Preliminary Report – OIAA Cybersuite at the 2025 International Convention, Vancouver

Prepared by the Vancouver Convention Committee
Dated: July 13, 2025

A Global Effort Comes to Life

Six trusted servants from across the globe met in person for the first time in Vancouver to bring the vision of the OIAA Cybersuite to life at the 2025 International Convention. Our core team included:

– Barry – Convention Chair, Houston, TX
– Jan BB – Alternate Chair, Kent, UK
– Ellen S. – Treasurer, Boston, MA
– Blandine – Member, County Down, N. Ireland
– Marcy H. – Member, Washington State
– Susan R. – Member, Elkton, MD

From setup on July 3 through our final guest, we covered over 28 hours of direct hospitality and hosting, often after long travel days. Our suite was alive with connection, laughter, learning—and hope.

Meetings, Milestones, and Magic Moments

We kicked off on July 3 with an 8 AM meeting hosted by Dawn Patrol Online, followed by a 3–5 PM Meet and Greet, celebrating OIAA’s 30th Anniversary.

A 30-year commemorative cake, a T-shirt, and a 30-year coin were presented to our Convention Chair, Barry. Together with Ellen, he blew out the candles in a packed room—standing room only.

This special event was supported by OIAA past trustee Jeff B. and Board Chair Gwen M., who honored us with their presence.

Visibility and Voice at the Convention

For the first time since OIAA hosted its inaugural Cybersuite in 1995, members of the OIAA community were invited to speak at the AA International Convention itself. We presented on AA and the Internet, adhering to AA’s Twelve Traditions and offering practical, spiritual insights on how online AA carries the message.

In addition, we shared in the spirit of unity by actively participating in the meetings hosted by AA in Technology groups, who held their own successful suite for the first time in Vancouver. The collaboration and mutual support strengthened our collective efforts to make online AA visible, accessible, and welcoming.

Engagement and Impact

• 504 guests signed our visitor book, many leaving moving testimonials.
  • Approximately 1800 commemorative pins were distributed, with more to be mailed to members upon request.

• A striking retractable banner was featured at our suite entrance, helping guests identify and engage with OIAA.

• Visitors were greeted by our dedicated service volunteers with pins and information.

• We also ran a looping informational video that introduced guests to OIAA’s mission, virtual services, and global reach.

All outreach materials were designed and produced by Randy C. (Communications Committee) and Susan R., and are now OIAA assets for future events. By conscious decision of the VCC, all products were sourced through Canadian vendors, avoiding import duties and supporting local service providers.

We are pleased to report that we came in approximately $500 under budget.

What They Told Us – In Their Own Words

From our Visitor Book Testimonials:
“I never knew OIAA existed—this suite gave me the connection I’ve needed.”
“The spirit in this room is electric. You’re changing lives.”
“I’m going home with hope. And a pin!”
“Please bring this to our next Convention.”
“Awesome Cyber Suite – well done OIAA!”
“OIAA ROCKS!”
“Thanks for the pin and got going for 30 years!”
“Happy to be here”
“So grateful to be here!! Please keep up all the cool and important service!”
“Mark M. told me to get me ass here!”
“Thanks for all the good things- grateful!”
“Thanks and God bless”
“You guys are life savers!”
“Digital forever!”
“Amelia L. you are with me!”
“Awesome platform to connect!”
“Zoom meetings kept me sane through the pandemic.”
“Thrilled to be here!”
“Thanks for having us!”
“Keep up the good work”
“Thank you for the online meetings – they enhance my sobriety.”
“Beautiful – thank you!”
“Great music and thanks for the laughs!”
“Great show!”
“Thank you for what you do!”
“I’m a happy Zoom baby!”
“Feeling too grateful and thank you for being you!”
“Love this OIAA!”
“Bless you Bear and keep on truckin!”
“Amazing and thank you for your service!”

These heartfelt entries mirror sentiments expressed in the broader tech-based AA hospitality suite hosted alongside us, as reflected in Lew G’s post-convention letter:

“Almost everyone I spoke to had never heard of TIAA, NAATW, OIAA or C4R. It’s not a relevance problem. It’s a visibility problem.”
“This was a spiritual experience of the educational variety.”
“I’ve been looking for something like this.”
“AA needs this—MUST do this.”

Reflections and Forward Motion

Together, we helped raise the visibility of online AA services and virtual platforms. Our Cybersuite became a touchpoint of hope and technology, grounded in spiritual principles and forward-looking service.

We stand ready to continue this work. A full report will be issued after our next VCC meeting on July 20, 2025.

With gratitude and service,
The Vancouver Convention Committee