Neighborhood Organizations
The Office of Community Services is responsible for providing neighborhood organizations with training, outreach and project planning, as well as other services which may be required for their continued success. In addition, the Office of Community Services provides updates on programs being developed and planned from other parts of the state and across the country. This office also collaborates with other government agencies in an attempt to assist neighborhood organizations with their ongoing projects and goals.
Neighborhood Watch - Citizen Patrols
Citizens involved in the Neighborhood Watch Program take to the streets. Participants of this program walk in groups of three or more people, extending the "eyes and ears" of the block watch. The goal of this component of the Neighborhood Block Watch is to establish a positive "presence" in the neighborhood, thereby reducing the opportunity for criminal activity. The participants of the program are trained to observe the activities and report any suspicious activity to the police department. We do not advocate that the participants of the Citizen Patrols act as police officers.
Business Watch
Business Watch primarily establishes links among small businesses, and between them and the police. Basically, Business Watch is businesses (sometimes with community groups), taking systematic steps to reduce opportunities for crimes in and around business locations. It includes training business personnel to be eyes and ears for the police.
Security Surveys
On request, a home or business is inspected for deficiencies in security. Approximately one week after the initial inspection, a report is given to the business or home owner. This report outlines ways in which the owner can increase safety and security and, thereby, reducing the risk of burglaries.
Community Group Presentations
Personnel from the Office of Community Services are available to speak on a variety of topics including crime prevention, drug education and awareness, and gang resistance. These presentations are adapted for children, adults and seniors.
School Resource Officer Program (SRO)
Bridgeport and B.O.E. Police Officers monitor all three city high schools in partnership with community volunteers in a designated safety zone providing a safe route for the children to and from school
|