Tacoma and Pierce County residents are encouraged to join the Safe Streets Campaign to celebrate National Night Out on Tues., Aug. 7. The nationwide event aims to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness; generate support for, and participation in, local anticrime programs; strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships; and send a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

“National Night Out provides a perfect opportunity for people to get to know their neighbors and begin the important work of reducing crime and making the streets safer in their neighborhoods,” said Priscilla Lisicich, executive director of Safe Streets Campaign.

Throughout Pierce County, other unique celebrations will take place, including block parties, barbecues, picnics, safety fairs with representative from police and fire departments, and more. More than 9,000 communities across the country celebrate National Night Out to make a statement against crime.

“National Night Out is an exciting way to give neighbors a chance to get to know each other and ultimately reach the same goal as Safe Streets – to create neighborhoods that are safe places to raise families,” said Mike Wilson, Safe Streets’ Youth Leading Change Program Manager.

A list of local National Night Out parties is available online here.