National Night Out: Building Partnerships with Police and Communities

By Dauphin County District Attorney and PDAA President Fran Chardo

Community. Camaraderie. Collaboration. Partnership.

These are just a few words that represent the purpose of National Night Out, an annual event where law enforcement and prosecutors come together with the communities they serve. This year’s National Night Out is Tuesday, August 5, 2025.

Thousands of local events will take place in all 50 U.S. states, as well as in the territories and on military bases. In Pennsylvania, community-building events are scheduled in 220 locales, offering camaraderie and fun.

As president of the Pennsylvania District Attorneys Association (PDAA), I am proud to be involved in Dauphin County. I applaud the participants who are working to make this year’s “National Night Out” a well-attended and positive event in every community.

National Night Out is about making new connections while nurturing existing relationships. Strong partnerships between police and their citizens enhance the public’s trust and promote public safety.

Prosecutors work closely with our law enforcement partners every day. You will find county district attorneys and their staff taking part in National Night Out events, not only to recognize the dedicated service of police officers, but to meet the citizens they serve.

Collaboration, open lines of communication, and the understanding community concerns related to crime and violence are values important to prosecutors. They aid in the development of crime prevention strategies. That is why district attorneys across the Commonwealth join PDAA in recognizing National Night Out and its impact in uniting law enforcement with citizens and groups to build stronger, safer communities.

Local events include parades, cookouts, picnics and family fun activities designed to promote safety and denounce violence. I encourage you to attend an event taking place in your community. Come meet your first responders in a youth-friendly manner close to the neighborhood.

Please check your local media outlets for the locations of National Night Out events near you. For more information, go to the National Night Out website.

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