The Guardian Angels is a volunteer-based organization made up of dedicated individuals who donate their time and energy to help protect communities around the world.

Founded by Curtis Sliwa in the Bronx, New York City in 1979, the Guardian Angels have been active in New Zealand since January 2006, when Andy Cawston established New Zealand’s first Guardian Angels chapter in Henderson.

A unique feature of The Guardian Angels approach is the group's inclusion of youth in the safety patrols.  By making young people part of the solution rather than casting them as part of the problem, the Guardian Angels empowers youth to take pride in their communities and contribute to the safety of their neighborhoods.

Over the years, the Guardian Angels have empowered thousands of citizens – both young and old – to take responsibility for cleaning up their communities and safeguarding their streets. As a result, there are now more than 125 Guardian Angels safety patrol chapters throughout the world, with constant additions being made.

And the grassroots community patrols also spurred the creation of neighborhood watch groups throughout the United States and around the world.