Sanity Newsletter is a service of the New Jersey Region for its groups and members.
Input and Articles are welcome on all related topics
Is there anything particular you would like to see or read about in the Newsletter? Do you have something you would like to contribute? Send input and articles ton njrsc-rda@nanj.org
Opinions expressed here are those of individual addicts, not NA as a whole.
JULY 2026
WORLD SERVICE CONFRENCE
WSC 2026
50th anniversary of the World Service Conference
261 Participants
133 Regional Delegates
6 Zonal Delegates
(voting participant)
15 World Board Members
(voting participant)
113 Alternate Delegates
43 participants joined remotely 14 RDs/ZDs, 29 alternates and 1 WB member
Conference participants came from 47 countries and spoke or signed 31 languages.
Among all conference participants, there were 183 men, 81 women, and 2 non-binary participants.
Of the 134 RDs and ZDs, 66 were from the US, 5 from Canada, and 63 from outside the US and Canada — a truly global gathering.
Some Highlights
New IP #21 (Staying in Isolation) passed by unanimous support.
Afghanistan and Brazil were welcomed as newly seated regions.
Agreement reached to move forward with a gender-neutral revision of IP #1.
Next strategic plan (2029–2032) work began collaboratively at this conference.
Next World Convention of Narcotics Anonymous: Dublin, Ireland, 2028
A work group was started by the Ukrainian Region — joined by Israel — and has invited Iran and Russia to participate as well. Goal: create literature on recovery during war times, for regions directly affected by armed conflict. “Even though our governments cannot sit in the same room together, we as addicts can work together toward our common goal.” Invitation open to any region that feels they have something to contribute. Contact: Israel Region or the Ukrainian Region.
If you are interested in the CAR, CAT, CAR Survey or Straw Poll Results please follow the link bellow.
NOW THATS INTERESTING
Public Relations
Active PR efforts result in membership growth.
Social media is a huge advantage for PR — countries like Brazil have moved to creating YouTube videos; public interaction with those regions has exploded.
Outreach gaps: young addicts remain underrepresented.
Audio Recordings and Inmate Tablets
More effort being put into audio recordings to target younger members.
Largest inmate tablet provider covers over 1,500 correctional facilities; 36% of what people listen to is the Spanish audio.
English and Spanish versions of the Intro Guide have been created.
People — especially younger members — are listening instead of reading.
Reaching Out is also highly downloaded — it is only as good as the material submitted; please encourage H&I committees to submit material; inmates want our stories and experiences
Translations
- Building an accurate AI translation library for service material — asking anyone who has translated material to send it to NAWS; AI is only as good as what you feed it.
- Hoping this results in faster translation of surveys and reports for delegates.
- Used it to help translate the Conference Report — saved approximately 2 weeks of work.
CAR Survey Results
- 53 delegates (Region & Zone) responded.
- 9,188 member responses in 15 languages: Arabic, Dutch, English, Finnish, French, Hebrew, Italian, Norwegian, Polish, Portuguese, Slovak, Spanish, Swedish, Russian, and Ukrainian.
If you would like to see the full results of the Survey
Focus Groups
- Sign up via a form on the WSC/Projects website — available at the beginning of each cycle.
- Board and staff draw from responses based on experience, diversity, and topic fit.
NOVEMBER 2025
Results of the 2024 survey of 32,398 NA members
NeW SuRVey
Revising Group Business Meetings service pamphlet
This is a draft revision of the Group Business Meetings service pamphlet for review and input. Guided by CAR Survey results, the 2023 World Service Conference prioritized the following as one of the focuses for the New and Revised Service Tools project plan: Revise and update the service pamphlet Group Business Meetings to include CBDM and delegation.
Revising H&I Basics survey ended, they hope to have the next section up soon.
WELCOME TO CAR SEASON!!!!!
The Conference Agenda Report (CAR) is a report published every two years by the World Board of Narcotics Anonymous before the World Service Conference (WSC). It is a booklet of information, proposals, and discussion topics that members all over the world can review and vote on.
It includes things like:
Proposed changes or development to NA’s literature, policies, or service structure
Financial and project reports from the World Board
Regional motions (ideas submitted by local regions for discussion or vote)
Background essays explaining why motions are being proposed
The purpose of the CAR is to make sure that all NA members have a voice in how the fellowship is run. Groups and Regions study the report, hold/attend workshops to discuss it, and send their votes to their Regional Delegates, who carry the group’s vote to the WSC.
Because the conference is currently in the trial of a 3 year cycle, from 2023 to 2029, the CAR is currently being published on a 3 year basis.
You can download or print a copy of the CAR here https://na.org/conference/
NICKY’S TOTALLY UNHINGED BREAKDOWN OF THE 2026 CAR
(The version Nicky writes at 3 a.m. after chairing his homegroup business meeting that went 5 hours.)
Hey Everybody,
I know, I know, you’re all happy to have me back at the Regional body to help you through this CAR shi…. stuff. Hold the applause and the hugs, we got a lot of stuff to get through. This report is like EIGHTY SEVEN PAGES long. With only 5 motions I don’t know how this report could possibly be EIGHTY SEVEN PAGES! But we’re about to find out. Because You Probably Won’t Read the Whole Thing — And Honestly, I Don’t Blame You, I’m going to break it down as simply as I possibly can. And if you don’t like the way I break it down, yell at Michelle, she gave me the platform, she should know better.
1. Our Common Welfare
The World Board kicks off with a heartwarming “We’re all in this together!” speech, which is adorable considering half the Fellowship is convinced they’re slowly centralizing power like a spiritual CIA. They say the theme Our Common Welfare will “anchor us,” and honestly? At this point I need an anchor, a flotation device, and possibly a parachute.
Then they introduce Change Challenges Our Faith (a.k.a. “We’re Stagnant and It’s Awkward”), which should really be titled Change Challenges My Sanity. They admit what everyone already knows — NA growth has flatlined worldwide. The solution? “Let go of rigid ideas” and “stop acting like dinosaurs.” The irony of calling longtime members dinosaurs and then reminding them that extinction is bad is chef’s kiss.“
2.DELEGATE PREPARATION FOR WSC 2026
So this part is basically a long list of orders disguised as helpful reminders. “Fill this out.” “Turn this in.” “Book your flights.” “Submit your conscience.” The Delegates get a to-do list so long it should come with a grey key tag.
They brag about the hybrid conference format like they invented electricity. Meanwhile, half the Delegates are trying to vote with one bar of Wi-Fi and a cat walking across their keyboard.
