Where will we host our peer support group? This is one of many questions that will inevitably come up, when an individual or community decides to start a peer support group.

If you are starting a peer support group, here are three things to consider prior to starting your search for the perfect space:

1)   Consider what your group will require in a meeting space! For example, consider asking some of the following questions, prior to choosing a space:

• How many people will the space accommodate (and  can it support growth)?
• How safe will group members feel coming to the space?
• How close will the space be to public transit (and parking)?
• How accessible will the space be (i.e. wheel chair accessible, etc.)?
• How much privacy will the space provide (and what is the noise level)?
• How will the space accommodate your group’s technical needs (power sockets, etc.)
• How aesthetically pleasing is the space (it’s a simple thing, but ambiance can go a long way towards making people feel comfortable in a space, and thus in the group)?

2)  Consider a variety of places for your meeting space! You can host your meetings in variety of places. This can include City Hall , your local YMCA , your local  library,   or even a local non-profit (you can visit Charity Village to find a listing of local non-profits). For more tips on how to find a meeting space, please visit MeetUp.com.

3)  Consider finding an organization or business to sponsor your meeting space! Community sponsors are local organizations, businesses or brands that you can build a mutually beneficial relationship with. Sponsors can either provide you with a free space or partly cover your groups meeting dues. MeetUp.com has some great tips for finding and approaching potential sponsors.