What is a delegate?

A delegate is a COSA group member who is chosen by their group to represent their meeting at the International Biannual Delegate Meeting. When a group participates in COSA as a whole by sending a delegate to the Biannual Delegate Meeting, they help the ISO understand and serve the group's needs. Sharing experience, strength, and hope with other meetings, the ability to apply the spiritual principles of the Twelve Steps, Twelve Traditions, and Twelve Concepts deepens for everyone.

What do Delegates do?

  • Relays information from the board to the meeting members so the group can determine how they want the delegate to vote on items presented at the Delegate meeting. 
  • Attend the Biannual Delegate Meeting and represent their home group.
  • Vote on items at the Biannual Delegate Meeting according to the group’s group conscience

Who can be a Delegate?

  • It is suggested that delegates have a minimum of one year in the COSA program.
  • If all of the group members who plan to represent your meeting have less than one year in COSA, a group conscience decision may waive that requirement.

How long do delegates serve?
Delegates serve a maximum of three two-year terms. This provides for rotation of service that is crucial to our program and our recovery.

How do delegates prepare for the Biannual Delegate Meeting?

  • Update your meeting’s information on the Meetings page to include your contact information and delegate status.
  • Register for the Biannual Delegate Meeting when registration opens. If you are a new delegate, email the delegate liaison at DelegateLiaison@cosa-recovery.org to confirm you’re on the distribution list.
  • Read the Delegate Meeting Guide Documents found on the Biannual Delegate Meeting page.
  • Attend  meetings throughout the year to learn what the COSA Board and Board committees are working on for the benefit of the fellowship. These meetings give delegates an opportunity to ask the board questions and to offer feedback from their groups. This exchange of information keeps our fellowship connected throughout the year. These meetings help delegates understand what occurs before, during, and after the Biannual Delegate Meeting. 
  • Become familiar with items to be voted on at the Biannual Delegate Meeting and work with your group to determine their group conscience regarding all matters. This includes Literature in Development, budget-related Items, new and returning board candidates, and sometimes a business proposal. This information is available on the Biannual Delegate Meeting page of the website.

Q. What was covered in prior one-hour informal delegate meetings?  
A. As examples, here are the recordings from August 2023: Convention & Outreach (Audio link) & October 2023 Topic: Literature Committee (Audio link)

Q. How do I join in?
A. All informal delegate meetings are online. The specific times and links are available by emailing DelegateLiaison@cosa-recovery.org

Q. Can I come to the meetings even if I’m not a delegate?
A. Yes, everyone is welcome at the informal delegate meetings.