And just when you think you can breathe, they hit you with the real kicker: Straw polls decide most things before the WSC even starts. So have your Region’s conscience collected before April 18, even though this CAR just dropped in November. Totally reasonable timeline for global consensus-building!
3. PRICING OUR LITERATURE
Buckle up, because the Board is about to ruin everyone’s day by talking about money. This is the section where NAWS sits us down for “a talk”.
The facts: World Services needs money. Shocking, right? They provide $750,000+ in free literature annually. They post IPs and booklets online for free in 60+ languages. Audio recordings, inmate tablets, all the things. It costs money. Who pays? Mostly the US Fellowship through literature sales.
The problem: NA growth in the US is “stagnant at best, declining at worst.” Fewer newcomers = fewer Basic Texts sold = financial freefall. In 20 years, Basic Text income went up 1.13% while expenses rose 15%. For those keeping score at home, that math doesn’t math.
The Real Solution: Direct contributions. They need 3,000 monthly contributors. They currently have under 1,000, averaging $28/month. To be fully self-supporting through contributions alone, they’d need 20,000+ members kicking in regularly.
Footnote: If they keep raising prices, you might see me buying literature out of Micky’s trunk… mind your business.
4. IP #21: STAYING CLEAN IN ISOLATION
Finally, something reasonable:
The old “Loner” pamphlet is being retired. Members pointed out the Basic Text literally describes pre-recovery addicts as “devious, frightened loners.” So yeah, maybe don’t call isolated members that? New title: Staying Clean in Isolation. Revolutionary.
In 2020, they prioritized revising the “Loner” IP. Then the entire world went into isolation. Comedy gold.
They’re proud of their focus groups and surveys, and honestly? They should be. The new pamphlet acknowledges virtual meetings, elder members, chronic illness, weird work schedules, and the many chaotic ways life can isolate us.
Give it a read, this is fellowship developed literature, support the process. Its Addendum A of the report.
5. THE NAWS STRATEGIC PLAN
This is the Board’s victory lap: for the first time ever, the strategic plan is in the CAR for the Fellowship to adopt. They highlight how “collaborative” and “participatory” the process was — because this time, they swear, everyone got to help shape it. Every time they say “collaborative”, my eyes just about roll out of my head.
They’re very proud of moving from “motion-based” to “discussion-based” service. Cute. If you’ve been around long enough, you know we’ve been “discussing” this shift since about 2006. Still, it’s progress. The Strategic Plan is supposed to be NA’s guiding light, helping us plan for the future instead of just reacting to problems. Think of it as the Fellowship’s GPS — except we keep hitting “reroute”… a lot.
The Board admits the strategic plan and CAR Survey don’t fit together seamlessly yet. They’re “working on it.” In the meantime, they slapped objective numbers next to survey items to show connections. It’s fine. Everything’s fine.
The vocabulary lesson: Key Result Areas (four pillars), Issues (priorities this cycle), Objectives (goals), Solutions (how to get there), Project Plans (nitty-gritty details), Charge Forms (marching orders for staff).
Critical detail: The three-year cycle is a trial run (2023-2029). If WSC 2029 doesn’t approve it permanently, this entire collaborative planning process dies. Why? Because there’s no time for this level of back-and-forth conversation in a two-year cycle with 300 people speaking 105 languages across 143 countries. Nothing like strong arming the fellowship into a corner they feel like they can’t get out of without giving the Board exactly what it wants.
So basically this section is a directive to adopt the plan and take ownership of what your delegates already created on your behalf. It’s consensus-based, collaborative, and represents years of work. Vote yes or blow up the whole experiment.
6. LOOKING FORWARD: WORLD CONVENTION OF NA
This is the part where they proudly announce WCNA planning is underway… but they can’t tell us where it is, when it is, what it will cost, or what galaxy it takes place in. Just trust them. Trust. Them.
The New Plan (Motion 3):
- WCNA every 5 years instead of 3, starting 2028. More special, more time to plan, milestone anniversaries (NA’s 75th in 2028!).
- Revenue-neutral events. No more financial bloodbaths. May require capped attendance.
- World Board picks the location based on “fiscal and geographic considerations.” Old zonal rotation? Dead. The world’s too unpredictable to lock in sites years ahead. They promise rotation “to the extent prudent and possible” and are planning 2028 for Europe.
The subtext: We can’t afford another DC. Trust us to make smarter choices.
7. GENDER-NEUTRAL & INCLUSIVE LANGUAGE
Here NAWS bravely wades into the “let’s not sound like a 1950s men’s club anymore” conversation. They promise not to rewrite everything — just tweak outdated stuff.
Here the Board introduces the idea of updating NA literature to be more gender-neutral and inclusive, which sounds simple until you remember how NA reacts to any change in literature.
They reassure us they’re not rewriting everything from scratch — just adjusting outdated language to reflect the actual diversity of our membership.
Expect future discussion, project plans, and probably a few heated debates at area meetings across the world.
Discussion question for CAR workshops: “Given that we all want NA to be welcoming (regardless of…), are we willing to explore these changes? If not, why not?”
Not for nothing but If changing “men and women” to “people” destroys NA, we had bigger problems than pronouns.
8.DRT/MAT (The Elephant That Won't Leave)
Medications to treat addiction. The issue that’s been a “wedge” for 20+ years. Over 850 responses to the IDT, many “painful to read.” Everyone’s positional. Everyone feels it’s about survival—both personal and Fellowship-wide.
The uncomfortable truth: NA growth in the US has flatlined. Half our members are over 50. 47% have 10+ years clean. We have fewer members under 30 and fewer who came in on medication than the rest of the Fellowship. Treatment programs are expanding, but they’re hesitant to refer people to NA because those on MAT report “hostile or unwelcoming” atmospheres. Some members are told by sponsors and other members NOT to share about their prescribed (sometimes legally mandated) meds. We’re creating an environment where addicts are afraid to tell the truth.
Where we DON’T have consensus: Whether someone on medication for addiction is “clean.”
Where we DO have consensus:
- Abstinence is integral to NA, but members define it differently
- Membership requires only a desire to stop using
- It’s not our job to determine what someone takes—it’s theirs, with their sponsor and HP
- We’re nonprofessional; we opt out of the treatment field’s conversations
- If we welcome people and keep them here, many will ultimately want to be clean
- Chasing people away before they get the message is deadly
The Board’s proposal: Stop trying to force consensus on whether MAT = abstinence. Accept that members disagree. Focus on what we DO agree on—welcoming addicts and helping them “take root” long enough to decide for themselves.
