Street Clubs

Street clubs or associations in Cleveland Heights date back as early as 1917 and many streets in our community have long-standing traditions. They hold block parties, gourmet dinners, take part in parades and also hold street meetings. Some streets meet regularly; others have occasional meetings to discuss specific issues or areas of concern. Street associations give neighbors an opportunity to get to know each other, work together to solve common problems, have some fun and strengthen a sense of community.

Starting a Street Club

Every street has its own character, so each street association is unique and exists to meet the needs of the people who live there. A small nucleus of interested neighbors is all it takes to start the process. Following are a few suggestions to get you started:

• Set a meeting date. Weekday evenings seem to be best. To increase attendance, prepare flyers and personally invite your neighbors.
• Plan an agenda in advance. For the first meeting, you may want to get acquainted with your neighbors by holding an informal get-together.
• You may want to select a speaker for the evening. 
• After your first gathering, consider the following for your street meeting:
  • Discuss what a street association is and how it can work for you.
  • Establish a workable structure, choose leadership. (Ask for volunteers!)
  • Set up committees for future activities (block party, special events, street newsletter, etc.) or begin working on street concerns.
  • Schedule the next meeting.