By WKTV Staff
Kentwood police officers, firefighters and city leaders will help celebrate National Night Out on Tuesday, Aug. 2. The event will feature block parties, neighborhood events and more.
National Night Out is an annual nationwide event that promotes community-police partnerships and encourages residents to turn on their porch lights and come outside to connect with their neighbors, community leaders and local police and fire department personnel.
Kentwood police officers, firefighters and leaders will join residents at 15 gatherings, most of which will take place from 6-8 p.m. Residents can learn about a variety of safety topics and explore police cruisers, fire engines and other emergency response vehicles at the events.
“National Night Out gives residents a chance to connect with our police and fire teams and learn how we can all be part of a community effort to make the City of Kentwood a wonderful place to call home,” Mayor Stephen Kepley said. “The city’s leadership team is excited to spend time with residents and enjoy an evening of camaraderie, community and connection.”
Several community-based events will be hosted throughout the evening and feature a variety of free activities, including appearances from McGruff the Crime Dog.
- Ada Bible Church, 1640 East Paris Ave. SE, will offer food and activities from 5-8 p.m.
- Pentecostals Church, 2627 44th St. SE, will host a party from 6-8 p.m.
“National Night Out is a great opportunity for our department to spend time with community members in a fun, relaxed setting,” Police Chief Bryan Litwin said. “We always look forward to this event and value strong community relationships.”
National Night Out was created in the 1980s through an established network of law enforcement agencies, neighborhood watch groups, crime prevention associations and volunteers across the country. It began with a goal to promote thriving neighborhoods by uniting community members and police against neighborhood crimes.
For more information, visit kentwood.us/NNO
