The City of Cape Girardeau Gun Violence Task Force is a citizen advisory committee consisting of agency partners and community members dedicated to examining the city government’s role in gun violence prevention. While this committee is a significant first step in combating crime in our community, the real work ultimately falls to the neighborhoods themselves to take action and create lasting change.
And this is not unique to Cape but communities on both sides of the River.
Neighborhoods aren’t just a collection of houses and streets; they are vibrant ecosystems where every resident has the potential to create positive change. Whether you’re new to the area or a longtime resident, there are countless ways to make a difference right outside your door.
From formal Neighborhood Watch groups to informal gatherings of neighbors discussing issues and solutions, it all starts with you and your commitment to taking action at the neighborhood level. Here are some easy ways to make your neighborhood great:
- Start a Neighborhood Watch or Group Neighborhood watch programs have been keeping communities safe for over 40 years. Since the early 1970s, neighbors have been banding together and working with local law enforcement to prevent and protect the community against crime. While you may not be legally obligated to report a crime, every citizen has a moral duty to do what is right for the wellbeing of their community and neighborhood.
- Get to Know Your Neighbors A great way to bring the neighborhood together is to organize neighborhood cleanups. This not only fosters relationships but also helps address local needs and increases community involvement and awareness. By getting to know your neighbors, you can form bonds to help each other in trying times. These connections can become invaluable during disasters or tragedies, sometimes becoming extensions of your family.
3 .Schedule a Cleanup in Your Neighborhood Organizing a cleanup can be an amazing way to get involved. By working together to address the needs of local residents, neighbors learn the importance of community involvement while fostering closer relationships. A study showed that crime decreased more significantly in areas where community members took care of vacant lots compared to those maintained by professionals. This demonstrates that it’s not just about maintaining the environment; it’s about people showing they care. Keeping your neighborhood clean and well-maintained can deter crime. When people see that residents care about their community, it sends a strong message that the neighborhood is being watched and protected. - Throw a Block Party Hosting a block party is a fun way to get to know your neighbors and strengthen community bonds. It can create a sense of unity and belonging, making the neighborhood a more enjoyable place to live.
Communities with a high level of social organization tend to have lower levels of crime. Predatory criminals notice when they’re being watched and prefer to avoid areas where residents are vigilant. When neighborhoods are active, with people hanging out on their front porches and walking to greet neighbors, it sends a message that people care and are paying attention.
Community safety efforts work to prevent and reduce crime while building a strong, tight-knit group centered around a common goal. Finding a community that values close relationships and connections is essential for feeling safe and secure where you live, work, and spend your free time. Becoming part of a neighborhood that can protect and support each other is of utmost priority.
Your neighborhood isn’t just where you live; it’s a community where you can make a positive impact. By taking these steps, you can help create a safer, stronger, and more connected neighborhood.
Starting a Neighborhood Watch Group
From formal Neighborhood Watch groups to neighbors getting together to discuss issues and solutions, it starts with YOU and YOUR commitment to taking action.
Since 1972, the National Neighborhood Watch Program has worked to to reduce crime and improve local communities.
Contact the Public Information Office for more information or visit the Neighborhood Watch website.
