KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – An annual community-building event that promotes positive relationships between neighbors and public safety happens in Kalamazoo and across the the U.S. tomorrow, with National Night Out.
Organizers say across the country, millions of people will participate in neighborhood gatherings, block parties, cookouts, games, and family-friendly activities designed to bring communities together.
In Kalamazoo, neighborhoods host their own unique celebrations, offering residents an opportunity to connect with neighbors, meet Public Safety officers and City staff, learn about local resources, and enjoy an evening of community.
“National Night Out is one of our favorite opportunities to connect with the people we serve,” said Lieutenant Andrew Werkema of the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety’s Community-Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Division. “These conversations help us build trust, strengthen relationships, and better understand the needs of each neighborhood. Whether someone has a public safety concern, wants to learn more about City services, or simply wants to meet the officers who serve their community, National Night Out creates those opportunities in a fun and welcoming environment.”
Neighborhood events in Kalamazoo include:
Douglas Neighborhood: 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. at Adda Dilts Peace Park, 508 Denner St.
Westnedge Hill Neighborhood: 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Crane Park, 2100 Crane Ave.
Northside Neighborhood: 5:00 – 7:30 p.m. at Northside Association for Community Development, 612 N. Park St.
Arcadia Neighborhood: 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. at Arcadia Elementary School, 932 Boswell Ln.
Milwood Neighborhood: 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. at Milwood Commons, 2031 E. Cork St.
Vine Neighborhood: 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. at O’Duffy’s Pub, 804 W. Vine St.
Edison Neighborhood: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Southside Park, 2156 Race St.
West Main Hill Neighborhood: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Jones Park, 1601 Academy St.
Westwood Neighborhood: 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. at Frays Park, 1006 Piccadilly Rd.
Urban Alliance: 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Urban Alliance, 1009 E. Stockbridge Ave.
City officials say activities vary by neighborhood and may include games, food, music, resource tables, and opportunities to meet Public Safety officers and City staff.
National Night Out began in 1984 as a way to encourage neighbors to get to know one another and work together to create safer communities. What started with residents gathering on their front porches has grown into a nationwide event involving thousands of communities each year.
For more information about National Night Out events in Kalamazoo, visit www.kalamazoocity.org/NationalNightOut.
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