National Night Out

About National Night Out

National Night Out is an annual evening of block parties across the city. National Night Out is designed to:

• Heighten awareness of crime and drug prevention;
• Generate support for, and participation in, local anti-crime programs;
• Strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships;
• Send a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

National Night Out is a community engagement opportunity for citizens and officers to come together. When citizens know their neighborhood officers, it helps foster relationships that can enhance community participation in crime fighting measures.

Unlike most cities across the country which hold theirs in August, St. Louis’ National Night Out is held in October. On this day, street blocking permit fees are waived for those holding NNO block parties.

Registration for National Night Out begins in early April and ends in early September.

The History of NATW and National Night Out

The National Association of Town Watch (NATW) is a nonprofit, crime prevention organization which works in cooperation with thousands of crime watch groups and law enforcement agencies throughout the country. Since 1981, NATW has been dedicated to the development, growth and maintenance of organized crime and drug prevention programs nationwide. NATW's network has grown to include over 6,500 crime, drug and violence prevention organizations.

National Night Out, 'America's Night Out Against Crime,' was introduced by the Association in 1984. The program was the brainchild of NATW Executive Director Matt A. Peskin.

While the traditional 'lights on' and front porch vigils remain a part of NNO, activities have expanded considerably over the years to include block parties, cookouts, parades, visits from police, festivals, neighborhood walks, safety fairs, contests, rallies and meetings.

Party Ideas

Give an award for oldest person on block, BBQ, Bicycle Race, chalk drawing contest, volleyball, basketball, home improvement award, Straight A Student Award, Watermelon or Cake Eating Contest, Welcoming Immigrant or Refugee Neighbors, School Supply giveaway, Anti-Drug/Anti-Crime Rally, Recognize Your Neighborhood Police Officer, Water Play, Scavenger Hunt, Jail and Bail, karaoke, Crime Prevention Tips, potluck, sack races, meet a new neighbor contest, Plan a Block Unit Meeting, Invite Police-Fire-EMT, Neighborhood Clean-Up, etc. 

More party ideas at http://natw.org/

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