One of the most effective ways to build community spirit and promote safety is to know your neighbors. SUNA encourages annual Neighborhood Block Party Nights. A popular time has been Sunday afternoons in September.
Guidelines for Hosting Block Parties:
- Enlist the help of a couple of neighbors to serve as host households.
- Suggested time is 4 to 7 pm.
- Identify the households/streets you want to include.
- Distribute an invitation door-to-door or in email.
- Ask neighbors to bring a dish to share and lawn chairs.
- Host households can provide grills for cooking and serving tables.
- Set up in your front or back yard or driveway. DO NOT BLOCK THE STREETS!
- If the party will be held on a cul-de-sac or street with only one entrance/exit, the city of Urbana can provide barricades to block off the street. To do so, apply for a block party permit at http://urbanaillinois.us/residents/residential-block-party-permits.
- Invite members of the Urbana Police department to attend your party. They welcome the opportunity to meet neighbors! Phone (217) 384-2320.
