Project 365

What is Project 365?

Between now and National Night Out 2012, all National Night Out registered areas are asked to designate a particular 'problem area' in their communities. It could be anything from a park overtaken by drug dealers, to a gang problem, to a graffiti problem, to expanding Neighborhood Watch, to a particular block or neighborhood plagued by crime, drugs or violence.

The goal will be to work towards correcting that problem within an estimated "365" days - or, in other words, by National Night Out 2012.

What Types of 'Problem Areas' should we consider for "Project 365"?

It is completely up to each individual NNO coordinating agency or organization. Select a crime or safety related problem that when removed, will help to make your community, neighborhood or block a safer, more desirable place in which to live. Most importantly, from Night Out to Night Out, document the results.

Initially, the suggestion would be to start small. Designate a problem or problem area that has a reasonable chance of being resolved or eliminated. Here are just a few suggestions:

•A park plagued by crime, drug dealers, underage drinking, etc.

•A poorly lit corner where crime and drugs are prevalent.

•Expand the number of Neighborhood Watch groups in your community. Target those neighborhoods that have been traditionally tough to organize.

•Residential burglary. Pick a section of your community that is having a problem. Implement an auto theft protection program. Track the results.

•Robbery. Select a section of stores that have been hit recently. Institute a robbery reduction plan and track the results.

•Clean up a "problem area". Remove illegal trash piles, broken bottles, graffiti, abandoned cars, trash-filled vacant lots. A year long clean-up campaign can help reduce or eliminate existing problems.

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