The "Big Book" entitled "Alcoholics Anonymous" is the basic text that presents the A.A. 12-Step program of Recovery from alcoholism. Though the words "sponsor" and "sponsorship" are often heard in A.A. circles, the word "sponsor" does not appear anywhere in the book (go ahead, try to find it!). Nonetheless, the Basic Text emphasizes "carrying the message" to still-suffering alcoholics - in fact, several chapters are devoted to this vitally-important and often misunderstood subject. The purpose of these writings is to "eschew obfuscation", that is, to make the meaning clear - eliminate confusion.

This is from The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language 4th ed.: spon·sor (spŏnsər) noun.
1. One who assumes responsibility for another person or a group during a period of instruction, apprenticeship, or probation.
2. One who vouches for the suitability of a candidate for admission.
3. A legislator who proposes and urges adoption of a bill.
4. One who presents a candidate for baptism or confirmation; a godparent.
5. One that finances a project or an event carried out by another person or group, especially a business enterprise that pays for radio or television programming in return for advertising time.

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