City of Appleton Neighborhood Watch

Thinking about organizing a Neighborhood Watch Group?

The best crime prevention tool ever invented is a good neighbor! In fact, neighbors working together, in cooperation with law enforcement, can make one of the best crime-fighting teams around.

What is Neighborhood Watch?

Neighborhood Watch (NW) is a crime prevention/community program that enlists the active participation of citizens, in cooperation with law enforcement, to reduce crime in your community.

How does NW work?

A successful Neighborhood Watch program is made up of participants (your friends, family, and neighbors) who are willing to “look out for each other,” and individual participants who are alert to, and recognize suspicious behaviors and activity, then immediately report it.

Is NW really effective?

Involving citizens in NW programs decreases opportunities for criminals to commit crimes rather than attempting to change their behavior or motivation. Neighborhood Watch groups are an effective means of crime control and prevention, and neighborhood cohesiveness. The desired result: making our community safe and a great place to live and work!

How to Get Started:

1. Contact the Appleton Police Department NW Community Outreach Coordinator to express your interest.
2. Determine a reasonable area for your NW group to cover. 
3. Get out and talk to your neighbors – ask to join the group – have them sign a petition.
4. Turn in your petition to the NW Program Coordinator and schedule a start-up meeting – invite participants (we can help you plan a successful start-up meeting).

Neighborhood Watch Group (NW) Documents 

NW Start-Up Petition