HASTINGS, NE — Law enforcement officers in Hastings are feeling the support of the community.

The Hastings Police Department and Hastings Area Chamber of Commerce hosted the annual National Night Out event on Tuesday at Lib’s Park. Corporal John Adams says the event has several goals.

“We have a great community out here. We want to continue to have this great community," Adams said. "They support us, so this is a way for us to give back to them, but it’s also a night where everybody comes together and takes a stand against crime.”

There was a barbecue, yard games and non-profits hosted informational booths. Adams County Sheriff John Rust hopes the activities were a way to introduce people to law enforcement.

“(It’s important) to let them know we’re people too and allow a bond to be initiated," Rust said. "From that, then you can grow and build better things.”

Adams says people’s first impression of police can be a lasting one and often occurs in a negative situation. National Night Out is just part of the department’s efforts to show officers in a positive light.

“We really try to go above and beyond to gain the trust and the community support here," Adams said. "We work every day, day in and day out, 24 hours a day to try and gain that trust and support.”

The Hastings Police Department is asking for the public's feedback on how it can continue to improve the National Night Out event.