National Night Out brings together the Valparaiso community to connect citizens with first responders

On Tuesday, August 4, the Valparaiso Police Department hosted National Night Out at Central Park Plaza. The evening was filled with fun activities for community members and the opportunity to connect with neighbors and local first responders. This also marked the 22nd consecutive year for the event.

Joe Hall, captain of support services, and Natalie Beare, police social worker, organized the event that was free to the community. The evening included K-9 unit demonstrations, a meet-and-greet with the K-9 handlers and their partners, and a drone demonstration. People of all ages were able to learn more about the Valparaiso Police Department, and connect with officers beyond the badge.

Different divisions also had tents set up with activities for attendees of all ages, including a spot for kids to make IDs. Tables also included coloring sheets and handouts. Attendees were able to interact with police officers throughout the evening, check out police vehicles, and grab a bite to eat, all while enjoying the warm weather outdoors.

“National Night Out is designed to get police and communities continuing to work together, form partnerships, and an opportunity for our citizens to get to know the officers behind the badges,” said Hall. “It’s for us to listen to what’s going on around the community from their perspectives.”

This is the first year that the event has taken place at a central location, after a Valparaiso officer suggested moving it. In past years, it took place in neighborhoods and was split into two groups, as the neighborhoods continued to grow. Hall noted that this year, they wanted to have it at a central location in order to spend more quality time with the community and citizens. The new location allows for the police department to showcase more of their specialities and different divisions on a greater scale.

“It’s important for our community and our police department to work together. It is what makes Valparaiso an amazing place to live, work and play,” said Hall. “We’re working as a team between the police officers and citizens to make sure we’re doing the best job that we can.”

The goals for the evening boiled down to one thing: community outreach. Hall said National Night Out is to develop their partnership with the city of Valparaiso and for officers and citizens to learn about each other. Hall is grateful for the vendors and people who came out to support them and participate.

Police Chief Andrew McIntyre has been with the Valparaiso Police Department for 17 years, and has not missed a National Night Out yet. McIntyre emphasized the importance of connecting with the community, and said that the department would not be as successful as they are without the assistance and support from the citizens and community.

“I’m thankful for everyone who comes out and participates,” McIntyre said. “Our officers and their families are spending their time with us as well, and we hope it’s a great event.”

To learn more about the Valparaiso Police Department, you can visit ci.valparaiso.in.us/1841/Police, or check out the Facebook page of the department.

For additional information about the City of Valparaiso and its departments, visit ci.valparaiso.in.us.