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National Night Out
America's Night Out Against Crime

"National Night Out, America’s Night Out Against Crime," was introduced by the National Association of Town Watch (NATW) Association in 1984. The program was the brainchild of NATW Executive Director Matt A. Peskin. That first year, 400 communities in 23 states participated in National Night Out (NNO). Nationwide, 2.5 million Americans took part in 1984. Participants turned on their front porch lights to show their solidarity with local law enforcement. The citizens were sending a message that they would not tolerate crime in their neighborhood.

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. The 23rd Annual NNO in August of 2006 involved 35.2 million people in 11,125 communities from all 50 states, U.S. territories, Canadian cities, and military bases worldwide.

Director Peskin has said,

"It’s a wonderful opportunity for communities nationwide to promote police-community partnerships, crime prevention, and neighborhood camaraderie. While the one night is certainly not an answer to crime, drugs and violence, National Night Out does represent the kind of spirit, energy and determination that is helping to make many neighborhoods safer places throughout the year. It (NNO) is a night to celebrate safety and crime prevention successes - and to expand and strengthen programs for the next 364 days."

The Bellevue Police Department will begin planning for next year’s NNO in January. Community support is critical for this event to succeed. Donations of monies and prizes are greatly appreciated. Please contact the Community Policing Coordinator at (402) 637-5852 with questions. Block parties are a great way to meet your neighbors and celebrate National Night Out. Consider having a party next August.

More information will be available on this site in the future. We have provided links for you to view and download photos from last year’s National Night Out in Bellevue, and learn more about NNO at the NATW website. We hope to see you at next year’s "National Night Out, America’s Night Out Against Crime."

For more information please email Mr. Glen Truax.