April 2026 Bulletin
The Service board is looking for a new manager.
Apply here for the office manager job
The big news, and it is big, is that we are updating the website.
Now, whenever you renovate the house while people are still walking through the halls, a few doors stick, a few lights flicker, and something that worked yesterday suddenly decides it has other plans. So yes, as we make this move, there will be places where things do not work quite right while we track down errors, test new systems, and get everything settled into place. We ask for a little patience while we sort it all out.
This update is not just about appearance. It is about access, clarity, and connection.
Groups will now have more control over submitting birthdays, meeting information, and event details. By adding contact information for groups, it also becomes much easier for members and visitors to connect directly with the people behind those meetings. To get account access, groups can contact the Central Office.
Committees are also getting dedicated update pages. That means, when contact information has been provided, members will be able to reach committees directly from those pages instead of chasing information across half the city and three conversations.
The real purpose behind all of this is simple: to make information easier to find, to strengthen the connection between the Greater New Orleans Service Board and the groups, and to help the groups connect more easily with one another.
A better website, in this case, is not just a better tool. It is a better way to serve.
Service Board Notes & News
Full minutes
Highlights
January minutes were reviewed and approved.
Total funds across all accounts are $74,532.55, with a prudent reserve of $35,117.59 and an operations account balance of $21,287.48.
Financial outlook has improved significantly from the original projected year-end loss.
Office procedures have returned to normal, and volunteers are currently needed for Central Office.
The website and bulletin are being redesigned to make information easier to find and improve navigation.
Plans are underway to move office operations, including Square POS, onto one integrated platform.
Big Deep South has 244 pre-registrations so far, the hotel’s second payment is complete, and the website is live.
The latest Big Deep South fundraiser raised $386, and speakers and workshops are confirmed.
DAAY in the Park costs have grown beyond sustainability, and options are being explored to make it self-supporting or shift it toward fundraising.
Budget and Finance reported the current year-to-date loss at $8,000, a marked improvement over last year’s $26,000 loss.
District 19 announced its new meeting location at St. Matthews in Metairie and shared details for the March 28 Principles Workshop.
Groups were asked to discuss whether the Service Board is effectively fulfilling its purpose and bring feedback to the next meeting.
Central Office Report
Outreach Efforts with Oxford House
Central Office has partnered with Oxford House to increase awareness of the role, services, and benefits Central Office provides to individuals in recovery throughout the Greater New Orleans area. Recognizing that many people in recovery have demanding schedules that can make visiting Central Office difficult, we have developed a pop-up outreach initiative to bring resources directly into the community.
This month, we held our first successful pop-up event. Building on that momentum, we plan to return monthly with additional information and literature that Oxford House residents can share with newcomers beginning their recovery journey. These visits are designed to make valuable resources and support more accessible to those who need them.
Literature Pricing Update
Due to recent price increases from Alcoholics Anonymous World Services, the cost of literature has gone up. Central Office has worked carefully to keep our pricing competitive with major online retailers and big box stores. Our goal is to make Central Office the preferred local source for literature by providing convenient access while continuing to support the recovery community.
Office Manager Search Update
Central Office is actively seeking a new Office Manager to support its ongoing operations. We extend our sincere gratitude to Mary C. for her dedicated work over the past month, which has been deeply appreciated by the entire team.
Anyone interested in the position is encouraged to submit a resume by email to mailto: gnoserviceboard@gmail.com. During this transition, Central Office remains open and fully operational thanks to the support of our committed volunteers and Service Board Trustees. Their help has ensured that services continue uninterrupted while the search for a new Office Manager moves forward.
Service Board Report
A motion to launch and publish the new website and bulletin blog passed with substantial unanimity.
The February meeting minutes are now available on the website.
Please also look for the new Central Office Friends letter included with this bulletin.
Big Deep South Report
Event Registration and Updates
Thanks to the collective efforts of the committee, preregistration for the upcoming event has reached 270 attendees. In addition, all available room blocks have now been fully booked.
Event merchandise is available for purchase through the official website, and attendees are encouraged to order early. Please note that the Southern Comfort Buffet Dinner has limited availability. To avoid missing out, dinner reservations should be made as soon as possible.
