ABOUT the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF TOWN WATCH

The National Association of Town Watch (NATW) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the development and promotion of organized, law enforcement-affiliated crime and drug prevention programs. Members include: Neighborhood, Crime, Community, Town and Block Watch Groups; law enforcement agencies; state and regional crime prevention associations; and a variety of businesses, civic groups and concerned individuals working to make their communities safer places in which to live and work.

Since 1981, NATW's network of information, assistance and affiliation has been serving hundreds of member groups from throughout North America. As a national group member of the Crime Prevention Coalition, NATW supports the "McGruff—Take a Bite Out of Crime" campaign. NATW's center of information, programs and technical assistance works with law enforcement and civilian leaders to keep volunteers interested, involved and motivated.

National Night Out: America's Night Out Against Crime

NATW's annual "National Night Out" (NNO) program which is held on the first Tuesday each August, has been extraordinarily successful in promoting involvement in crime and drug prevention activities, strengthening police-community relations, and encouraging neighborhood camaraderie as part of the fight for safer streets. Since 1984, "National Night Out—America's Night Out Against Crime" has grown to involve over 34 million people from more than 10,000 communities.

"National Night Out" has the strong support of many agencies and organizations including the U.S. Congress, Justice Department, FBI and the International Association of Chiefs of Police. "NNO" has grown to involve cities and law enforcement agencies from all 50 states, U.S. territories, Canada and U.S. military bases around the world. Along with the traditional porch-sitting and 'lights on', areas sponsor locally tailored events such as block parties, cookouts, parades, visits from law enforcement, rallies and marches. "NNO" is a popular and effective vehicle for heightening awareness, enhancing police-community relations, and bolstering volunteer morale. Participate as a VIP during each year's "National Night Out" campaign and be eligible for valuable discounts on official NNO promotional items.

NATW's "New Spirit" newsletter keeps members updated on the latest crime and drug prevention news, programs, products, legislation and events. Members learn which programs are working, which are not, and why. NATW members are eligible for year-round "members only" discounts on special items and products. A new "National Highlight Award" sponsored by NATW recognizes member-areas with outstanding crime and drug prevention success stories.

NATW will alert the national media to member-areas with unique community crime prevention strategies and programs.

Join Today Online!
NATW needs the support and participation of organizations like yours. We invite you and your area to become a part of the NATW network today. Once you become a member, keep the national office updated on news and successes from your community. NATW will let the nation know about your local innovations.

Complete the NATW online Application for Membership and return the form and your first year's dues to NATW.