Forming a Block Group

Are you interested in forming a block group but not sure how to get started?  The following organizational steps have been successful in the past.  Email somersetprepares@gmail.com if you would like help with this.
  1. Start by asking a few neighbors you may already know to help out with generating interest and getting things started.
  2. Decide which homes you would like to include in your group. We can help with a recommendation.
  3. With your co-organizers, plan an event
    1. Decide what type of event you would like to have (potluck meal, picnic, BBQ, ice cream social or similar event).  Generally, an event that all members can contribute to works well.  Remember, the SCA will provide limited financial support (up to $100 annually) for costs associated with holding meetings and/or maintaining block group supplies. Let all your members know to save receipts!
    2. Decide the event location.  Meeting at one of the homes in the group will be most successful. In the past, group members have offered their driveways, garages, yards, decks or living/family rooms for gatherings.  A block party can also be planned where your group's common street is blocked off by the city for the period of your event.  Contact somersetprepares@gmail.com if you want help with setting that up.
    3. Decide the event date and time.  Early in September, just after school starts, has worked for some in the past. Others prefer just before school lets out in the spring. Either way, consult the school calendars before setting a date as orchestra concerts and football games often draw people away. 
    4. Decide on the event format and agenda.  Introductions, eating and socializing are typical agenda items.  A door prize drawing, fun game or other amusements might help bring people closer.  Some time for learning about how to reduce crime or prepare for emergencies is also often included in meetings.  The SCA and City of Bellevue provide resources for these types of information sharing sessions.   See Block Meeting Topics below for ideas.
  4. Divide up the homes into subgroups for organizers to go door to door to meet neighbors and invite them to the event. Face-to-face communication is important and most effective. Keep it informal and stress the main goal is for neighbors to meet one another. Ask for any specific concerns which might help focus the informational portion of the meeting. A printed flyer with time, location and contact information to be left with the neighbor is also helpful.

Possible Agenda Topics

A block group gathering event often includes a preparedness or security presentation or discussion of some topic of mutual interest.  Some example topics:
  • A cul-de-sac island or street cleanup.
  • Map Your Neighborhood.  Facilitators are available to help lead discussions.
  • Ask the Bellevue Police Department to discuss neighborhood safety and Block Watch.
  • Ask the Bellevue Fire Department to discuss fire safety.
  • Discuss aspects of personal preparedness.  This might include explanations, demonstrations and practice on
    • proper use of kitchen fire extinguisher
    • first aid skills.
    • how to recognize a gas leak and shut off your natural gas at the meter.
  • Discuss and practice emergency communications.