Frequently Asked Questions

Some people are concerned initially about the civil liability they might incur because of having offered refuge to someone, but they must remember that the mere posting of a sign in their window does not change their responsibilities at all. If they would have taken in a frightened child before they joined the Block Parent Program, there is no reason why they should hesitate now. Experience shows there will be few incidents of any sort happening to any Block Parent volunteer, since Block Parent Programs tend to deter criminal or disorderly activity in a neighborhood.

Of course not. There is no enforcement within the Block Parent plan, so the Block Parent may open, or refuse to open, his / her door to anyone he/she chooses. It is expected that the volunteer will always provide refuge for the very young children, who are the primary objects of the program's protection. However, whether to offer haven to anyone else is entirely up to the conscience and courage of the person whose home it is. The sign in the window does not obligate the homeowner to open his / her door to anyone at all - it merely indicates that he/she is a member of the Block Parent Program and is probably at home.

No. The mere display of such signs throughout a neighborhood tends to discourage molesters and other undesirables. A Block Parent may go 10 years or more without participating in a "dramatic rescue" of any kind. By keeping the sign posted, you are letting children in the area know that you are a participant in the Block Parent Program.