The Akron Peacemakers hosted a postcard project for the National Night Out Against Crime

By Staff Writer

During the National Night Out Aug. 5, the Akron PeaceMakers had a spot at 17 sites throughout the city, providing information and guidance to youth. Attendees were also be asked to fill out a postcard with positive thoughts about their neighborhood. After the event, these cards were sent to residents in other neighborhoods promoting positive lifestyles in the Akron area.

The 31st Annual National Night Out (NNO) is a unique anti-crime and drug prevention event sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch

This year’s local theme was: “Looking Out for Each Other.”

The National Night Out campaign involves citizens, law enforcement agencies, civic groups, businesses, neighborhood organizations and local officials from more than 15,000 communities and all 50 states, U.S. territories, Canadian cities and military bases worldwide. In all, more than 37 million people participated in America’s Night Out Against Crime.

National Night Out in Akron started in 1984 with one East Akron site. In 2005, a second site was added in West Akron. Since then, Mayor Don Plusquellic has added several sites per year. Today, with a total of 17 sites, Akron has the most coordinated NNO events than any other city in Ohio.

“This is a time for our citizens to come together to promote awareness, safety and unity, so that our neighborhoods can be safer, especially for our kids,” said Plusquellic. “If we could channel the spirit and energy generated from this night and carry it forward, we could make our neighborhoods a safer place year- round.”

National Night Out is designed to:
*  Heighten crime and drug prevention awareness;
*  Generate support for, and participation in, local anti-crime programs;
*  Strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships; and
*  Send a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are
organized and 
are working together to reduce crime in our communities.

City of Akron anti-crime signs were available at all the locations as well as Block Watch sign-up and information.

For questions regarding the event, please contact Billy Soule at (330) 375-2660 or bsoule@akronohio.gov.