Block Leader

Building Community, One Block at a Time

Block Leaders are engaged Cupertino residents who go the extra mile to connect neighbors and build community -- helping our neighborhoods to be safer, healthier, and more resilient.

The Block Leader program helps residents learn how to get to know their neighbors and organize activities so neighbors can more easily communicate. Block Leaders receive updates on neighborhood activities and services and are vital links between City Hall and the neighborhoods.

Members of the Block Leader and Neighborhood Watch programs are volunteers, and do not represent the City of Cupertino. 

 

Apply to become a Block Leader through the Volunteer Portal!

Block Leader Roles and Expectations:

• Connect Neighbors
  • Create a contact list or group chat for your Block so that everyone on the Block can get in touch. This information should be shared within your Block, not the wider community. 
  • Encourage neighbors to see beyond differences and work together on common interests.
• Improve Communication
  • Block Leaders gain the inside track on new programs and projects are are vital links between City Hall and the neighborhoods. 
  • Block Leaders pass on information to their neighbors from the City, and report back neighborhood concerns or issues. 
• Increase Public Safety
  • Connected communities are safer and more resilient. Block Leaders help neighbors look out for each other and get to know each other before an emergency. When disaster hits, Block Leaders check in with their neighbors. 

 Each Year, Block Leaders Must: 

• Attend at least one Block Leader meeting. Meetings are held quarterly. 
• Gather your neighborhood. You could throw a big holiday bash or a coffee hour - give everyone a chance to get to know each other. 
  • Current Block Leaders are eligible for a $300 grant for permitted Block Parties. Apply here!
• Respond to a REACH message to let your community know about potential hazards and risks. 

What is REACH?

REACH (Raising Emergency Awareness of Community Hazards) is a part of the City Inclement Weather protocol. When weather represents at least a “moderate” risk (as designated by NWS), volunteers are sent a copy of the situation report along with risks, impacts, and preparedness information, with subject line "ACTION REQUESTED". Volunteers are encouraged to share this information with their community, and confirm that they have done so. If weather is designated a major or extreme risk, volunteers are expected to disseminate the REACH messaging (subject line "ACTION REQUIRED") and report message spread through an online form.

Cupertino's Block Leader Program is the proud recipient of the National League of Cities’ NBC/LEO 2015 City Cultural Diversity Award and the League of California Cities 2010 Helen Putnam Award for Enhancing Public Trust, Ethics, and Community Involvement.