NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH

AN OUNCE OF PREVENTION

        Neighborhood Watch, Block Clubs,—whatever the title, this initiative is one of the most effective ways to prevent crime and address the safety of our homes, children and elderly.

        In 1972, the National Sheriffs’ Association created a model program for today’s Neighborhood Watch. It was recognized that communities able to secure the assistance of their residents in observing, recognizing and reporting suspicious or criminal activities were better able to keep the burglary rate down and reduce other crimes. Today, Neighborhood Watch is the largest single organized crime prevention project in the nation.

        Neighborhood Watch groups build strong bonds among residents and create a sense of community and pride.

        A Neighborhood Watch program can also be the springboard for many other efforts such as improving neighborhood conditions including youth recreation, child care, economic development, senior citizen activities and community beautification .

BENEFITS OF NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH

1.  Deters criminal activity

2.  Creates a sense of security and reduces fear of crime;

3.  Builds bonds with neighbors and stimulates neighborhood awareness;

4.  Instructs residents on how to observe and report suspicious activities;

5.  Addresses quality of life issues and interests in the community.

CRIME PREVENTION SURVEY

        The National Crime Prevention Council, with support from ADT Securities Services, Inc. recently released their first national crime prevention survey: “Are We Safe?” The survey reports that three out of ten surveyed reported that violence is a major problem or something of a problem in the neighborhood where they live, work or shop.

        Although fear or uneasiness about crime is extensive, many adults are ready, willing and able to become active in their neighborhood.

GETTING STARTED

SURVEY the neighborhood residents and business people and ask them about their concerns, interest and willingness to work for their neighborhood.

SEEK guidance, assistance, and information from existing community organizations, and experienced community activist.

DEVELOP a strategic plan  Identify community concerns and establish priorities and goals.

IDENTIFY and contact people and resources such as the local police, District Attorney office, elected officials, clergy, and local businesses to help you solve problems and lend support. These groups can also serve as an empowering outlet for victims of crime.

INITIATE training in crime prevention techniques. Find out how to report suspicious situations, and where and whom to call in an emergency.

        Neighborhood watch/block watch groups will require a lot of effort and enthusiasm. There will be set backs, but do not be discouraged. Remember the health and welfare of the children, families and neighbors at stake.

        Yes. The right to quiet enjoyment can be implied or expressly agreed to by you and your landlord. Unless you and your landlord agree otherwise, it is assumed to exist when you rent your apartment.

        It is the right to be left alone. It is the right to not be disturbed in your apartment. However, you must also respect the rights of the people around you. If you are playing music too loudly, or if your guests are disruptive, you can be told to stop.

        No, not unless you and your landlord have an agreement you cannot use the backyard or sidewalk. Your right to "quiet enjoyment" also applies to those places you use to get to your apartment like the hallway, backyard and sidewalk.

        You should make a list of the date, time and what your landlord is telling you can or cannot do. Remember that there are some things the landlord can request. You should not violate any lease or agreement with your landlord, and you should always respect your neighbors' rights to quiet enjoyment. However, if you have been a good and considerate tenant, and you believe that your landlord is harassing you unreasonably, you can write your landlord a letter saying that s/he is interfering with your right to "quiet enjoyment" of your apartment. You should also contact a lawyer such as Neighborhood Legal Services at 847-0650 for legal advice on how to stop your landlord from bothering you.

NEIGHBORHOOD LEGAL SERVICES, INC. RECEIVES GRANT
FROM DEPARTMENT JUSTICE

        The United States Department of Justice, under the Violence Against Women Act, awarded $272,856 to Neighborhood Legal Services, Inc. (NLS), and its partners, Haven House, and Volunteer Lawyers, Inc., to assist victims of domestic violence. These funds can be used to assist victims with Order of Protections, divorces, housing, eviction matters, and matters related to employment.

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