How to Organize a Neighborhood Watch Program

The Neighborhood Watch Program is an effective way for communities to partner with local law enforcement agencies to ensure everyone's safety. Follow these steps to implement a program in your town.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Neighborhood map
• Neighborhood Watch signs
• Fliers
• Sign-up sheet
• Meeting place
• Agenda

Plan the Initial Neighborhood Watch Meeting

1. Form a committee of neighbors to organize the first meeting.

2. Contact local law enforcement agencies to secure a Crime Prevention Officer to speak at the meeting.

3. Find a location for the meeting. Community centers, churches or local businesses are good places to start.

4. Make a list of issues important to the community. Compile data regarding crime rates and statistics for your neighborhood.

5. Create an agenda for the Neighborhood Watch meeting.

6. Publicize the meeting throughout the community, using fliers, telephone trees, door-to-door canvassing or email

Stage the Initial Neighborhood Watch Meeting

1. Provide a sign-up sheet for residents to pledge their involvement.

2. Map out the neighborhood, with the addresses and contact information of participants.

3. Involve community leaders, local churches and business professionals. They can speak at meetings and donate their services, like fliers or refreshments.

4. Purchase Neighborhood Watch signs. Some jurisdictions require a minimum number of watch participants.

5. Set up a schedule for regular meetings.

Tips & Warnings

• Organize a regular schedule of Neighborhood Watch meetings.

• Involve shut-ins or elderly neighbors; they can keep tabs on neighborhood activities from their homes.