Block Party with the 90th and the 94th Precincts
Since 1984 one night in August draws out neighbors, neighborhood organizations, community leaders, and local law enforcement to gather in a street party atmosphere for a fun community building opportunity. National Night Out was founded by Matt Peskin who came up with the idea as a way to develop a higher profile for community crime watch activities that deter crime.
In our community, the 90th Precinct held their event at Continental Army Plaza near the Williamsburg Bridge and was visited by several local officials and Southside community members. Meanwhile in Greenpoint amidst the fun the 94th Precinct sought to introduce young men and women to the Explorers: a career-oriented program that educates about law enforcement to those who are 14–20 years old.
Over the years the relationship between police and those in the communities they serve have become closer after participating in National Night Out. One study showed that the three-quarters of residents said they felt either more or much more comfortable contacting law enforcement officers after National Night Out, and 64 percent said they felt safer in their communities.
“It’s a program that really makes a difference. It’s a lot of fun to put together, it reaches deep into neighborhood- and community-building, and it works,” Peskin has said.
