Chicago-area police departments celebrate National Night Out 2024

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Police department across the country are working to build a bridge between the officers and the communities they serve during National Night Out 2024.

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Police departments put on a free community event for National Night Out every year. It began in 1984 and is traditionally held on the first Tuesday night in August.

In Illinois, 179 cities are participating in the nationwide effort, including Chicago.

CPD's 1st and 18th districts are hosting an event at State and Lake, where they've shut down a couple blocks of a night of food and entertainment.

"National Night Out is a celebration of communities coming together with their police officers, really neighbors coming together and really celebrating working in partnership to create safer neighborhoods," said Glen Brooks, the director of community policing with the Chicago Police Department.

Brooks joined ABC7 Chicago earlier Tuesday to talk about the importance of the events.

Police said while National Night Out is one of their largest community events, the work to build relationships with the community don't stop here. The department says each district holds monthly meetings with neighbors to make sure the effort to build trust is ongoing.

Whether it was bonding over burgers on a grill downtown or waxing poetic over antique cars in Norwood Park, each police district has been hoping to promote new partnerships and nurture bonds with neighbors.

"I think it's a wonderful idea, because there's so much mistrust in the police," said Sandra Davis. "But to get a chance first hand to build a relationship and communicate, I think, is wonderful."

Chicago's top cop said this event allows the department to not just connect with community but to truly hear their needs.

"We have a common cause safety, safety in our communities and it's important that we have people come out and work together," said CPD Supt. Larry Snelling. "If we're not talking to people if were not mingling in this way, if were not part of the community then we'll never build those relationships and we are building them with events like this."

People who attended say the festivities and fun provided the perfect backdrop to learn more about those who protect and serve.

"It does help get us to know them more better .you know get them to see how they're doing their job and stuff, protecting the city and everything," said Oscar Russell Jr.

Police said while this is their biggest community-building event, it is not their only one. It is one they hope will encourage more participation and cooperation when it comes to law enforcement.

Here are some events happening on Tuesday:

-Beverly Park at 2460 W. 102nd Street from 5 to 8 p.m.

-West Chicago Police station at 325 Spencer Street from 6 to 8 p.m.

-Foss Park Community Center in North Chicago from 2 to 7 p.m.

-Centennial Park in Evanston at 1631 Sheridan Road at 4 p.m.

-Norwood Park at 5801 N Natoma at 5 p.m.

-Settler's Park in Plainfield at 24401 Lockport Street at 5 p.m.

-Oakton Park in Skokie at 4701 Oakton Street at 6 p.m.

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