What is VSCYPAA?
VSCYPAA stands for Virginia State Conference of Young People in Alcoholics Anonymous. We are a conference for young people in recovery from alcoholism and addiction, bringing together individuals from across the region who are actively pursuing sobriety and building lives of meaning and purpose.
The Conference Experience
VSCYPAA 2026 is a 3-day event where young people in recovery gather to:
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Connect with Others – Meet hundreds of other young people who are on the same journey. Find your people, your support system, and lifelong friends.
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Learn and Grow – Attend workshops, panels, and seminars led by experienced members of AA. Topics cover everything from sponsorship and the steps to career, relationships, mental health, and living a meaningful life in recovery.
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Own Your Recovery – Party, have fun, and celebrate being alive and sober. This isn't a stuffy conference, it's a celebration.
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Strengthen Your Foundation – Deepen your understanding of the 12 Steps and 12 Traditions of Alcoholics Anonymous through shared experience and discussion.
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Be Part of a Movement – Join a thriving community of young people proving that recovery is possible, that life gets better, and that young people can lead the way.
Who Should Attend?
VSCYPAA is for young people and the young at heart, there is no age limit. If your spirit is young and you're in recovery, you belong here.
Specifically, VSCYPAA is for:
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Young people in their teens, 20s, 30s, 40s, and beyond
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Anyone with any length of sobriety (one day or one year or twenty years)
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People actively working a recovery program
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Young people curious about AA and recovery
You don't need to be a "regular" at AA meetings or have everything figured out. If you're in recovery (or considering it) and want to connect with others doing the same, VSCYPAA is for you.
What to Expect
The conference includes:
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Workshops & Panels – Multiple tracks running simultaneously covering recovery, personal growth, service, relationships, careers, mental health, spirituality, and more
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Speakers & Talks – Hear from people who have worked the steps, stayed sober, and built amazing lives
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Social Events – Dances, parties, game nights, and hangouts (all sober, all fun)
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Meetings – AA meetings throughout the day, led by young people
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Merchandise & Fun – Conference T-shirts, hats, and branded gear to take home
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Networking & Connection – Quiet spaces, group activities, and organic opportunities to meet people and build friendships
The Vibe
VSCYPAA is:
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Diverse & Inclusive – VSCYPAA represents the real world. Different races, religions, genders, sexual orientations, abilities, and backgrounds, all united in recovery. No matter your background, identity, or story, you belong here.
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Sober & Safe – This is an alcohol and drug-free zone.
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Fun – We take recovery seriously, but we don't take ourselves seriously!
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Judgment-Free – Everyone here is on their own path. No gatekeeping, no hierarchy, just people supporting people.
Accessibility
We are committed to providing accommodations for all attendees, including wheelchair accessibility, dietary accommodations, sensory-friendly spaces, and more. Please note any accessibility needs during registration.