The pandemic has brought about many challenging changes, yet through this adversity the World Service Office (WSO) Staff has identified a positive opportunity. As we continue navigating through 2020, we want to share with you this helpful change in process at the WSO.

As a result of staffing assessments this year, we realized having a live receptionist to answer and direct all incoming calls was not the most efficient use of our members’ contributions to the WSO. We researched technology that would provide cost-efficient alternatives while maintaining WSO standards of service to the fellowship. In the process, we discovered that a simply configured, automated reception phone system would achieve our goals.

What this means to you is that starting December 7th, 2020, members calling our main number— (757) 563-1600—will be greeted with a more efficient, direct dial experience. Members will now have the opportunity to reach the team they need directly! Importantly, members will also be offered the option to speak with a live person if they prefer. This change will have no impact on the WSO toll-free meeting line which continues to be answered by Staff available to support members and newcomers with finding a meeting.

We are grateful and excited about the opportunity to turn challenge into benefit and wanted to share our enthusiasm with you! We look forward to the opportunity to be of continued service.