HCSO uses Nextdoor as neighborhood-focused communication tool

According to a recent study, 93% of Americans say it is important to look out for each other, yet 50% of Americans do not know a single neighbor by name. That is why Nextdoor, the private social network for neighborhoods, was created. Nextdoor’s mission is to bring back a sense of community to neighborhoods everywhere by offering free neighborhood websites specifically designed to foster conversations among neighbors and build stronger, safer communities.
 

There are 120 Highlands County neighborhoods that are already using Nextdoor, and the Highlands County Sheriff’s Office uses the platform to connect with residents to improve safety and strengthen virtual neighborhood watch efforts.

On Nextdoor, neighbors create private websites to get to know one another, ask questions, and exchange local advice and recommendations. The HCSO is able to share important safety information and emergency notifications to residents on a neighborhood or county-wide level through Nextdoor.

Nextdoor was specifically designed to make neighbors feel comfortable sharing information with one another. All members must verify that they live within the neighborhood. Information shared on Nextdoor is password-protected and cannot be accessed by those outside the neighborhood, including the Highlands County Sheriff’s Office, or found on Google or other search engines. Nextdoor never shares personal information with any third parties.

To learn more about how the Sheriff’s Office uses Nextdoor, contact Sgt. Kimberly Gunn at kgunn@highlandssheriff.org or 863-402-7453. For more information on Nextdoor, visit www.nextdoor.com.