National Night Out brings Kearney neighbors and first responders together

KEARNEY, Neb. - Central Nebraska is joining communities nationwide for "National Night Out," which is an event dedicated to building trust and connection between first responders and the neighborhoods they serve.

Police and first responders handed out free food and interacted with several neighborhoods across Kearney as part of the yearly event.

The departments visited five locations throughout Tuesday evening, and marks KPD's fifth year participating in the national initiative which officers say keeps growing in popularity.

"When we come together as a community, as part of our law enforcement, we work together. That's what makes our community safe," Kearney Police Sergeant J.C. Small.

"This allows us to go to different pockets, different neighborhoods of the city to interact with different people that maybe don't get to see us in a positive light during the day. So, this is one of those times that's just a positive interaction with the public towards the goal of community safety," added Small. 

The event concluded with a city-wide meet up at Pioneer Park where attendees participated in more activities along with an outdoor movie.

The department says National Night Out will remain part of its efforts to maintain community relationships.