The purpose of an H&I meeting is to carry the NA message of recovery to addicts who do not have full access to regular Narcotics Anonymous meetings.The format of any particular H&I meeting/presentation may vary from meeting to meeting depending on the type of facility.In short term facilities, the format will be more focused on the panel members carrying a message in to the residents, while at a long term facility we may encourage more participation from the residents.Whatever format is chosen, we normally get the residents involved with a question and answer session at some point in the meeting/presentation.
In our experience, it is best for members to have three months clean before attending an H&I meeting, and six months clean before speaking at one. It is not important whether or not we have been in a similar facility ourselves. Anyone with a clear and consistent Narcotics Anonymous message who is willing to share is well suited for H&I work.
DO'S & DON'TS
DO'SDo - Make directories of outside meetings available to residents.
Do - Clarify the rules with whomever you bring into the facility.
Do - Start and end on time!
Do - Emphasize that NA recovery is available to all addicts regardless if drugs used.
Do - Clearly state that Narcotics Anonymous is separate from the facility and from other fellowships.
Do - Involve residents with the meeting, especially those in long term facilities (readings, etc.).
Do - Obey the dress code, exercise common sense.
Do - Screen all panel members, speakers, and chairpersons.
Do - Attempt to get all agreements in writing
Do - Adhere to the security regulations at all times.
Do - Ensure that a clear NA message of recovery is carried by all panel members.
DON'TS!Don't - Attend H&I facilities alone.
Don't - Emphasize "using days" while sharing an NA message of recovery.
Don't - Give anyone within the facility your address or telephone number.
Don't - Use excessive profanity
Don't - Break another person's anonymity.
Don't - Debate any issues involving facility rules, regulations, programs, or other felowships.
Don't - Get involved in discussions on outside issues, remember why we are there.
Don't - Discuss conditions within the facility.
Don't - Discuss facility staff members with inmate(s).
Don't - Wear flashy jewelry and don't carry excessive cash.
Don't - Show favoritism to any resident(s).
Don't - Take messages or carry letters in or out of the facility.
Don't - Bring an NA member who has friends and/or family in the facility.
Don't - Ask what type of crime an inmate has ben convicted of, or discuss guilt or innocence.
Don't - Accept money or gifts from, or give money or gifts to any inmate.
We hope these excerpts have been of help. For more detailed information, refer to the Hospitals & Institutions Handbook. If you have questions or need more information, please contact the WSO H&I Project Coordinator at the World Service Office: PO Box 9999, Van Nuys, CA 91409 or call (818) 773-9999.