## The Guardian Angels: Unconventional Vigilantes of New York City The Guardian Angels, a volunteer safety patrol group, has been a familiar sight on the streets of New York City since its inception in 1988. Most people assume safety patrols are run by trained, uniformed police. But in New York City, an entirely volunteer organization has been working to provide a visible presence and help prevent crime. ### A Day with the Guardian Angels We spend a day with the Guardian Angels to get a glimpse into their daily operations. The group is made up of individuals from all walks of life, united by their desire to contribute to the safety and well-being of their community. They patrol the streets, parks, and neighborhoods, often in bright orange vests, providing a reassuring presence to locals and visitors alike. ### The Founding of the Guardian Angels Cutis Sliwa, founder of the Guardian Angels, had a vision to create a group that would fill a gap in community safety. On June 13, 1988, a report on Manhattan's streets highlighted the need for such a group. Sliwa, a 24-year-old at the time, was determined to make a difference. Led by Curtis "the Rock" Sliwa, the Guardian Angels were born. ### The Early Days In the early days, the Guardian Angels were met with skepticism and even criticism. Some viewed them as vigilantes, taking the law into their own hands. However, Sliwa and his team were adamant that their role was not to replace the police, but to complement their efforts. The group's motto is to "observe and report," not to engage with suspects. ### A New Approach to Community Safety The Guardian Angels' approach to community safety is unique. They focus on building relationships with local residents, business owners, and law enforcement. By doing so, they create a network of eyes and ears that help to prevent and respond to incidents. Curtis Sliwa discusses the start of the Guardian Angels and how it has evolved over the years. ### Patrolling Central Park Curtis Sliwa takes Crime Watch Daily's Jason Mattera on an exclusive patrol of Central Park. As they walk through the park, Sliwa points out various hotspots and areas of concern. The patrol is a chance for Sliwa to showcase the Guardian Angels' work and to demonstrate their commitment to community safety. ### The Guardian Angels' Impact The Guardian Angels have had a significant impact on the communities they serve. By providing a visible presence, they have helped to reduce crime and improve the overall sense of safety. Their work has also helped to build trust between law enforcement and the community. ### The Future of the Guardian Angels As the Guardian Angels continue to grow and evolve, they face new challenges and opportunities. With a strong foundation in place, the group is well-positioned to expand its reach and make an even greater impact on community safety. ### Key Facts About the Guardian Angels Here are some key facts about the Guardian Angels: * **Founding**: The Guardian Angels were founded on June 13, 1988, by Curtis Sliwa. * **Mission**: The group's mission is to provide a visible presence and help prevent crime in communities. * **Volunteer base**: The Guardian Angels are an entirely volunteer organization. * **Patrol areas**: The group patrols streets, parks, and neighborhoods in New York City and other locations. ### Conclusion The Guardian Angels are an unconventional group of vigilantes who have made a significant impact on community safety in New York City. By providing a visible presence and building relationships with local residents and law enforcement, they have helped to reduce crime and improve the overall sense of safety. As they continue to grow and evolve, the Guardian Angels remain a vital part of the community safety landscape.