Yes’m - Friday brew drinkers always count.
Almost every city has a beer brewers club.
Avoid them for one year. Most of the members are too busy trying to impress newbies than help them.
They are, however, very good help after you know what you are doing.
Go to your beer supply store and ask them for some names of guys who have just started. Call them for help. Ask them to watch while they make a batch. Best way to learn.