One of the National Sheriffs’ Association’s most successful and well-known programs is Neighborhood Watch. For decades the program has effectively trained and encouraged Americans to watch out for their families and neighbors by preventing and reporting safety and security issues in their neighborhoods.

In 2002, USA Freedom Corps was created under President Bush's initiative to build a culture of service, citizenship, and responsibility in the country. USAonWatch was established under Citizen Corps as an expansion of the Neighborhood Watch program to empower citizens to become directly involved for the purpose of homeland security. Following the hurricanes of 2005, a new initiative for emergency preparedness and service swept the country. Neighborhood Watch groups are a way for law enforcement and citizens to work together in disaster preparedness efforts.

The mission of the Neighborhood Watch program now includes terrorism prevention. The enhanced program shows citizens how they can play a potentially crucial role in detecting and preventing terrorist acts. Neighborhood Watch groups across America are now making preparedness a part of their daily lives. 

The goal now is to rapidly expand the number of active Neighborhood Watch groups across America.

The strength of our country is rooted in the dedication of individual citizens who value peace, freedom, individual rights, and humanity. USAonWatch works because of the millions of men, women, and children in neighborhoods across America who keep a watchful eye at home on the safety and freedom of the United States.

How to Start a Neighborhood Watch Program

Begin by contacting your Citizen Program Committee.  If you are unsure whether there is a CPC in your community contact the Macoupin County Citizen Corps Council or click HERE to check the Citizen Program Committee page on this site.  For more information and helpful tips on starting a Neighborhood Watch Program click HERE.

For more information please contact the Macoupin County Citizen Corps Council.

Important Links and Information:

www.usaonwatch.org- The national USAonwatch website.

http://www.usdoj.gov/- United States Department of Justice website.

http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/BJA/- Bureau of Justice Assistance website.

http://www.sheriffs.org/- The National Sheriffs' Association