Dear Impact Hub Community,

Our team has been continually monitoring the public health landscape and best practices over the past several weeks. As COVID-19 cases rise in Maryland, we are amplifying our attention on keeping our community and city healthy and safe.

We recognize the serious nature of the current situation, while also acknowledging that the important work people do in our space everyday contributes to the health and wellbeing of our city over the long-term. For the time being, our coworking operations will continue so that the entrepreneurs and grassroots organizations can continue to operate and advance their missions. Our practices and policies will be reviewed on a weekly basis, and are subject to change in response to guidance from public health agencies, as well as recommendations from other Baltimore community spaces and peers in the Impact Hub Global Network.

The Impact Hub team has been implementing prevention practices to minimize the risk to our membership, teams, and guests. In addition to daily and weekly cleaning practices, we are taking these additional precautions:  

• Using commercial-grade disinfectant on a daily basis to wipe down door handles, refrigerator doors, reel cords, railings, tables, kitchen equipment, and other high-contact surfaces 
• Running all dishes through the dishwasher at high heat for disinfection
• Posting signs throughout the space with reminders on handwashing and hygiene
• Postponing large gatherings in March and April [note: SOCAP365 rescheduled to June 25]

Each of us plays an important role in keeping our community safe and healthy. We have a responsibility not only to our work and our missions, but also to each other. We strongly encourage all members and guests to follow these practices (from the CDC):

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
• Avoid contact with people who are sick
• Avoid close personal contact such as handshakes and hugs
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
• Stay home if you are sick or experiencing symptoms (fever, cough, shortness of breath)
• Notify the Impact Hub team in the event of COVID-19 exposure of any participants 

Further, we recognize that many independent creatives and freelancers may be especially impacted during this time and encourage you to check out this great resource listing (here). We will continue to add to these resources in our recurring newsletter as opportunities within our networks unfold. 

Now more than ever, please be safe, check in with one another, and offer your support to small local businesses that make up our thriving city.

Best regards and stay healthy!

– Your Impact Hub Baltimore Team