Do I need to become a patroller when I am a member of the FBW Community Forum?
No, becoming a patroller is voluntary and requires an additional application.
Does membership include security services?
Security companies essentially offer services to their registered paying clients, but members benefit from their visibility patrolling, and where feasible sponsoring (EC Security and Help 24) security companies do respond to messages of concern placed on the relevant WhatsApp group.
Is FBW Community Forum essentially a neighbourhood watch (NHW)?
No, it started off such, under auspices of the Florida Community Policing Forum, in accordance Chapter 7 of the South African Police Service Act, Act 68 of 1995, but evolved to a community forum, with the vision of a progressive, well-maintained, safe, and diverse community/neighbourhood, which provides a home for residents; a stable working environment for responsible businesses; and striving towards sustainability.
A neighbourhood watch, also called a crime watch, is an organised group of civilians, such as the patrollers, devoted to visibility, crime-, and vandalism prevention, in collaboration with sponsoring security companies and SAPS, within their neighbourhood
Is FBW Community Forum a residents’ association?
Indeed, it is. A residents’ association is an organisation of people, who live or run a business in the demarcated area (indicated on the ‘Home’ page), who come together to help make their neighbourhood a better place. It addresses local issues and intends to find viable solutions.
Is FBW Community Forum a non-profit organisation (NPO)?
An application has been made to become an officially recognised NPO. FBW Community Forum does not exist to make a profit. It exists to serve some public purpose.
Is FBW Community Forum a public benefit organisation (PBO)?
By nature, it is, because it exists solely and primarily to undertake public benefit activities with a philanthropic or altruistic intent. Once formally registered as NPO, applications for PBO status and tax-exempt status with SARS would be made. Donors making donations will then quality for tax rebates. Note that this would not apply to annual membership contributions.
Does FBW Community Forum collaborate with neighbouring residents’ forums/associations?
Indeed, it does. There are strong ties, and connections are well maintained, to work together and form a stronger united front. Also with Joburg Community Action Network (CAN) Contact us – Joburg Community Action Network (joburgcan.org.za) and the Organisation for Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA) Section 18A | OUTA