Discussion questions: “Does your group/area ask members if they’re on MAT when they celebrate or serve? What do you do next? How can we foster unity when members’ recovery processes differ from our own?”
Translation: Can we stop fighting about this and just love people long enough for the program to do its thing?
9. LITERATURE, SERVICE MATERIAL & IDT SURVEY
Ah yes, the survey — the bi/triannual? NA ritual where we pick two priorities, fully aware that maybe one will get done if the stars align. The Board links each survey item to the Strategic Plan objectives this year, hoping we’ll feel more “informed” while making choices. The Plan is supposed to guide the choices. That’s cute. I love fiction.
The Board admits it’s messy. CPs wanted a web meeting early on to discuss ideas—didn’t happen. The survey doesn’t integrate perfectly with the strategic plan yet—they’re “working on it.” They slapped objective numbers next to items to show connections, even though some are a stretch.
The big message:
Think beyond yourself and your group. Think globally. Think about underserved populations, not just your personal preferences. If everyone only voted for what they wanted, we’d never have IPs for young addicts or those with additional needs.The CAR Survey is open until April 1st — and yes, that’s April Fool’s Day. Coincidence? Probably not. But your answers really do shape the Strategic Plan for the next few years, so filling it out is one way to show you care about “the process”.
10. Regional Motions
One of the ways Regions get to participate is by submitting motions, which the Board respectfully reviews and occasionally supports. But if you’ve read enough CARs, you know the dance — motions come in, the Board raises concerns, and delegates debate them like we’re in a very polite political arena.
Still, it’s one of the few places where regions can directly steer global service — or at least feel like they tried.
If you did read the CAR you might have noticed the Regional Motion section had the least amount of paragraphs out of the whole report. No honey and fluff for this section, just facts and to the point— almost like they were afraid dressing it up might have some influence on the decisions we make.
Anyway, here are the motions:
Motion 4 To direct the World Board to create a project plan for consideration at WSC 2029 to research and explore the opportunities and obstacles of providing booklength pieces of literature to the incarcerated, on tablets, in addition to the IPs and audio version of the Fifth Edition Basic Text that already exist on inmate tablets.
Motion 5 To direct the World Board, to implement artificial intelligence (AI) interpretation solutions for WSC meetings (both in-person and virtual) to replace the current human live language interpretation.
11. GROUP CONSCIENCE COLLECTION SHEET
This is a cute little worksheet intended to help groups communicate their conscience to their delegate. In theory, it promotes unity and participation. In practice, half the sheets get misplaced, stained with coffee, or returned with three words: “WE TRUST YOU.”
Which is why our Region will be putting the tally sheet on our website for easy access and to stay neat and organized.
12. GLOSSARY (THE ONE PART OF THE CAR NICKY ACTUALLY LIKES)
Finally — a section that doesn’t make me want to throw my laptop out the window. The Glossary is the unsung hero of the entire CAR, because let’s be honest: most members at the group level are seeing words like “straw poll,” “zonal delegate,” and “collaborative planning” for the first time, and they deserve more than a 2-hour workshop taught by someone who hasn’t slept since the last RSC meeting.
This section actually does what service claims it’s supposed to do: support the groups.
It breaks down the maze of acronyms, roles, and procedural wizardry into simple language that doesn’t require a PhD in Robert’s Rules or CBDM to interpret.(not sure what that acronym is, check out the glossary!) And for once, NAWS isn’t telling us what to think — just what things mean — which is surprisingly refreshing in a report full of Very Big Plans.
If you’ve ever sat in a business meeting pretending you knew the difference between a WB member, a WSC Cofacilitator, and a regional motion — the Glossary is your new best friend. It’s the instructional manual for the service structure, except this one actually makes sense and doesn’t require an emotional support animal to get through.
13–17. ADDENDA (A–E)
These are for the service nerds who read documents like bedtime stories:
The addenda include:
- A: Full text of the new IP #21
- B: Full NAWS Strategic Plan
- C: Proposed WCNA Guidelines
- D: Current WCNA Guidelines
- E: List of all published NA materials
Together, they form the Extended Universe of the CAR.
Final Thoughts
This CAR is a lot. It’s dense, it’s ambitious, and it’s asking the Fellowship to think big, talk more, and embrace uncertainty. The Board is clearly betting on the three-year conference cycle and the collaborative planning process to carry NA into the future. Whether that bet pays off remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: the days of just showing up, voting on motions, and going home are long gone. This is a new era of service, and it’s going to take some getting used to.
Welcome to WSC 2026. Buckle up.
Attend the workshops, they really do help to get a better understanding of the information presented in this report and give you the opportunity to hear other members perspectives, which ultimately helps you inform your homegroup. Check out the Philly workshop that meets every Wednesday online. It was good, I personally got a lot out of it. The info and zoom information is below in this newsletter under Upcoming CAR Workshops.
As always, in loving service,
Nicky
Upcoming Dates Of Importance
- 3 November 2025 – 2026 CAR posted
- 3 December 2025 – Translated CARs posted
- 3 January 2026 – Deadline for regional material to be submitted for inclusion in the CAT posting
- 3 February 2026 – Conference Approval Track material posted
- 28 February 2026 – Regional and zonal report deadline
- 28 February 2026 – Deadline for regional material to be submitted for inclusion in the Conference Report
- 3 March 2026 – Deadline for amendments to CAR/CAT motions and seating motions; must be in final form by 18 March 2026
- 3 March 2026 – Deadline for funding request and WSC registration (form posted on na.org/conference)
- 1 April 2026 – CAR Survey and CAR discussion questions deadline (surveys posted at na.org/surveys)
- After 18 April 2026 – Initial Straw Poll ePoll (CPs will have 72 hours to respond)
- 3–9 May 2026 – World Service Conference 2026
Upcoming CAR Workshops
Southern Zonal Forum– 22 November (World Board participation)
9-11am Central
7am-9am Pacific Standard Time
Meeting ID: 899 0775 9952
Passcode: 121212
MERL – December 5th thru 7th (World Board participation)
Rocky Mountain Zonal Forum Dec 12-13th
9am Mountain Time
Meeting ID 882 5359 2023 Password: 2026CAR
MARLCNA – January 16th thru 18th (World Board participation)
The Greater Philadelphia Region in conjunction with the NEZF FD Committee will be holding WEEKLY informational workshops for the CAR starting November 12th
7-9pm Zoom ID:897 3056 4000 Password:553999
Snippets From The Zone
Proposals
October 2025
Proposal 1
Follow think tanks recommendation and mark it complete on our end and drop this from our project plans. This includes sending a liaison to the US COZ project workgroup. CARRIES – 67% SUPPORT
Proposal 2
To end H&l task team – CARRIES – 92% support
Proposal 3
Update Guidelines Strategic Planning Section 9 to reflect current practices. CARRIES – 92% support
Proposal 4
For the NEZF to take financial responsibility for all associated hotel conference room costs of in-person meetings. – LACKS CONSENSUS – 25%
FINAL DECISION (92%) – Send to Finance to rework
Proposal 5
For the NEZF to contribute $2000 towards the funding of the in-person October 2026 meeting hosted by NNE CARRIES – 92%
Proposal 6
Pause the work on the Service Helpline Project Plan
DOES NOT CARRY – 8% SUPPORT
Proposal 7
Form a task team for targeting marginally underserved communities, Pulled – Project Plan no longer exists. Task Team not needed
Proposal 8
To formally join the USCOZ – postponed due to clarity of open Forum Topic 2
Interesting News and Discussions
Connecticut Region
Their WSR committee (Writing Steps for Recovery) reported that NAWS has completed the download and installation of what’s available for free literature on inmates’ tablets. This was met with great fanfare.
