymity is always respected.