In Spring 2024, Giselle Rocha and I heard that You Belong Here (YBH) was closing. We were fans of Nic Roc, Founder of You Belong Here and the space she cultivated. We had held meetings and events in the space for our various community roles over the years and enjoyed the warm atmosphere and hospitality that Nic offered. Giselle and I are artists who have experienced struggles in finding accessible and affordable space to do our work, gather, and be in community with others. We also have friends and colleagues who have discussed how difficult it is to find space in San Diego to convene and feel supported in their work. We were sad that a welcoming, community space like You Belong Here was closing. 

We spoke to Nic at one of You Belong Here’s last events and we were surprised that at the time very few had expressed interest in leasing the space. We immediately were interested in learning more about YBH’s business model and the process for leasing the space. We had limited time to make a decision, but Giselle and I knew that the space was worth pursuing. We were already excited just thinking about possible co-working, collaborations, programs, and community focused gatherings that could be held in the space. In six weeks, after much conversation, paperwork, and some (joyful and terrified) tears heARTSpace was born! We consider ourselves one of the last businesses that was created through the support of Nic and You Belong Here at 3619 El Cajon Blvd. We are just beginning this journey called heARTSpace, but we feel very thankful for our community and supporters so far!