NCJ Number
87551
Date Published
Unknown
Length
36 pages
Annotation
This procedural manual describes the steps in forming a block association, including guidance in program development, the creation of by-laws, incorporation, dues, and membership drives.
Abstract
Block associations are formed because citizens have recognized that a group of neighbors working together with common interests toward common goals can accomplish much more than one person working alone. The first step in forming a block association is to walk through the neighborhood and observe positive and negative aspects of the buildings and life in the neighborhood. The second step is to talk informally with people who live and work in the neighborhood, discussing specifically the common needs and problems of the neighborhood and how a block association might help in dealing with them. Step three consists of holding a preliminary meeting of interested persons in your home. Provide time for getting to know one another and then share the information gained from observations in the tour of the neighborhood. The meeting should issue in an identification of neighborhood problems and how a block association might help meet them. The fourth step is the calling of a second meeting that includes more people. This meeting should result in the formation of a steering/organizing committee, which will prepare for the holding of a full meeting of the block. The goal of the first block meeting should be to decide whether the neighborhood could benefit from a block association. Should enough support exist to form the association, considerations include the election of officers, the formation of by-laws, incorporation, dues, membership drive, fundraising, and program development. Attachments include a sample survey for a block association, sample by-laws, and instructions for chairing a meeting.