ENW Youth Perspectives on Safety Program Overview

About the Edmonton Neighbourhood Watch

The Edmonton Neighbourhood Watch Program Society (ENW) is a non-profit organization served by a Board of Directors and two staff members. Our work would not be possible without our volunteer Board Members, Community Representatives, and General Volunteers. 

Our vision is for every individual to feel safe in their community. Our mission is to build a safer community through the provision of crime prevention information and the support of neighbourhood level programs encouraging awareness, education, inclusion, and participation. 

Youth Perspectives on Safety Program

The Edmonton Neighbourhood Watch Program Society (ENW) is excited to announce the development of a new Youth Program designed to engage young people like you in discussions about crime and safety in your communities. We want to hear your voice and work together to create a safer environment for everyone.

Program Goals

• Listen to Your Voice: We aim to understand how you and your peers perceive crime in your neighborhood. Your opinions and experiences matter, and we want to create a platform for you to share them.
• Be Proactive: The program encourages you to actively participate in crime prevention by sharing your insights and ideas on what can be done to make your community safer.

What’s Happening?

1. Surveys: Over the summer, we’ll be distributing surveys to find out what concerns you most about crime in your community. These surveys will be easy to access through QR codes available at events, schools, community centres, libraries, and recreation centres. Your feedback will help us understand the key issues affecting youth today.
2. Forums: In late September to early October, we’ll be hosting forums where you and other youth from various schools and organizations can openly discuss your views on crime—no law enforcement involved. This is a chance for you to speak freely and be heard.
3. What We Heard Report: After gathering your feedback from the surveys and forums, we’ll put together a “What We Heard” report throughout October. This report will summarize your opinions and will be shared with everyone involved.
4. Second Forum: In mid to late November, we’ll hold a second forum where representatives from each youth group will review our report and provide additional feedback. Your input will help us refine our findings.
5. Final Report: By January, we’ll publish a final report that includes all our findings and insights from the program. This report will serve as a valuable resource for understanding youth perspectives on crime.

Why Get Involved?

• Shape the Future: You have the power to influence how your community addresses crime and safety. By participating, you’re helping to create a safer environment for yourself and others.
• Raise Awareness: By sharing your views, you’ll help raise awareness about the challenges young people face in your community.
• Learn & Connect: This program is also an opportunity to connect with other like-minded youth and learn more about the role you can play in crime prevention.

Who Are We Connecting With?

We’re reaching out to various schools, youth groups, and organizations across Edmonton. We’re also in touch with groups like the Elizabeth Fry Society, the Sexual Assault Centre at the University of Alberta, and the John Humphrey Centre to ensure that we’re including diverse voices in our discussions.

Join Us!

We’re still in the early stages of organizing this program, and we need your help to make it a success. If you’re interested in getting involved or if you want to learn more, contact ENW by email at admin@enwatch.ca or by phone at 780 433 7458 to start the free process.

Together, we can make a difference in our communities!