Discuss common concerns and neighborhood issues, such as crime reduction, after-school activities for children and neighborhood beautification. Talk about creating a structure for your organization. It is generally a good idea to elect officers - usually a president, vice president, secretary and treasurer. The officers should then set a meeting schedule. Elected officers and a regular meeting schedule can provide great stability to a newly emerging organization, or to one in need of strengthening.
Patience is a virtue and a necessity.
You will have to do a lot of phone calling, talking and persuading to get all the stakeholders on board. Often the first few months are characterized by disagreements and frustration. Don't give up - work toward a common goal of improving your neighborhood. We're here to help. The City's Neighborhood Planning and Support Division offers technical assistance, leadership training, helpful information packets and other services to assist your neighborhood association in getting off the ground, or in becoming more effective.