A SIRA meeting is a unique tool to use during recovery

While SIRA is not a replacement for therapy when needed, the camaraderie and sisterhood which survivors feel when among others who have been through similar experiences is not something easily described.

The time spent with others who understand (and who ‘get it’ in ways no one else can) is a relief, and can be inspiring. SIRA stresses the fact that we are not alone, and nothing else makes that point as vividly as taking part in an SIRA meeting. All of us are in different stages of recovery, but all of us need validation that what happened was real, and that we are not to blame.

Meetings can definitely be started by survivors who have never been to other 12 step meetings. All SIRA groups are autonomous. There is no one “correct” way to run a meeting. Formats and other decisions – such as the length of meetings- differ from one group to another (see meeting format). If you’ve attended other 12 Step meetings that you like, you can model your SIRA meeting after those. The caring support from other survivors is what makes our meetings what they are – a safe place to come together and share.

As always, take what you like, and leave the rest.

Thinking of Starting a Meeting?

If you’d like to start a meeting here are some tips to help you start the process:

  • It’s usually much easier and maybe even more effective to start a meeting with another survivor. There’s a number of steps you’ll need to take [outlined below] and having 2 or more people sharing the tasks can help enormously. You’ll also benefit from their support as you move through the various requirements of starting and maintaining a successful, ongoing SIRA meeting.

  • Many 12 Step program meetings are held in churches, recovery centers or local offices where monthly fees are quite reasonable. Be sure you can afford the rent as you may need to carry it for a month or two while your meeting gets established.

    Things to consider:

    • low cost

    • easy access from public transportation

    • easy access to the meeting room – no key needed or an attendant on site

    • feels safe for attendees

    • is 12 Step friendly

  • Each meeting has its own name that tells people a bit about it. Morning meetings can be named Sunrise Meeting. Other examples are Keep Coming Back, Keep it Simple or One Day at a Time etc.

  • It can be extremely helpful to visit AA, NA or OA meetings in your area to get an idea of how they are run. Some meetings are open to anyone but others are not – check the meeting list to be sure.

    We suggest you conduct at least 2 mock meetings with just the “founders” to work out any challenges. Practice using the format [*Click Here] this will start you with the simplest format, perhaps a Step Study and build out from there.

  • It is said that the most successful meetings started with at least two people. This creates less of a burden on any one person and provides much needed support in the early days. Starting meetings is a service we do for ourselves and others.

    The secrecy and stigma surrounding sexual assault can make it difficult for folks in need to attend their first meeting. It is crucial that during the first 2- 3 months a founder is at every meeting and ready to start on time. This helps newcomers feel safe and gives the meeting a reliable presence.

    Survivors in Recovery is based on attraction rather than promotion, however flyers placed in common areas of the local community can help folks find you – as can putting the word out there to local hospitals, clinics and therapists.