7th Tradition
Every OA group ought to be fully self-supporting, declining outside contributions.
Your contributions helps make sure there is a place for compulsive eaters to meet and share their recovery.
Many churches and other establishments are generous in providing meeting room space, however, they do charge nominal rent to cover their heating/air conditioning, housekeeping and other operating costs.
Your donation also goes toward covering the purchase of supplies, literature and any group workshops or special events.
When OA was established in 1960, the suggested donation was $1. A candy bar was a nickel. Stamps were 3 cents. $5,000 bought a luxury automobile. Times have changed. A dollar will not buy as much as it did then. A donation of $5 or more for each meeting is suggested, however, there are no dues or fees to participate.
After each group has met their expenses and put aside a Prudent Reserve, it is suggested that the remainder be distributed to OA service bodies:
50% Goes to your Intergroup
Intergroups are OA service bodies which provides services (web sites, telephone call lines) to the OA groups in their geographic area.
To help with the calculations you may wish to use the 7th Tradition Worksheet (MS Excel).
40% to the World Service Office
The WSO provides services to newcomers, prepares and distributes OA literature, creates Lifeline and hosts conventions and conferences to carry the message.
10% to Region 3
To make a contribution by mail or online:
If you have questions, contact the Region 3 Treasurer at [email protected].
2026 Annual Appeal Video
It’s Here! Watch the 2026 Annual Appeal Video and Read the Appeal Letter at Your Meetings The OA Board of Trustees wants you to know that OA’s 2026 Annual Appeal has begun! Below, we even have a special video message from OA’s new Managing Director, Rich Valdez. We invite you to watch the message and support our Annual Appeal. Need subtitles in your language? Use the settings gear in the video control panel.
2026 Annal Appeal videoGroups can do their part by reading https://oa.org/documents/2026-annual-appeal-instructions-and-letter/ aloud in their meetings for one month. See the instructions and suggestions attached to the letter. You can also access the letter and the video through the following link: https://oa.org/recovery-resource-library/ by selecting the “Seventh Tradition” category. To submit your contribution, visit oa.org/contribute or find the QR code and mailing address provided in the Annual Appeal letter. Thank you for reading this letter at your meeting and supporting our initiatives to carry the message worldwide!
