Camden Courier-Post article dated September 23, 1941
Alcoholics Anonymous to Aid Sincere Persons Desiring to Break Habit
A local group of Alcoholics Anonymous is being formed in Camden to be of service in the South Jersey area. “Alcoholics Anonymous” is an association of men who have determined to do something about the drink habit. The group has headquarters in New York and many branches in cities throughout the country.
The group in Philadelphia was formed with the assistance of many persons in South Jersey. The time has come, spokesmen said, when the work in Philadelphia has expanded to the extent that work in South Jersey was suffering.
The purpose of this group is to assist those who have made a start in conquering alcoholic tendencies to continue, and to aid and assist others who have reached a point where alcohol has mastered them, to master alcohol.
There is a definite program to be followed which has proven very successful. The first step necessary before any one can receive help is the intense desire to stop drinking and acknowledgment that they need help. Other steps follow in order. Anyone with the problem of alcoholism, either with themselves or a relative or friend, can write Alcoholics Anonymous c-o Camden Courier-Post.
The program is not in any respect a cure and does not involve any financial obligation. The reward is gained by continued abstinence of the members of A.A. and those who are aided in their battle against drunkenness.
The group in Camden plans to establish a retreat where persons sincerely desirous of stopping may be taken for a short period in order to help them make the first few steps. A committee of prominent residents in the area, who are not alcoholics but are interested in the work have agreed to act as associate members and as a committee to help in establishing this retreat and lend their moral support to the work.