RCM and Alt RCM
The Regional Committee Member (RCM) position for GMTANA is essentially the communication link and representative between the Area and the regional service structure. The role focuses on carrying information, concerns, and group conscience back and forth between the local Area and the broader NA service community. Clean time requirement for this position is 3 years.
Core Purpose
The RCM helps ensure that the Area stays connected to regional and zonal NA service by representing the Area’s voice, sharing information, and participating in broader service discussions and decisions.
What the RCM Actually Does
Represents the Area at the Regional Level
One of the primary responsibilities is attending regional service meetings and participating on behalf of the Area:
- Attending Volunteer Regional Service Committee (VRSC) meetings
- Participating in discussions and decision-making
- Presenting the Area’s group conscience
- Acting as the voice of GMTANA within the regional service body
The RCM serves as the Area’s representative in the larger NA service structure.
Brings Information Back to the Area
The RCM is also responsible for keeping the Area informed about what is happening regionally by:
- Providing reports after regional meetings
- Sharing important actions, discussions, and decisions
- Distributing regional meeting minutes
- Explaining how regional matters may affect the Area
This helps ensure that groups and trusted servants remain informed and connected.
Maintains Communication Between Service Bodies
The role acts as an ongoing bridge between the Area and Region by:
- Communicating agenda items and concerns to the region
- Carrying feedback and information in both directions
- Helping coordinate participation in regional and zonal events
The RCM helps maintain consistency and cooperation between different levels of NA service.
Participates in Broader NA Service
The position also includes involvement beyond the local Area through:
- Attendance at Southern Zonal Forum meetings and applicable events
- Participation in larger discussions affecting NA as a whole
- Staying informed about regional and zonal service efforts
Provides Planning and Accountability
The RCM is expected to:
- Attend meetings consistently
- Submit written reports regularly
- Prepare a projected annual budget for travel and service-related expenses
- Maintain accountability to the Area they represent
Supports Leadership Development
The RCM is also responsible for helping prepare future trusted servants by:
- Training the Alternate RCM
- Sharing knowledge about regional service processes and responsibilities
Skills That Matter Most
Someone effective in this role usually demonstrates:
- Strong communication skills
- Reliability and consistency
- Ability to listen and represent others fairly
- Comfort speaking in meetings
- Organizational skills
- Understanding of NA service structure and traditions
- Ability to summarize and relay information clearly
What the Role Looks Like in Practice
In practice, the RCM is often:
- Traveling to regional meetings
- Listening to discussions and debates
- Reporting information back to the Area
- Answering questions about regional issues
- Carrying Area concerns to the region
- Reviewing minutes and agendas
- Acting as a connection point between service bodies
Alt RCM
- 2 year commitment: first as Alt RCM and second as RCM (automatically becomes RCM when the RCM’s term is over)
- Assists in RCM duties
- Acts as RCM if RCM is unavailable
- 2 year clean time requirement