The National Sheriffs' Association has supported local law enforcement in
their efforts to build and encourage local community participation though
Neighborhood Watch. It has been 35 years since National Sheriff's Association
started the National Initiative for Neighborhood Watch. Many things have changed,
grown, and developed throughout those years. Boris the Burglar has grown to
be one of the most identified trademarks throughout the country. Burglaries
and robberies have decreased. Communities have grown along with the roles
and responsibilities of law enforcement. However, the one thing that has contributed
to the success of the program is the willingness of neighbors to help each
other build a better community.
The basic principles behind the neighborhood watch program have been ingrained in much of society for thousands of years. Most Americans at some point or another are encouraged to give back to their community. What better way than to start in their own neighborhood. One of the most important things to a person is feeling safe in their homes and neighborhoods. Neighborhood Watch is one way for a group to feel that safety and develop those links to build a better community.
Five Easy Steps to start a Neighborhood Watch:
- Recruit and Organize as many neighbors as possible
- Contact your local law enforcement agency and schedule a meeting
- Discuss community concerns and develop an action plan
- Hold regular meetings and train
- Implement a phone tree and take action steps
Register for Neighborhood Watch