Fact Sheet: Block Associations

Why become a member?

1. Ability to speak directly to your elected and public officials on a regular basis and build relationships.
2. Help members of your neighborhood work together toward a common goal.
3. The best deterrent to crime and other neighborhood problems are the people who live in the neighborhood.
4. The cohesive Neighborhood Network, called The Phone Tree, used for reporting suspicious activity and crimes in progress.
5. Help members of your neighborhood work together toward a common goal.

How do I start a group in my neighborhood?

1. A group of 3 or more residents must agree to meet and discuss whatever concerns/issues are affecting their street (Block) on a regular basis.
2. At this meeting those present must mutually agree on starting a Block Association or Neighborhood Watch program. (It is also suggested that the members select a name for the group).
3. An application for membership must be completed and submitted to The HomeOwnership Center.
4. After these guidelines have been satisfied, and The HomeOwnership Center Community Coordinator has attended at least 2 meetings, the group will be certified as a member of the ABC

What do we do next?

1. Decide on how frequently meetings will be held and pick the date, e.g., first Tuesday or 2nd Thursday of every month. Contact your neighbors by phone, mail or face-to-face to get their input and encourage their participation.
2. It is recommended that Block Associations set long & short term goals, and a reasonable time frame to accomplish them.
3. It is suggested members vote for officers. These officers have duties and are responsible for carrying out specific tasks. Examples are: Block Captain, Secretary, & Treasurer.

What are the benefits of your Block Association affiliation with The HomeOwnership Center?

1. A trained and certified facilitator attends each meeting.
2. Assistance with your neighborhood newsletters and fliers.
3. Members operate under the not-for-profit umbrella of The HomeOwnership Center.
4. Insurance for Events and Activities.
5. Computer Availability & Internet Access.
6. Use of copier and Fax.
7. Networking opportunities at regular scheduled meetings.
8. Consulting and advice on Neighborhood strategies, issues and concerns.
9. Local training opportunities workshop settings conducted by nationally recognized experts.
10. Detailed written information on Neighborhood Watch, fire safety, crime and more.
11. Neighborhood Watch Signs and Stickers.
12. Paint Distribution Program.
13. National, Regional, and Local Training.

For More information:

Contact Craig Grant
Phone: 315.724.4197
UNHS NeighborWorks® HomeOwnership Center
1611 Genesee Street
Utica, New York 13501

Copyright 2007 Utica HomeOwnership Center Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without authorization.