Literature on the tablets is available to any inmate who has access to them, not just
those participating in WSR. Currently, only free downloadable materials from the NA website are
included; full book-length literature is not available. The facility is considering implementing WSR through email rather than postal mail. It is not yet confirmed whether the free audio Basic Text will
be included, but if classified as free literature, it may fall under the same allowance.
ABCD Region
Is required to provide four workshops at an off-cycle meeting, so they decided to try something new — and it was a big success! Instead of hosting traditional sessions, they offered workshops based on the Service Pamphlets, and the participation and engagement was fantastic. Members appreciated the practical format and the opportunity to connect with the materials in a more interactive way. Happy to share that trying new approaches was not only well received, but also really sparked interest and discussion.
What is our Zonal identity? What differentiates zonal projects vs. regional / local projects? What do we want our committees to be doing? how does the large geographic/membership area of
the 15 regions zone distinguish what tasks NEZF reports on vs. should send back to regions/areas. – coordination and support “filling in the gaps” (Chair) There was a discussion about what it means to be a zone and how the NEZF differs from a region or area. Members shared that the value of the zone lies in coordination, information-sharing, and serving as a conduit
between the regions and World Services. FD and zonal participation provide access to new voices, shared resources, and collaboration opportunities, although it was acknowledged that at times the zone has stepped too far into regional functions and should remain mindful of those boundaries. It was suggested that the zone
continue checking in regularly on its purpose and direction, ask regions what they need from the NEZF, and consider incorporating this conversation into the next strategic planning cycle, including more workshopping
of World Services topics.
General NEZF INFO
Fellowship Development Meets – Every third Wednesday at 8 pm.
The PR Committee meets every third Tuesday of the month from 9:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
NESSSNA meets 2nd Sunday of the month at 9:00am
Finance Committee meets 3rd Monday of every month at 8pm
Service Helpline – Task Team has now formed and is meeting the 2nd Monday of each month @ 9pm
Next NEZF meeting January 25,2026 @ 2pm
All Zoom links can be found at nezf.org
NEZF FD is here to support any service requests
NEZF Service Request – North East Zonal Forum of Narcotics Anonymous
As a reminder, when reaching out to Fellowship Development – please provide as much information as you can and be prepared to communicate via email to answer any follow-up questions.
Wanna Volunteer to be of assistance?
Service Volunteers – North East Zonal Forum of Narcotics Anonymous (nezf.org)
Upcoming Topics of Discussion
At the January NEZF meeting
- NEZFs roll at the US Collaboration of Zone
- Zonal Identity – What differentiates Zonal Service and Local Service? What do we want our committees to be doing?
- Fund Flow
Strategic Planning Update
Service Hotline
Targeting Marginally/Underserved Communities
- Project dropped
- Assigned a Liaison to the US Collaboration of Zones task team Marginalized Communities/Rural Support
SO WHAT IS GOING ON AT THE REGIONAL LEVEL?
More to come after todays RSC
July 2025
Sanity Newsletter is a service of the New Jersey Region for its groups and members.
Opinions expressed here are those of individual addicts, not NA as a whole.
Input and Articles are welcome on all related topics.
Is there anything particular you would like to see or read about in the Newsletter? Do you have something you would like to contribute? Send input and articles to njrsc-rda@nanj.org
Dr. Seuss Clean Time
It’s black and it’s gold, it’s gold and it’s black.
You did it! You did it!
You kept coming back!
If it’s rainy and cloudy or too wet to play,
just take solace it knowing your key tag is gray!
You’re here and you did it,
your key tag is glowing!
But don’t forget stepwork’s the way you keep growing!
7 + 2 or a 3 if you square it.
Don’t sit on your secrets, you’re free if you share it!
Half of a year, the percentage is fifty!
You’re not using drugs, thats incredibly nifty!
The 90!
You got it, you’re here and that’s stellar plus you’ve found a meeting that’s not in a cellar!
the 60, congrats!
It’s green, come and pick it. You’re clean but it’s not, my advice is don’t lick it!
A month, yes a month! Oh you made it, you made it! It’s been 30 days since you last wound up faded
Not the cat or the fish or that creature named Horton, of anyone here, my friend, you’re most important!
Submitted by : Matt Glase Boom
Surviving Against All Odds, Haddonfield, NJ
REGIONAL NEWS
OPEN REGIONAL POSITIONS!!!
Lots of opportunities available in September to get in service at the Regional level!
Assistant Secretary 1 year clean time/ 1 year term.
Assistant Policy 2 years clean time/ 1 year term.
BOT Members (4) 5 years (non-waivable) clean time/ 1 RSC following convention
History & Archives Chair 3 years clean time/ 1 year term
Lit Review Chair 3 years clean time/ 1 year term.
SBTW Members (2) 3 years clean time/ 1 year term.
Assistant Treasurer 3 years clean time/ 1 year term
Regional Chair 3 years clean time/ 1 year term.
Policy Chair 5 years clean time/ 1 year term.
BOT Chair 5 years (non-waivable) clean time/ 1 year term
Convention Chair 5 years clean time/ 1 year term
Convention Treasurer 5 years (non-waivable) clean time/ 1 year term
NEW JERSEY REGIONAL CONVENTION
August 1 to the 3rd!!!!
Westin Princeton at Forrestal Village
201 Village Boulevard Princeton, NJ 08540
In addition to all the amazing things the Convention Committee has planned for this years event, PR and Helpline will be hosting workshops at the convention. Be sure to stop by and support our amazing Trusted Servants.
