Block Leaders are asked to spread important messages to their communities as part of the REACH (Raising Emergency Awareness of Community Hazards) program. Data was not collected for messages and alerts sent prior to November 2022. In November 2022, we started experimenting with ways to measure our performance. Beginning with the December 8th message, we asked volunteers to confirm that they had received the message, if they had shared the message with their community, and how many people they had shared the message with. 

We are continually looking for ways to improve the Block Leader program so the metrics you see here may change. 

*To view past messages check the newsletter archive.
**Also includes Neighborhood Watch captains, does not include members of the Cupertino Citizen Corps (CARES, CERT, and MRC)

Apply to Become a Block Leader
Log on to Cupertino's Volunteer Portal to submit an application.

Get Trained

If you are eligible to become a Block Leader (all participants must be Cupertino residents), Marta will reach out to schedule a training. 

Introduce Yourself & Plan a Gathering

1. Introduce yourself to neighbors
Knock on your neighbors’ doors, point to where you live, and tell them about your hopes to get everyone acquainted. This might be the best time to ask for feedback and ideas for your future get-together.

2. Plan your gathering
You can get neighbors together for a variety of reasons ranging from an organized block party or safety meeting to a pop-up informal dessert exchange. Some of the most successful gatherings are simple and focus solely on the opportunity for neighbors to meet.

Try to hold your gathering in the neighborhood, or nearby park, to make it convenient for all to participate. To safely close your residential street, Cupertino's block party program provides barricades and other services at no cost.

Consider organizing a Neighborhood Watch meeting, or emergency preparedness training directly in your neighborhood.

3. Collect neighbors’ contact information for emergencies and activity planning
Keep information confidential and set an agreement with neighbors that shared lists are to be used for emergencies and neighborhood planning only. Many people prefer to share contact information only with those they know so be prepared to wait until after your first gathering to complete your contact list.

When needed, the Office of Emergency Management will send alerts. Block Leaders are asked to spread such messaging as widely as possible.

Block groups can organize neighborhood email groups, or use social media to communicate with neighbors.

Getting Assistance & Support

Neighborhood Block Leaders Learn Step-by-step Methods
They gain tips and resources to acquaint neighbors, plan gatherings, and improve communication and safety in the neighborhoods.

Neighborhood Block Leaders Are Informed
They hear about City services and new neighborhood projects and programs. Block Leaders become familiar with City Hall and where to relay neighborhood concerns.

Neighborhood Block Leaders Meet Several Times a Year
They receive training and updates, exchange organization tips with peers, and gain in-depth information on City activities.

The City:

1. Coordinates training sessions and materials;
2. Provides resources, including commonly asked questions and sample neighborhood fliers;
3. Acquaints new leaders with experienced leaders

To remain an active member of the program, Block Leaders must attend at least one meeting per year, maintain communication with the City, and keep an up-to-date contact list for their Block.

As almost all program news is by email, Block Leaders are asked to ensure that a correct email address is provided. 

Come and join this vital community team! Co-leaders are welcome and encouraged.

Contact

Marta Drown martad@cupertino.org or (408)777-3408

Becoming an Official Block Leader

Congratulations! Once you have acquainted neighbors, or held a neighborhood gathering, you've taken the most significant step to becoming a Cupertino Neighborhood Block Leader.

Thank you for helping to build community in the neighborhood. We appreciate and support the good work you started!

We encourage you to keep at it and to contact the City to become an official Cupertino Block Leader. As a Block Leader, you will receive information about new citywide programs and projects that may affect your neighborhood. You will also be introduced to other neighborhood leaders who care, like you.

To remain an active, Block Leaders must:

1. Gather neighbors at least once a year
2. Participate in Block Leader meetings/training at least once a year
3. Respond to a REACH message