A safe, welcoming community grows from the everyday ways neighbors look out for one another and show they care. Simple gestures like saying hello or bringing a neighbor’s trash bins up from the curb can help build trust that keeps a neighborhood connected.
Neighborliness also strengthens safety. Exchanging contact information helps residents alert each other if a package is left out or a garage door is open. Checking in during heat waves or storms, helping carry groceries, or welcoming new neighbors with a friendly note all create a sense of belonging. Even small efforts, like sharing tools or inviting the block to a casual neighborhood cleanup, bring people together.
So, consider sharing your extra garden produce, sweeping leaves or snow from a shared sidewalk, or offering to watch a pet. When neighbors care, the whole community feels more positive, resilient and connected.
Neighbors watching out for neighbors
Want to help make Bloomington an even stronger community? The Neighborhood Watch program empowers residents to work with the Bloomington Police Department to prevent crime and strengthen community connections.
Neighborhood Watch is one of the nation’s most effective crime prevention programs. Neighborhoods with active watch groups typically see crime rates decrease by 16 to 20%. Participants receive crime alerts, learn how to recognize and report suspicious activity, and build relationships with neighbors.
The program, led by volunteer block captains who serve as liaisons between residents and the Police Department, is open to everyone. Starting a watch group is simple and begins with gathering neighbors and developing a communication plan.
Active groups may qualify for Neighborhood Watch signs and all groups are encouraged to participate in National Night Out in August each year.
Learn more at blm.mn/NeighborhoodWatch.
