I recently met with leaders of other neighborhood associations who, like CY residents, are protected by the officers of the Union Avenue Precinct.
Crime and safety were the topics of conversation. The stories shared were very eye-opening for me. One leader described her fear of calling about a drug house down the street because of retribution. Another spoke of how her neighbors call her and then she calls the police. I heard story, after story, after story about drug deals, thefts, home breakins all being everyday or every night occurrence in these areas.
The grass roots solution to all of the above? Block clubs! Knowing our neighbors (who they are, what they drive, how many kids they have, how to contact them in emergencies, etc.) is the foundation to knowing what’s right and what’s wrong on the street. Knowing our neighbors is a way to show our caring for our neighbors. People with something illegal to hide will move away if a community works together.
These other neighborhoods are struggling with block clubs, but we are blessed to have the largest number of block clubs ever in the history of the CYCA. Yet, there is room for more. Block clubs can start with two homes sharing information and coming together. It’s okay to start small and grow into a larger club. Contact the CYCA office if you want more information on how to start a block club. The CYCA has resources that can help you feel safer and meet your neighbors. Board member Ginger Spickler has done a tremendous job with forming and strengthening block clubs. Thank you, Ginger!
With summer upon us, this is a great time to get out, meet your neighbors, and get involved with a block club.
In CY happiness,
John Kinsey
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