Building a safer community
The power of connection: How the “Art Of Neighboring” can help prevent crime
A growing body of research shows something many communities have long believed: strong neighborhoods help reduce crime. In the study, The Effect of Social Connectedness on Crime: Evidence from the Great Migration, researchers Bryan A. Stuart and Evan J. Taylor found that communities with stronger social connections experienced significantly lower rates of violent and property crime. Their research showed that when people feel connected to those around them, crime decreases.
The researchers examined decades of crime data across U.S. cities and discovered that social connectedness was one of the strongest predictors of safer communities. Areas where neighbors had stronger ties and support networks saw reductions in murders, robberies, assaults, burglaries, and motor vehicle thefts. In some cases, increases in social connectedness were associated with a crime reduction of more than 20 percent.
Crime prevention is not just about enforcement, it is also about relationships.
The Louisville Police Department’s “Art of Neighboring” program is built on this same principle. When neighbors know each other, check in on one another, and build genuine relationships, communities become stronger and safer. A connected neighborhood is more likely to notice suspicious activity, support families during difficult times, help isolated residents, and create an environment where criminal behavior is less likely to thrive.
The “Art of Neighboring” is not just about being friendly; it is about building trust, resilience, and shared responsibility within our community.
Research continues to show that people who feel connected to their neighborhoods are more invested in protecting them. Communities that know each other are often quicker to respond, more willing to collaborate, and better equipped to prevent crime before it happens.
At the Louisville Police Department, we believe public safety is a shared effort. Law enforcement plays an important role, but strong neighborhoods begin with strong relationships between neighbors.
Know Your Neighbors
Introduce yourself, welcome new residents, and build authentic relationships that create trust.
Watch Out for One Another
Keep an eye on homes, vehicles, and packages. Small acts of awareness make a big difference.
Report Suspicious Activity
If something does not feel right, report it early. Quick communication helps prevent crime.
Create a Visible Community Presence
Walk your neighborhood, visit parks, and spend time outside. Active neighborhoods discourage crime.
Improve Lighting & Visibility
Well-lit homes and maintained landscaping increase safety and reduce hiding places.
Build Trust with Law Enforcement
Positive partnerships between residents and police strengthen communication and community safety.
Help Vulnerable Neighbors
Check in on elderly residents, families, and neighbors who may need extra support.
Keep Shared Spaces Clean
Clean parks, trails, and neighborhoods create pride and discourage vandalism and disorder.
Promote Traffic Safety
Adhere to traffic laws, stay alert, and help create safer streets for pedestrians, cyclists, and families.
Engage Youth in Positive Activities
Mentorship and positive interactions help young people feel connected to their community.
Share Information
Use neighborhood groups and community networks to share safety updates, scams, and resources.
Create a Sense of Belonging
Communities thrive when people feel connected, included, and supported.
Together We Create a Safer Louisville
Community Engagement • Connection • Prevention • Partnership
“Being a good neighbor is one of the most effective forms of crime prevention.”