Sub Committees of the NEW Jersey Region
H&I – next meets Saturday August 9th @ 11am
PR – Will be meeting Friday August 8th @ 9pm
Website – Next meets Saturday August 23rd @ 10am
Sponsorship Behind The Walls – will next meet August 15th @8pm
If you would like to get involved with Helpline they will meet with Shared Services August 16th @ noon
North East Zonal Forum
Sunday, July 27th, 2025 – 2:00 PM ET Meeting ID: 859 5086 2091. Password: NEZF
If you’re interested in learning about the Zone and what goes on there, jump on, everyone is welcome! If you are interested in getting involved with the Zone go to nezf.org for committee meeting information, ways to get involved and what the Zone has to offer.
Sanity News September 2004
NAWS
Brief History of The CAR Survey
This information was gathered from past Confrence Agenda Reports
2016 CAR (Conference Agenda Report)
- The survey is first introduced as a way to get a sense of the Fellowships priorities for Recovery Literature, Service Material and IDTs (Issue Discussion Topics) subjects that recovering addicts in NA communities around the world focus on in discussions and workshops throughout Conference cycle, Think of IDTs as topics taken for open forum at Region on a much broader spectrum for a longer period of time..
- Sources for the survey came from project requests from members, holdover items from former surveys, suggestions from delegates and alternates and items the fellowship repeatedly asked for.
- The survey was “Beta tested” with Regional Delegates and alternates before it was drafted for the CAR. The results of the beta test were used to refine and expand the list.
- Delegates were asked to fill out this survey on behalf of their Regions before the conference. Individual members were welcome to fill out the survey also.
2018 CAR
- Sources for this survey came from delegates,regional input to the strategic planning process, emails and calls to World Services, workshop results, conversations with Board members, and Conference participant input on an initial draft of this survey.
- There is no mention in this report directing delegates or members to fill out the survey or how the survey was drafted.
2020 CAR
- Many of the items on this list are carry overs from the 2 previous surveys with some ideas added from conversations, emails, phone calls, workshops and input to the planning process. A draft of the survey was presented to the delegates for input and ideas were added from the current CAR motions at that time.
- This CAR the focus shifts to members filling out the survey online but for the delegates to also collect their bodies conscience.
2023 CAR
- This survey included 4 items that came from motions already approved at previous conferences. Other sources came from previous surveys, emails, phone calls, conversations, workshops and delegates.
- Members are asked to fill out the survey online and conference participants to collect their service bodies conscience.
- Some participants express they would like to see a more abbreviated list of choices, the survey is getting long and daunting.
- Possible development of a process by which participants can COLLABERATIVELY (the word that escaped me Saturday!) vet the CAR Survey list.
2025 Interim WSC
Motion 5
- To adopt for the current conference cycle only: The 2026 WSC will take anew step in Strategic Planning by using a revised process (described below)for the CAR survey to consider ideas for recovery literature, service material,and Issue Discussion Topics. Instead of submitting motions for project plans to create specific pieces of service material, recovery literature or IDTs for the 2026 Conference Agenda Report, conference participants will submit those ideas for possible inclusion in the 2026 CAR survey.
- Intent: To implement a process for all conference participants to collaboratively create a CAR survey with all ideas for Fellowship consideration of literature, service materials, and Issue Discussion Topics.
- Huge push to get the survey out to the fellowship for input.
Where we are currently in the process
March 2025
- A link was posted to the Conference page of NAWS website and Survey page, to collect ideas and input for the CAR survey for new or revised recovery literature, service material or issue discussion topics.
- Region was held March 16th and we received the email on March 18th with a deadline of May 20th
- Lou sent an email to the body to inform everyone that the input form was posted and I put it in the Newsletter in an attempt to spread the word.
July 1,2025
- The Conference Participants received an email with the link to prioritize the ideas submitted to the survey.
- The delegates were instructed to choose up to 5 ideas that should be included in the final CAR survey.
July 11, 2025
- The conference Participants received an email for the second round of prioritization of ideas to be included in the CAR survey.
- August CP webinar Conference Participants will discuss next steps in survey finalization.
H&I Basics Draft
The second of three pieces in our H&I Basics series is now available for review and input. This tool, H&I Basics: Treatment, is addressed to those bringing meetings into treatment settings. It was developed with input from members doing hospitals and institutions service around the world, and for the next 90 days we invite input and suggestions from all interested members to make this the most useful resource it can be. The first piece in the series, H&I Basics: Corrections, is being revised based on your input now. The third piece, H&I Basics: Committees, will come next and will be focused on H&I committees’ structure and functions.
IMPORTANT DATES
•30 September 2025–Deadline for RBZs hrp@na.org
•3 November 2025–2026 CAR posted
•3 December 2025–Translated CARs posted
•3 February 2026–Conference Approval Track material posted
18 April-Initial CAR Straw poll poll
•3–9 May 2026 –World Service Conference
Current NAWS Projects, Issue Discussion Topics and Surveys
Future Of The WSC
Local Service Toolbox
Revising H&I Basics
Revising IP 21 The Loner
Focus Group Volunteer Form for 2023-2026 conference cycl
Gender – Neutral & Inclusive Language
Disruptive and Predatory Behavior
DRT/MAT as it relates to NA
Reimagining & Revitalizing Service Committee
MARCH 2025
Sanity Newsletter is a service of the New Jersey Region for its groups and members.
Opinions expressed here are those of individual addicts, not NA as a whole.
Input and Articles are welcome on all related topics.
Is there anything particular you would like to see or read about in the Newsletter? Do you have something you would like to contribute? Send input and articles to njrsc-rda@nanj.org
EXCERPTS FROM PAST SANITY NEWSLETTERS
Interim WSC 2025 CAT/CAR Motion Results
Y-Yes
N-No
A-Abstentions
P-Present not voting
Initial Straw Poll was sent out February 17, 2025 with 72hrs to respond.
Interim WSC February 28th and March 1st
Motion # 1
To adopt for the 2025 Interim WSC and the 2026 WSC only: If a motion has consensus in an initial straw poll (that’s 80% or more in support or not in support), the Cofacilitators will announce the results as a final decision.
Intent: To minimize time spent addressing items the conference already has agreement on.
Initial Straw Poll – 88 Y, 28 N, 7 A, 3 P 71 % Consensus Support
Final Straw Poll 84 Y, 35 N, 2 A, 3 P 69% Consensus Support
Motion Carries
Motion # 2
To approve the 2023 World Service Conference minutes.
