"Con" Keogh, a Roman Catholic priest, and psychiatric patients who sought help with their mental illness in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA).
Much of Grow's initial development was made possible with support from Orval Hobart Mowrer, Reuben F. Scarf, W. Clement Stone and Lions Clubs International.
Grow members view recovery as an ongoing philosophy of life rather than an outcome and are encouraged to continue following the Steps after completing them in order to maintain their mental health.
[7] A longitudinal study of Grow membership found time involved in the program correlated with increased autonomy, environmental mastery, personal Growth, self-acceptance and social skills.
[9] Statistical evaluations of interviews with Grow members found they identified self-reliance, industriousness, peer support, and gaining a sense of personal value or self-esteem as the essential ingredients of recovery.