## Ten Ways to Create Protected, Community Support Spaces
Source URL:: <https://diversity.ncsu.edu/news/2021/04/23/ten-ways-to-create-protected-community-support-spaces/>
### Highlights
> [!quote]+ %%Updated on Mon Oct 23 2023 11:45:00 GMT-0400%%
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> Be explicit about the purpose of the space (mental health support, community dialogue, etc.) to reduce miscommunication and unintentional negative impact; identify the intended audience and communicate that information clearly;
>Identify specific needs (accessibility, translation, etc.) that your community/audience may have; in planning, questions like “What may prevent someone in our community from participating?” can help identify these needs;
>Assess organizational and personnel limitations and capacity to hold events or listening sessions. When necessary, leverage partnerships with other units—particularly those that frequently host support and care spaces;
>Remember that “processing” can take a variety of forms. Consider creating care spaces that incorporate techniques like journaling, artistic response, meditation and reflection, movement, etc.
>Smaller, more intimate, opportunities for dialogues often provide more meaningful, protected space and care options—particularly for individuals most directly affected by major incidents and events;
>Group interactions and discussions focused on impact situations can initiate trauma responses from individuals directly or indirectly impacted. Ensure that your space has adequate support for that possibility; when appropriate, use “trigger warnings”; describe content that some may find difficult before presenting it;
>Consider providing Counseling Center and/or Faculty and Staff Assistance Program (FASAP) counselor support during and/or afterwards. Please contact either resource directly to determine availability and personnel capacity to meet your group’s needs;
>Provide clear expectations for the space and offer “ways to engage” guidance for “allies” that support the expressed needs of individuals most directly affected;
>Take precautions to protect virtual spaces and avoid harmful disruptions (e.g., Zoom raids);
>Provide additional resource options including, but not limited to, suicide prevention information, survivor support and external community-based affinity organizations.