Initial Straw Poll – 116 Y, 0 N, 5 A, 2 P 95 % Consensus Support
Finale Straw Poll – 114 Y, 1 N, 1 N, 7 A 92 % Consensus support
Motion Carries
Motion # 3
To approve the 2025–2026 Narcotics Anonymous World Services, Inc. Budget. (See Addendum A).
Intent: To have an approved NAWS Budget through WSC 2026.
Initial Straw Poll – 119 Y, 1 N, 4 A, 2 P 95% Consensus Support
Motion Carries
Motion # 4
To extend the 2023–2025 Reimbursement Policy through the 2026 fiscal year.
Intent: To keep the 2023 WSC approved policy in place through the next WSC.
Initial Straw Poll – 118 Y, 2 N, 4 A, 2 P 95% Consensus Support
Motion Carries
Motion # 5
To adopt for the current conference cycle only: The 2026 WSC will take a new step in Strategic Planning by using a revised process (described below) for the CAR survey to consider ideas for recovery literature, service material, and Issue Discussion Topics. Instead of submitting motions for project plans to create specific pieces of service material, recovery literature or IDTs for the 2026 Conference Agenda Report, conference participants will submit those ideas for possible inclusion in the 2026 CAR survey.
Intent: To implement a process for all conference participants to collaboratively create a CAR survey with all ideas for Fellowship consideration of literature, service materials, and Issue Discussion Topics.
Initial Straw Poll – 112 Y, 6 N, 6 A, 2 P 90 % Consensus Support
Motion Carries
Motion # 6 Amended
To update A Guide to World Services in NA (GWSNA) amendment deadline policy to include first draft due sixty (60) days in advance of WSC and final amendment deadline thirty (30) days in advance of WSC.
Intent: To establish deadlines for the submission of amendments that allow for time to get a draft amendment conference ready and to be translated and straw polled in advance of the WSC meeting.
Initial Straw Poll – 83 Y, 26 N, 8 A, 9 P 70% strong support
Second Straw Poll – 87 Y, 29 N, 5 A, 4 P 71% Strong Support
Motion Carries
Motion # 7 Amended
Motion: To add to GWSNA amendment deadline policy to include first draft due forty- five (45 days) in advance of interim WSC and final amendment deadline thirty (30 days) in advance of interim WSC.
Intent: To establish deadlines for the submission of amendments that allow for time to get a draft amendment conference ready and to be translated and straw polled in advance of the interim WSC meeting.
Initial Straw Poll – 82 Y – 26 N – 8 A – 10 P
Second Straw Poll – 86Y – 24N – 2A – 4P
Motion Carries
Motion # 8
To add the following language defining amendments to the CAR & CAT-related paragraphs in GWSNA (pages 13 & 14):
An amendment to a motion is a change or addition designed to improve the motion. The purpose of an amendment is to refine a motion to move the Fellowship closer toward consensus. An amendment should clarify, add, or subtract language that keeps the motion consistent with its intent. An amendment shall not replace a motion or introduce a substitute or contrary motion. A motion to split or divide a motion is an amendment to the motion.
Intent: To clearly define the purpose of an amendment and its relation to a motion.
Initial Straw Poll – 119 Y, 1 N, 4 A, 2 P 95% Consensus Support
Motion Carries
Motion # 9
To make the following changes regarding amendments and replacements of motions during the decision-making process to Addendum F in GWSNA: 8. The Conference may decide to replace or amend motions that have been presented based on prior discussions. When the motion is presented, the WSC Co-facilitator may recognize any participant offering a replacement or amendment, or offer a suggestion to the Conference during the discussion of a motion. If supported by two-thirds of the Conference, the replacement/amendment will be accepted. The WSC Co-facilitator may interrupt this simplified process at any time they believe such action is warranted
Intent: To revise GWSNA to reflect the current practices of the WSC on how amendments or replacements to motions based on discussion are handled during business sessions.
Initial Straw Poll – 103 Y, 11 N, 9 A, 3 P 83 % Consensus Report
Motion Carries
Motion # 10
All candidates for World Service positions are forwarded to the HRP from regions, zonal forums, or the World Board (RBZ).
Intent: To ensure that all potential nominees for WSC election are forwarded through the HRP’s RBZ process.
Initial Straw Poll – 113 Y, 5 N, 5 A, 3P 91% Consensus Support
Motion Carries
Motion # 11
If Motion 10 is adopted, to redefine the purpose of the World Pool to be used to retain information on candidates forwarded for consideration by regions, zones, and the World Board as a part of the Human Resource Panel’s nomination process.
Initial Straw Poll – 111 Y, 6 N, 7 A, 2 P 89% Consensus Support
Motion Carries
Motion # 12
To not utilize a seating workgroup for the 2023–2026 cycle.
Intent: To attempt a simpler process for compiling seating information and recommendations.
Initial Straw Poll – 105 Y, 7 N, 11 A, 3 P 85% Consensus Support
Motion Carries
CAR SURVEY IDEAS
Email from the World Board about the CAR Survey….
Since 2016, the results of a “CAR survey” have helped the World Service Conference set priorities for recovery literature, service material, and Issue Discussion Topics. Any member, group, or service body can submit ideas for the CAR survey, but that fact has not been well known. To make it easier and hopefully raise awareness, we have created a form for 2026 CAR Survey ideas. It’s posted at the top of the conference page. Right below it, we’ve posted the results from the 2023 CAR survey, so you can see what’s been included in the survey in the past. If you’d like to see one of the ideas from 2023 included again in 2026, go ahead and resubmit it.
Any member or service body can forward ideas for consideration for new or revised recovery literature, service material, or Issue Discussion Topics. Use this link to add your idea for possible inclusion in the 2026 CAR survey. The deadline for this input is 20 May.
Once we have a list of ideas from members, groups, service bodies, and conference participants, the World Board will combine, sort, and send them to conference participants. Ultimately, conference participants—your regional and zonal delegates and board members—will determine which items will appear on the 2026 CARSurvey. When the CAR Survey is too long, many members have shared that it becomes overwhelming, and so it’s likely not every idea submitted will wind up in the final draft survey, but don’t let that hold you back from submitting.
Please only include one idea per submission.
Important Dates
March-May 2025 – Collect Ideas for 2026 CAR survey, including ideas generated at Interim WSC
1 May 2025 – Deadline for regions to request seating
20 May 2025 – Deadline for Car Survey input
June or July 2025 – Ballot of all ideas sent to Conference Participants
August 2025 CP Web meeting – Discuss list of ideas for the 2026 CAR Survey. The list could be finalized at the web meeting or require another ballot.
