(Red Deer Neighbourhood Watch/Facebook)

By Ian Gustafson

Raising awareness

Red Deer Neighbourhood Watch at risk of folding

Oct 15, 2025 | 3:18 PM

The Red Deer Neighbourhood Watch says they’re at risk of ceasing to exist if the Crime Prevention Centre closes its doors.

The non-profit organization, which was established in 1992, relies on the Centre for resources, space, and collaboration.

Without that, the Neighbourhood Watch will not be able to continue to operate.

“We help build safer, more connected communities by encouraging people to get to know their neighbours and report suspicious activity,” said Lorraine Pitts, President of Red Deer Neighbourhood Watch, in a media release. “But without the support of the Crime Prevention Centre, our programs and outreach will end.”.

The organization has 765 active members who are volunteers, including 85 trained block captains. They play an important role in keeping neighbourhoods informed, engaged, and proactive.

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They explained the centre is not just an office, but a place where residents can access crime prevention resources, ask questions, and get advice.

Over the years, the Neighbourhood Watch has made a difference in Red Deer by informing the public, encouraging local involvement, and helping build stronger, safer communities.

To learn more or to support Red Deer Neighbourhood Watch, visit www.nwatch.ca.

As reported in July this year, the Crime Prevention Centre may have to close its doors due to a loss of funding.

For over a decade, the City of Red Deer had been providing the centre with operational funding, but according to the centre, they will no longer receive it. In addition, officials say they also didn’t get the federal Canada summer jobs grant they usually receive.

This has led the Crime Prevention Centre to operate with fewer staff and decreased operational hours, which has prevented them from providing the same programs and services, officials point out.

The Centre has been a staple in central Alberta since 2012.