NBM 8 Sunlight IG WSBC Conventions

NBM 8  

Move that OA Virtual Region Submit the following motion to World Service Business Conference 2026.

SUBMITTED BY:

OA Sunlight Intergroup

For the motion maker’s contact details, please email secretary@oavirtualregion.org

INTENT: Please see the “intent” section in the motion that follows.

IMPLEMENTATION: Submit motion to World Service Office. 

COST: $0

PRIMARY PURPOSE: Please see the “How Does This Motion Support OA’s Primary Purpose” section in the motion that follows.

RATIONALE:   Please see the “Rationale” section in the motion that follows.

PROPOSED OA NEW BUSINESS MOTION

MOTION: Move to amend World Service Business Conference Policy 1984b by striking and inserting as follows:

 

CURRENT WORDING

World Service Business Conference Policy 1984b

It was adopted that:

The World Service Convention will be held at a time and place to be determined by the Board of Trustees.

PROPOSED WORDING

World Service Business Conference Policy 1984b

It was adopted that:

The World Service Convention will be held at a time and place to be determined by the Board of Trustees.

In years when the World Service Business Conference is held Virtually, a Region will sponsor, on a rotating basis, a Virtual World Service Convention, which all members are encouraged to attend.

Additionally, in-person World Service Conventions will be scheduled at a time and place determined by the Board of Trustees.

SUBMITTED BY:

OA Virtual Region

INTENT  

This motion seeks to establish a recurring Virtual World Service Convention every two years, building upon the proven success of large-scale virtual events within several Regions of OA including the Virtual Region. By creating a consistent, global gathering, this convention will provide a space for members from all countries and languages to connect, share their experience, strength, and hope, and deepen their recovery beyond the Region level.  

IMPLEMENTATION  

An assigned Region will oversee the planning and execution of the convention, forming a dedicated committee responsible for logistics, programming, and multilingual accessibility. Utilizing proven virtual event platforms, the committee will ensure seamless participation across time zones and languages, providing live translations (as far as practicable), recordings, and interactive engagement tools to maximize inclusivity.  

COST  

Costs will primarily cover platform hosting, technical support, translation services, and promotional efforts. These expenses will be offset by voluntary contributions, possible registration fees, and potential fundraising initiatives, ensuring financial sustainability while keeping the convention accessible to all members.  

HOW DOES THIS MOTION SUPPORT OA’S PRIMARY PURPOSE?  

This motion directly supports OA’s primary purpose by creating a unique opportunity for members worldwide to engage in fellowship, strengthen their recovery, and carry the message to those who still suffer. By offering an accessible and inclusive space for connection and service, this convention fosters unity and extends the reach of OA beyond local and regional levels.  

RATIONALE  

  1. Expanding Global Fellowship: Overeaters Anonymous is a worldwide fellowship, yet many members, especially those in remote or underrepresented areas, lack opportunities for large-scale engagement. A Virtual World Service Convention held every two years provides a consistent and structured space where members from diverse backgrounds can connect, share their journeys, and find support beyond their immediate communities. This event fosters a greater sense of unity and belonging within OA as a whole.
  2. Proven Success of Virtual Events: The Virtual Region amongst others has demonstrated that large virtual gatherings can be effectively executed and highly beneficial for members. Previous virtual conventions and workshops have successfully brought together hundreds of participants, proving that technology can bridge distances and create meaningful connections. This motion builds on that success, ensuring that a well-organized and engaging event becomes a regular part of OA’s global offering.
  3. Overcoming Barriers to Participation: Traditional in-person conventions often present financial and logistical challenges, including travel, lodging, and accessibility concerns. A virtual format eliminates these barriers, making it easier for members with financial constraints, disabilities, or caregiving responsibilities to participate. Additionally, multilingual support will ensure that more members can engage fully, regardless of their primary language.
  4. Strengthening Recovery and Service: A global World Service Convention offers members opportunities for deeper learning, recovery, and service. Workshops, speaker panels, and interactive sessions will provide fresh perspectives on OA principles, strengthening individual recovery and inspiring greater participation in service roles. The event will also serve as a platform to train and encourage future trusted servants within the fellowship.
  5. Enhancing OA’s Reach and Impact: By creating a World Wide Virtual World Service Convention, OA reinforces its commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. This motion ensures that the message of recovery continues to reach members worldwide, providing a vital space for connection and growth that aligns with OA’s core mission. A recurring convention will not only support existing members but also create opportunities to welcome newcomers, broadening OA’s impact on a global scale.