Neighborhood groups are born in many ways. As a reaction to crime or sudden change, a desire to beautify the physical environment, a need to connect with those living nearby, or to prepare for earthquakes and other disasters. How do these groups evolve from one shared goal into sustainable organizations that achieve real benefits for their members? Three neighborhood activists share their experiences and challenges in Oakland, El Cerrito, Berkeley and Richmond in a journey to build stronger neighborhood organizations using both Internet and front stoop strategies.