In the news, there seems to be never-ending reports on violence in our neighborhoods. It is almost as if we as a community have become numbed or deaf to the fact that violence in urban areas is ongoing. I feel that we can change this stigma by looking back to a time before our streets were filled with violence.
I can remember when neighborhoods had Neighborhood Watch committees, including the neighborhood I grew up in, the North Point neighborhood between Baden and Jennings. We had a Neighborhood Watch on just about every street. Along with Neighborhood Watches, there were also block parties to show that our neighbors could enjoy one another’s company with clean music, food and fun for the entire block.
It is time to do more for one another within our community. Good camaraderie is the key to any type of good relationship. Let’s bring it back to our neighborhoods, one block at a time. This summer would be a great time to get with your neighbors and get a block party going. Also, set up a Neighborhood Watch. You can get information for a Neighborhood Watch by contacting the local police department.
We also should look after the children during summer break to prevent accidents and incidents that might occur if the children are not tended to. It is important that they have fun activities to do while not in school. Your group could possibly designate a house on the block for the kids to eat lunch together before playing outside. That will assure you that all of the kids are being looked after and cared for.
They also could set up some activities or field trips for the children on your street. Remember, many attractions, such as the Science Center, Art Museum and Zoo are free. Involving all of the kids in the neighborhood would be very cool. By taking time to talk and organize fun activities, you will keep the attention of the kids during the summer months.
Remember, it takes a village to raise a child. Parents we can take that proverb to heart and bring our community together one street at a time through interaction with one another. If the children can see the parents working together in the neighborhoods respecting one another, then they will do the same.
It is a community effort that is missing in the many stories of crime and violence that overshadow the good in our neighborhoods. Togetherness in our neighborhoods is what we are lacking. This is something that needs to be seen by our children. To grow up in a neighborhood where children can’t go out to play should never be the norm. As parents, neighbors, and friends let’s take this time to step up, stand up and do the right thing.   Â