30 September 2025 – Deadline for RBZ recommendations hrp@na.org
3 November 2025 – 2026 CAR posted
3 December 2025 – translated CARs posted
3 February 2026 – Conference Approval Track material posted
3 – 9 May 2026 – World Service Conference 2026
CURRENT NAWS PROJECTS
Future Of The WSC
Local Service Toolbox
Revising H&I Basics
Revising IP 21 The Loner
Focus Group Volunteer Form for 2023-2026 conference cycle
ISSUE DISCUSSION TOPICS INPUT FORMS
Gender – Neutral & Inclusive Language
Disruptive and Predatory Behavior
DRT/MAT as it relates to NA
Reimagining & Revitalizing Service Committees
CURRENT NAWS SURVEYS
WCNA Survey (deadline March 24, 2025
Virtual Service Basics Input Survey (deadline April 1, 2025)
CAR Survey (deadline May 20, 2026)
All Current Projects, Issue Discussion Topic Forms and Current NAWS Surveys can be found here.
OPEN REGIONAL POSITIONS
Vacancies...
Vacancies...
Vacancies!!!
Vice Chairperson 2 years clean time/ 1 year term.
Assistant Secretary 1 year clean time/ 1 year term
Assistant Policy 2 years clean time/ 1 year term
BOT Members (4) 5 years (non-waivable) clean time/ 1 RSC following convention
History & Archives Chair 3 years clean time/ 1 year term
Lit Review Chair 3 years clean time/ 1 year term
SBTW Members (3) 3 years clean time/ 1 year term
SUB COMMITTEES OF THE NEW JERSEY REGION
Helpline Committee meets the 4th Sunday of every month at 12:00pm
Public Information meets the 2nd Friday of every month at 9:00pm
H&I will next meet April 12th @11:00am
Website will next meet April 26th at 10:00am
Sponsorship Behind The Walls meets the 3rd Friday of every month at 8:00pm
If would would like to get involved or attend any of the Sub Committee meetings you can find the Zoom link at www.nanj.org
FEBRUARY 2025
Sanity Newsletter is a service of the New Jersey Region for its groups and members.
Opinions expressed here are those of individual addicts, not N.A. as a whole.
Input and Articles are welcome on all related topics.
Is there anything particular you would like to see or read about in the Newsletter?
Send input and articles to
njrsc-rda@nanj.org
Vacancies...
Vacancies...
Vacancies!!!
OPEN REGIONAL POSITIONS
Vice Chairperson 2 years clean time/ 1 year term.
Secretary 1 year clean time/ 1 year term
Assistant Secretary 1 year clean time/ 1 year term
Assistant Treasurer 4 years (un-waivable) clean time/ 1 year t
Assistant Policy 2 years clean time/ 1 year term
BOT Members (4) 5 years (non-waivable) clean time/ 1 RSC following convention
History & Archives Chair 3 years clean time/ 1 year term
Lit Review Chair 3 years clean time/ 1 year term
SBTW Members (3) 3 years clean time/ 1 year term
Excerpts from Sanity Newsletter November 2003
WHAT YOUR REGIONAL SUB COMMITTEES ARE UP TO
Helpline
Every year the Helpline Committee verifies that every Helpline Volunteer is still active. The volunteer verification will start in February. The verifier will call the volunteer up to 3 times. If no response is received after 3rd call the volunteer is removed from the list.
If you would like to get involved with Helpline the Committee meets the 4th Saturday of every month at 12:00pm virtually.
The Statewide Helpline Committee Secretary position is open. We need a committed trusted servant to
come be a part of our Helpline team
Public Information
P.I. has been busy with their social media initiative. They have launched the Narcotics Anonymous New Jersey FaceBook page! Go check them out and give them a follow! Interested in getting involved with P.I. at the Regional level?Public Information meets virtually the 2nd Friday of every month at 9:00pm.
Website
The Website Committee has been hard at work building the new website. The website is live for review at wp.nanj.org There is a link on the home page for feedback. They are looking for input on easy of use, accurate transfer of contented and overall functionality. The events calendar page is not finished yet but you can access the old page on the new site. Website will meet February 22nd at 10:00 am
H&I
H&I is working on a running list of H&I commitments (filled/open) for the NJ Region. This will allow Regional H&I to have a list of all filled/open commitments to avoid facilities receiving double areas with other facilities in need. This list is being put together by the H&I secretary and is a working concept at the moment. If you are an Area H&I chair please join the next regional H&I meeting being held Saturday February 8 @ 11:00am
Sponsorship Behind The Walls
SBTW is always looking for willing members interested in sponsoring an inmate! All correspondence with the inmates is done through mail. You must have worked all 12 steps to be a sponsor. The committee would love to attend any events in the Region and set up a table to talk to members and get more sponsors! If your Area is interested in having them attend an event or any member is interested in becoming a sponsor, the committee next meets on February 21st @ 8pm or reach out through email stbw@nanj.org
This committee is also in need of a secretary! Any willing participant just needs to show up to our subcommittee meeting and can be voted in by the body!
NORTH EAST ZONAL FORUM
The Zone last meet January 26th at 3 pm. We Approved the Strategic Plan from the Strategic Planning session in October. The first plan is to create a Service Helpline. This helpline will be for SERVICE related help and inquiries. The other plan approved is to target marginalized and underserved members. Potential Targets : youth/emerging adults, rural, non-english speakers, LGBTQ, Indigenous and accessibility needs. If you have any questions or would like to see the plans in more detail contact the RD team njrsc-rd@nanj.org
Zones 2024 Financial Report
Total Income was $6,071.32 (Entirely from Regional Donations)
Total Expenses were $4,882.29
Travel Expenses – $3,676.51
Public Relations Expenses – $705.00
IT Expenses – $500.78
Here is the 2025 Budget Approved at the January ZONE
Important Dates
13 February 2025–Deadline for amendments to be in final form for Interim WSC
28 February & 1 March 2025 (11am -1pm & 2pm – 4pm, PST) – Interim WSC
1 May 2025 – Deadline for regions to request seating
30 September 2025 – Deadline for RBZ recommendations hrp@na.org
3 November 2025 – 2026 CAR posted
3 December 2025 – translated CARs posted
3 February 2026 – Conference Approval Track material posted
3 – 9 May 2026 – World Service Conference 2026
WCNA 38
The working budget for WCNA 38 had a projected break-even point of 24,000 people. This break-even number was based off of the amount of registrants from WCNA 37. Unfortunately, only 18,320 people, including newcomers, registered for WCNA 38. With fewer than 17,000 paid registrants, registration numbers were well below the conservative expectations. It was the lowest number of onsite registrants in memory. The Board created a WCNA Survey to try and figure out what drove the decline in attendance. The survey is for those that attended and especially those that chose not to. The lack of attendance resulted in a loss of over $800,000. They are still working on the final numbers and we should have them soon. In 2023, the WSC suspended the WCNA rotation policy. The World Board is now looking at what is possible, practical, and prudent for the future of the World Convention.
