ClickCease
Menu Close

*Photo Courtesy of Recover’s Clinical Co-Founder, Bill Snyder. Copyright 2023

recover from addiction.
live your purpose

Who Are the Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) Founders?

People following the 12-step approach to addiction treatment created by the two AA founders

Have you ever thought about the origins of the 12-step approach to addiction treatment? It all started with the founders of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). At Recover Colorado, a reliable addiction treatment center in Westminster, we value honoring those who initiated this global movement.

If you’re looking for a comprehensive 12-step program near Denver, Colorado, our team is ready to assist you on your recovery path with a personalized, empathetic approach that fits your needs. Contact our compassionate team online or call 888.695.5407 today to learn more.

What to Know About Alcoholics Anonymous

Alcoholics Anonymous is a worldwide fellowship designed to help individuals who struggle with alcohol addiction. Founded in 1935, AA has since helped millions of people achieve and maintain sobriety through its renowned 12-step program. The organization’s strength lies in its peer support model, where participants draw strength from each other’s experiences.

Who Are the AA Founders?

The co-founders of Alcoholics Anonymous, Dr. Bob Smith and Bill Wilson, played pivotal roles in the establishment of this renowned organization. Both individuals, having battled alcohol addiction firsthand, shared a deep commitment to helping others overcome similar struggles.

Bill Wilson, affectionately known as Bill W., hailed from New York and worked as a stockbroker. His personal journey through alcoholism instilled in him a profound sense of empathy and a mission to aid individuals in their recovery. Bill W.’s dedication and insights were instrumental in shaping the core principles of AA to provide a supportive environment for those seeking sobriety.

On the other hand, Dr. Bob Smith, also referred to as Dr. Bob, was a respected surgeon from Ohio. His path intersected with Bill W.’s in 1935, marking the beginning of a transformative partnership. Together, they envisioned a collaborative and empathetic approach to combat alcoholism, laying the foundation for a community that has since guided countless individuals toward healing and sobriety.

The collaborative efforts of these visionary founders resulted in the development of the renowned 12-step program, a framework that has not only benefitted AA but has also been embraced by numerous organizations to address a wide spectrum of addiction challenges.

What Is the 12-Step Approach to Addiction Treatment?

The 12-step approach, initially developed by the founders of AA, is a set of guiding principles outlining a course of action for tackling problems including alcoholism, drug addiction, and compulsion. The steps involve admitting one’s powerlessness over alcohol, recognizing a higher power, examining past errors, making amends for these errors, learning to live a new life with a unique code of behavior, and helping others who suffer from the same addictions.

At Recover Colorado, we incorporate the 12-step approach into our treatment programs, providing a structured framework for our patients’ recovery journey.

What to Expect from 12-Step Programs

When you join a 12-step program at Recover Colorado, you can expect:

  • Regular meetings with others who share similar challenges
  • An opportunity to share your experiences and learn from others
  • Guidance from a sponsor who has successfully navigated their recovery journey
  • A supportive and non-judgmental environment
  • Tools and strategies to help you maintain long-term sobriety

Our team is committed to providing a professional, empathetic, evidence-based addiction treatment approach. We understand that each individual’s journey toward recovery is unique, and we are here to support you every step of the way.

Enroll in a 12-Step Program for Addiction Treatment at Recover Colorado

The founders of AA, Bill Wilson and Dr. Bob Smith, have left an enduring legacy in the field of addiction recovery. Their 12-step program continues to provide a lifeline to individuals struggling with addiction worldwide. At Recover Colorado, we honor this legacy by incorporating the principles of the 12-step approach into our treatment programs. If you’re seeking support on your path to recovery, our team is here to help. Contact us online or call 888.695.5407 today to learn more about our programs and how we can assist you on your journey to sobriety.