How can I increase membership/active participation in a voluntary organisation - Neighbourhood Watch?

Question

I've joined a local Neighbourhood Watch group and was shocked at the poor turnout from the community in general. They admitted having trouble in attracting and retaining active members so I thought I would ask you all for some ideas. Neighbourhood Watch is a community based organisation where a group of residents (say 1000 approx) work with local police to try and prevent crime through being aware of what is happening around them. How do we get people interested and keep them interested? All ideas hugely appreciated.

Thanks

Nic

Answer 1

Read "Influencers." It has all the best ideas from psychology and shows how "real people" use them to make great changes.

Answer 2

I'm not sure what they've done so far to recruit, but if you are passing out flyers, I would try to include certain statistics on it.  Perhaps crime stats in your  neighborhood, or possibly any stats which would show how a neighborhood watch helps cut down crime.  Also, at the meetings, make sure there is FOOD!!  I used to be a teacher, and it would be like pulling teeth to try and get teachers to show up for certain committees.  Once the promise of food was there, the turnout increased bigtime!!  You don't have to go all out.  See if a local business will donate pizzas.  Have some bags of chips, sodas,and waters, and you should be good to go.  Always try and see if you can get your food donated.  Good luck!!