National Night Out

Announcement From the Neighborhood Stabilization Division

Dear Residents of Saint Louis City,

We are pleased to inform you that, after thoughtful consideration and collaboration with the Street Department, we have successfully negotiated a change in the permit time for our community events. Previously scheduled from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., the new permit time will now be from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., providing an extended window of opportunity for all residents to engage and participate.

The rationale behind this change is rooted in our commitment to fostering a safe and inviting environment for everyone. We understand that in certain areas, community events often conclude by 7 p.m. due to concerns related to local crime rates. By moving the permit time earlier, we hope to mitigate these concerns and encourage more widespread participation throughout our beautiful neighborhoods.

One of the key advantages of this revised permit time is its positive impact on our younger residents. With many of our community members being students, the earlier start time at 4 p.m. aligns seamlessly with the end of the school day. This adjustment aims to enable our children to fully engage in these events, fostering a sense of unity and camaraderie among the generations.

It is important to emphasize that this change in permit time is entirely at the discretion of each block within our community. We respect the unique needs and preferences of every neighborhood and encourage open dialogue among residents to determine the most suitable approach for your specific block.

We are genuinely excited about the potential this change holds for our community's vibrancy and unity. Let's come together to embrace this opportunity for increased community involvement, making our neighborhood events even more memorable and enjoyable for all.

Thank you for being an integral part of our community. We look forward to your continued participation and engagement.

About National Night Out

National Night Out is an annual evening of block parties across the city. National Night Out is designed to:

• Heighten awareness of crime and drug prevention;
• Generate support for, and participation in, local anti-crime programs;
• Strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships;
• Send a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

National Night Out is a community engagement opportunity for citizens and officers to come together. When citizens know their neighborhood officers, it helps foster relationships that can enhance community participation in crime fighting measures.

Unlike most cities across the country which hold theirs in August, St. Louis’ National Night Out is held in October. On this day, street blocking permit fees are waived for those holding NNO block parties.

Registration for National Night Out begins April 1st and ends September 16 at 11:59 p.m

The History of NATW and National Night Out

The National Association of Town Watch (NATW) is a nonprofit, crime prevention organization which works in cooperation with thousands of crime watch groups and law enforcement agencies throughout the country. Since 1981, NATW has been dedicated to the development, growth and maintenance of organized crime and drug prevention programs nationwide. NATW's network has grown to include over 6,500 crime, drug and violence prevention organizations.

National Night Out, 'America's Night Out Against Crime,' was introduced by the Association in 1984. The program was the brainchild of NATW Executive Director Matt A. Peskin.

While the traditional 'lights on' and front porch vigils remain a part of NNO, activities have expanded considerably over the years to include block parties, cookouts, parades, visits from police, festivals, neighborhood walks, safety fairs, contests, rallies and meetings.

Party Ideas

Give an award for oldest person on block, BBQ, Bicycle Race, chalk drawing contest, volleyball, basketball, home improvement award, Straight A Student Award, Watermelon or Cake Eating Contest, Welcoming Immigrant or Refugee Neighbors, School Supply giveaway, Anti-Drug/Anti-Crime Rally, Recognize Your Neighborhood Police Officer, Water Play, Scavenger Hunt, Jail and Bail, karaoke, Crime Prevention Tips, potluck, sack races, meet a new neighbor contest, Plan a Block Unit Meeting, Invite Police-Fire-EMT, Neighborhood Clean-Up, etc. 

More party ideas at http://natw.org/

Contact

The Neighborhood Stabilization Team NNO Organizer, Yolanda Bowden at 314-657-1391 or via email at NationalNightOut@stlouis-mo.gov for more information on NNO.