CLT250: Partnering with the Community
By: Nicole Eaton, Charlotte Communications & Marketing
It’s a 25-year tradition in Charlotte. One night where neighbors in all parts of Charlotte come outside to meet each other and the police officers that serve their community. The event is National Night Out and the tradition continues on Aug. 7.
This year is special because Charlotte’s National Night Out is a key event for CLT250, a yearlong celebration of Charlotte’s 250th anniversary. CLT250 is all about building our community together and making an impact on the next 250 years, and what better way to celebrate than joining National Night Out.
Building community relationships
As a whole, National Night Out is in its 35th year and there are millions of participants all across the country. The goal of the event is to promote camaraderie among neighbors and law enforcement in a positive environment to create a safer place to live.
“This is a way for communities and police to come together and fight back against criminals.” — Officer John Frisk, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD)
With over 70 events in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg area, residents will be demonstrating “no tolerance” for crime through various activities. Each neighborhood is different. Activities can include block parties, cookouts, porch sit-ins, ice cream socials, and more. At every event registered with the city, CMPD will have a presence.
CLT250: National Night Out
Continuing the celebration of CLT250, this event is an opportunity to think about what the next 250 years in Charlotte may look like and the city wants residents to join that conversation. In addition to CMPD, city staff from various departments will attend many of the neighborhood events. At the event, residents can learn about CLT250, play a game and sign up for various volunteer activities with the city.
“I’ll be volunteering at an event because I wanted to get involved with CLT250 and it’s a great opportunity to engage with our community.” — Linette McCallum, Housing & Neighborhood Services, CharMeck 311
How to get involved
There are various ways to support this year’s CLT250: National Night Out in Charlotte on Aug. 7.
Attend a community event
The city has a list of participating National Night Out events. For additional information,
- Check with your homeowners’ association or property manager.
- Ask your neighborhood leaders.
- Contact CMPD’s community coordinator for your division.
- Look for information on your neighborhood’s Next Door site
Leave your porch light on
The porch light is a symbol of alertness and awareness and makes your neighbors feel welcome. Leave the porch light on from 7–10 p.m. Continue to leave it on beyond Aug. 7 to always welcome your neighbors.
For next year: Register your neighborhood
Registration with CMPD is closed for this year, but neighborhoods are encouraged to plan events throughout the year. Next year, remember to visit cmpd.org to register your neighborhood.
