The Neighborhood Watch program. Here's a community based program that's been proven to deter crime. The National Neighborhood Watch program, sponsored by the National Sheriffs' Association since 1972, unites law enforcement agencies, local organizations and individual citizens in a community wide effort to reduce residential crime. Thousands of these programs have been developed around the country, breaking down the isolation of neighbors as they work together and with law enforcement officers. It is a remarkably successful anti crime effort, as participants work together as a true community, neighbor looking out for neighbor.
Any community resident can take part, young and old, single and married, renter and homeowner.
A few concerned residents, a community organization, or a law enforcement agency can spearhead the effort to organize a Neighborhood Watch. Members learn how to make their homes more secure, watch out for each other and the neighborhood, and report activities that raise their suspicions to the police or sheriff's office. Watch groups are not vigilantes. They are extra eyes and ears for reporting crimes and helping neighbors. How to get started.