A less tangible quality leaders talked about that helped create de-escalated spaces was setting the “vibe of the space”—that is, setting the emotional tone as friendly, warm, and inviting. In addition to things as diverse as paint color and grievance processes, another critical suggestion from many harm reduction leaders is to have community ambassadors.

Ideally these are participants, though they can be staff members, who act as greeters and welcomers to the site. These site ambassadors can greet newcomers and explain things like the community agreements, the grievance procedure, and any way the site solicits feedback from participants. They can also welcome folks and generally act as the friendly front of the house.

Harm reduction leaders share that ideal candidates are participants who are naturally friendly and warm. In addition these ambassadors often make excellent eventual employees.