Leftover WCNA merchandise is on sale. If interested click the link below!
CURRENT NAWS PROJECTS
Future Of The WSC
Local Service Toolbox
Revising H&I BasicsRevising IP 21 The Loner – Staying Clean in Isolation
ISSUE DISCUSSION TOPICS INPUT FORMS
Gender – Neutral & Inclusive Language
Disruptive and Predatory Behavior
DRT/MAT as it relates to NA
Reimagining & Revitalizing Service Committees
CURRENT NAWS SURVEYS
Step Working Material
2024 Membership Survey (deadline 31 January 2025)
WCNA Survey
Virtual Service Basics Input Survey (deadline 1 March 2025)
All Current Projects, Issue Discussion Topic Forms and Current NAWS Surveys can be found here.
NOVEMBER 2024
Important Dates
28 November 2024-Interm CAR/CAT
13 February 2025–Deadline for amendments to be in final form for Interim WSC
28 February & 1 March 2025 (11am -1pm & 2pm – 4pm, PST) – Interim WSC
1 May 2025 – Deadline for regions to request seating
30 September 2025 – Deadline for RBZ recommendations hrp@na.org
3 November 2025 – 2026 CAR posted
3 December 2025 – translated CARs posted
3 February 2026 – Conference Approval Track material posted
3 – 9 May 2026 – World Service Conference 2026
OPEN REGIONAL POSITIONS
Vice Chairperson 2 years clean time/ 1 year term.
Secretary 1 year clean time/ 1 year term
Assistant Secretary 1 year clean time/ 1 year term
Assistant Treasurer 4 years (un-waivable) clean time/ 1 year t
Assistant Policy 2 years clean time/ 1 year term
BOT Members (4) 5 years (non-waivable) clean time/ 1 RSC following convention
History & Archives Chair 3 years clean time/ 1 year term
Lit Review Chair 3 years clean time/ 1 year term
SBTW Members (3) 3 years clean time/ 1 year term
CURRENT NAWS SURVEYS
Step Working Material
2024 Membership Survey (deadline 31 January 2025)
ISSUE DISCUSSION TOPICS INPUT FORMS
Gender – Neutral & Inclusive Language
Disruptive and Predatory Behavior
DRT/MAT as it relates to NA
Reimagining & Revitalizing Service Committees
NORTH EAST ZONAL FORUM Summary of Decisions
October 25th- 27th New Jersey Region
PROPOSALS
Make it clear in our guidelines that anyone can submit a proposal
Proposal Adopted w. consensus – 12:0:2:0
Guidelines Workgroup – Workgroup/Task Team Language
Proposal Adopted unanimously – 14:0:0:0
Set a defined schedule for when and how the reports and general communications are emailed to the NEZF participants.
Proposal Adopted w. consensus – 12:0:2:0
The Fall in person sessions/meetings of the NEZF be shifted to the 4th weekend in September, commencing 2025.
Does not pass – 5-6-2-1
To create H&l Subcommittee
Does not pass – 8:5:1:0
That the NEZF create a digital means for financial transactions for collecting donations, dispensing reimbursements and bill payment to agencies
Proposal Adopted w. consensus – 13:0:1:0
That the NEZF Steering Committee take financial decisions on the NEZF’s behalf, by consensus with other steering committee members, in the interim period between in-person zonal meetings on requests of financial transactions, reimbursements or related subcommittee expenses based on the budget approved at each meeting by the body
Proposal deferred to finance. – 10:0:3:1
Reimbursement of 5,000 Helpline Cards for MASCA event ($214.91)
Proposal Adopted unanimously- 14:0:0:0
Reimburse travel and expenses as well as workshop supplies for facilitators of the strategic planning session. ($1,372.65 )
Proposal postponed
Reimburse secretary expense ($435)
Proposal Adopted – 14:0:0:0
SATURDAY – STRATEGIC PLANNING
1:1 interviews, Small Group Discussions, Creative Foundation Work, Small Group Discussion, Large Group Discussion, Action Statements
PRIORITIZED PROJECT PLAN (IN ORDER OF SUPPORT)
- NEZF Service Helpline Project Plan
- Targeting Marginally or Underserved
Members Project Plan - Streamlined Communications Project
Plan. - Financial Planning Project Plan
ELECTIONS
Chair – Vacant
Treasurer – Andrew (WNY) elected
FD – Sarah (WNY) re-elected
IT – Dennis (NNY) re-elected
Vice Chair – Allyse (CT) elected
Secretary – D’Lanor (NE) elected
PR – Richie (ENY) re-elected
TREASURY
Closing treasurer report:
Starting Balance – $4,772.82
Total Expenses – $2128.16
Ending balance: – $3,584.41
Next Zonal Forum – 1/28 online you can find the Zoom link at nerf.org
HOT TOPICS FROM THE ZONE
Should H&I be a standing sub committee of the zone?
A little background :
In January of 2023 a Project Plan was submitted to the Zonal body to create a Zonal H&I Committee. The Project Plan failed.
In April of 2023 a subgroup of PR began meeting in regard to starting a zonal H&I committee.
Since forming under PR, the H&I Workgroup has been meeting twice a month. They have been working on revising the H&I Handbook and have meet with NYs DOCCS on behalf of NY Regions to obtain virtual meetings in prisons, Awareness Days and smoother clearance processes.
At the October Zone, 2 of the NY Regions submitted Proposals to create an H&I Sub Committee at the Zonal level. The proposals were combined into one. It did not pass. There were 8 Regions in favor, 5 opposed and 1 Region abstaining.
Some of the reasonings for the no votes…
The Body voted against the H&I Project Plan in January of 2023, some feel like PR has not respected the voice of the body by forming the sub group under PR.
Some like the idea of having H&I at the zonal level but now is not the time.
Some feel there is not a need at this time.
And some had concern with creating another position for a funded trusted servant when the Zone does not yet have a budget.
(Side note… The Zone will hopefully have a budget by January for the RDs to present to their Regions)