Looking for an alternative event venue for your non profit or community event? We are currently investigating the use of a high school for a client’s membership event. It’s non traditional, for sure. But, it offers the breakouts (classrooms), general session (auditorium), and parking we need. If you can get the school administration to agree, it will generate much needed revenue for them and offer you a cost effective solution.

Another option? Many cities have recently built “mega” churches designed to accommodate hundreds of people. The facilities often have rooms available for use as breakouts, kitchen facilities and — in one case I know, even an in house Starbucks! Plus, they are usually available during the week. Again, it is an unusual partnership but one that could definitely be a win win.

— Carol Galle, CMP