NEIGHBORS TAKE CARE

Published on Friday, July 22, 1994
© 1994 The Arizona Republic

For those of you who are tired of hearing about all the violence, the corruption of our children, the danger of the streets -- you have an opportunity to make yourself seen and heard on July 30.

On this date, there is an opportunity for Valley neighborhoods to show their strength and their commitment to improving the community for our youth. The ''Neighbors Who Care Fair'' and Freedom March will present ways for families to get involved in the community and join the fight against youth crime and drug abuse. These events are the Valley's kick-off festivities for National Night Out.

Beginning at 4 p.m. at Phoenix City Hall, 200 W. Washington St. in downtown Phoenix, the ''Neighbors Who Care Fair'' activities will focus on crime prevention, helping kids with gang and drug problems and showcasing those who serve as role models for at-risk youth.

Information will be provided on how to organize neighborhood coalitions and will include workshops on self-defense for women and children, immunization information, free child identification and many other services.

The Freedom March is a sunset walk and parade from Phoenix City Hall to the Arizona Center. Beginning at 8 p.m., join District of Arizona U.S. Attorney Janet Napolitano, Phoenix Mayor Thelda Williams, Vice Mayor John Nelson, Phoenix Police Chief Dennis Garrett, Sheriff Joe Arpaio and neighborhood groups as they march in the fight against youth violence and drug abuse.

The events will focus on teenagers and the need to reach them. Statistics show that only 5 percent of kids are committing crimes and the remaining 95 percent are doing fine. The 5 percent need help recognizing that there are alternatives to getting into gangs and getting in trouble.

These events are a time for celebration, a time for uniting as a neighborhood and as a community. Last year 25 million people from all over the country participated in National Night Out festivities. I encourage all those who care about our community to bring their families and join in the fun! As a unified community, we can make a difference in the fight against crime.

Richard Donley Fox
President, Phoenix
Block Watch Advisory Board

Type of story: COMMUNITY VIEW / LETTER