What is a Block Parent?

A Block Parent is any responsible adult, over the age of 18 years, who is willing to assist anyone (children, teen and adults) who may require help. When you apply to become a Block Parent, all residents of your home, 12 years of age and over, will undergo police screening. Screening is provided by the Calgary Police Service, at no cost to the Association. All volunteers are rescreened every two to three years as long as they continue to participate.

Once you have passed the police screening and have been approved by the Calgary Block Parent Association, you will be issued the distinctive red and white Block Parent sign. We ask that you display the sign in a street facing window when you are home and available to help, should the need arise. If you are going out, may not hear the doorbell or if you just do not want to be disturbed, you simply take the sign down. You decide when you want to be "on duty". We would like you to consider making a commitment to show your sign a minimum of ten hours per week, though any contribution is appreciated.

What whould you do if someone requiring assistance knocks on your door?
You are never required to admit anyone to your home. You can simply communicate through a locked door to exchange the information necessary to summon assistance. Usually this requires a simple exchange of a telephone number for contacting a family member, friend or appropriate emergency service (paramedics, police, tow truck, etc.) Unless otherwise qualified, you are also not expected to administer first aid. In the case of a lost child, you would attempt to call the child's parents and failing that call the police.

Many people fear that their sign may become an indication to would-be criminals of whether or not they are home. This is not the case. There will be many times when you are home that you would not have your sign on display. Police have assured us that criminals rely on far simpler indications of home occupancy or vacancy.

Many volunteers participate in the Program for years without being required to assist anyone. Keep in mind that Block Parent is a crime-prevention program, so who knows what your sign may prevent from happening. Of course one never really knows when they may be needed. Children have reported an increased feeling of security when they walk through a neighbourhood well marked with Block Parent signs, knowing "safe" adults who care are available.

The numbers of homes in any community with an adult present during the day is steadily decreasing. For this reason, Block Parent needs many more volunteers each making a small contribution. There is no cost involved, no meetings to attend, you don't even have to leave your home to make a valuable contribution to your community. Why not call 269-6460 and request an application form today. We need your help!