About the Group

“…there is a bit of good in the worst of us and a bit of bad in the best of us; that we are all children of God and we each have a right to be here.”

The Bit by Bit Group was founded on the belief that recovery is a gradual, steady process—one step at a time. Our name comes from a passage on page 417 of the Big Book, in the story Acceptance Is the Answer.

Our group is rooted in the spirit of acceptance, inclusion, and unity. We read from A.A. literature, listen to speakers, and share experience, strength, and hope in open discussion.

Like all A.A. groups, we follow the Twelve Traditions. We place our common welfare first, and we are committed to providing a safe and welcoming space for anyone who walks through the door.

BBG Meeting Info

When: Tuesdays, 6:00 P.M. – 7:00 P.M.

Where: 318 Harvard St #11, Brookline MA

What: Open, Literature Speaker Discussion

Each week, the BBG Chair (who also serves as the Lead) selects a Conference-approved piece of A.A. literature to read aloud. After the reading, the Chair shares their experience, strength, and hope, connecting the passage to their own recovery journey.

Following the lead, the group reflects together—sharing our own experiences, strengths, and hopes inspired by the reading and discussion.

Whether you’re attending your first A.A. meeting or have been in recovery for years, you are welcome here.

“True ambition is the desire to Live usefully & Walk humbly under the grace of God.”

-The Twelve steps & TwelvE traditions

Meeting Format

Opening

The Chair begins with a moment of silence, followed by the AA Preamble and introductions.

Lead (Reading + Share)

The Chair or designated Lead selects a reading from AA-approved literature, reads it aloud, and shares their experience—what life was like before AA, what happened, and what life is like now in recovery.

Discussion

Attendees are invited to share in response to the reading and the Lead’s story. We follow a round-robin format. If you prefer not to share, simply say “pass.”

Pause for the Cause: 7th Tradition

In keeping with AA’s 7th Tradition, we pause to pass the basket. Contributions are appreciated but never required—your presence is what matters most.

Chips for Sobriety

Our Chipmunk (chip distributor) recognizes sobriety milestones with coins for various lengths of sobriety:

Ninth Step Promises

A volunteer reads the 9th Step Promises.

Burning Desires + Last Thoughts

The floor is reopened for anyone with a Burning Desire—an urgent need to share—or for closing reflections.

Closing Prayer

The Chair ends the meeting with a prayer of their choice, often the Serenity Prayer, 3rd Step Prayer, 11th Step Prayer, or the Lord’s Prayer.

Attendance & Court Verifications

If you need verification of attendance, please speak to a member before or after the meeting, or email us at welcome@bitbybitaa.com.

BBG Meeting SPACE

BBG meets at Barlette. While this is a bar during regular business hours, we use the space only during off-hours when the establishment is closed to the public. Absolutely no alcohol will be served or available at any time. This arrangement allows us to provide a safe, quiet, and comfortable meeting space in the heart of Brookline.

Service is an important part of recovery. Members are encouraged to take part by chairing a meeting, greeting newcomers, or helping with setup. Special announcements, such as group anniversaries or events, will be posted here.

View on Google Maps

  • Barlette is located in Coolidge Corner and is easily accessible by public transportation.

    Take the train: Green Line-C Branch to Coolidge Corner.

    Once you’re off the T, take a short walk to arrive at Barlette, Ste 11, 318 Harvard St, just inside the Arcade Building.

  • Limited street parking is available nearby. A parking lot is also located behind the Arcade Building with paid metered parking (Centre Street lot).

  • Our meeting space is fully wheelchair accessible.