If you are a newcomer to an older neighborhood you will be needing to look into the local association or club. Some neighborhoods that were built a long time ago have neglected their association to the point of nonexistence. A lot of people consider themselves pioneers for moving into these lovely old inner city areas. They are avoiding the traffic that they used to deal with and are enjoying the lovely established foliage but are getting some unpleasant surprises too. Community support is right around the corner, even if you have to start it yourself.
Check around the neighborhood and see if there are any active homeowners clubs or organizations that are in need of fresh blood. You are going to want other people around you that are going through the same thing. You don't have to sit in traffic anymore and stare at the strip malls as they go. You do have all sorts of old house issues to deal with alongside the charm, though. There are lovely giant old grandfather oaks as well as some questionable characters hanging around the corner.
If you want to improve the neighborhood involvement then you need a firm identity for where you live. You need a name and a logo. If you don't know the name ask around. The old-timers will know what the area is referred to. You need to make that name a part of a logo. Find out what your neighborhood boundaries are and start a small newsletter. You can use the logo on the newsletter and on some promotional products when there is more cash flow. You want people to get excited and join the association. Send them info on how to get involved in the newsletter. You will also need to get them connected online for an info exchange. This way of keeping in touch is how you will slow down the flow of crime through the area. Online neighborhood watch.
The dues will help cover the cost of the newsletter and the website. Later you can get area businesses to buy ads in your newsletter which will help to cover costs too. You will need a website mediator. This could also be the association president. They will be in charge of the website and sending out alerts. You need a system of alerts. If something funky is going on, like thefts or people obviously casing houses you can put the word out immediately. If you get sponsors or sell ads for the newsletter you could order some community shirts or hats. Then people can walk around showing their neighborhood pride.
All of these things together will begin to build a lovely connected community that will feel like home. It is up to you and your neighbors to make your association work for the community.
Promotional caps are one item that will help pull people together. Any decent quality
promotional merchandise that bears the neighborhood logo will be desired.
