National Night Out returns to Voorhees tonight, Aug. 2

National Night Out returns to Voorhees courtesy of the Voorhees Township Police Department tonight, Aug. 2.

Through National Night Out events, police and other civic groups gather to share vital information with members of the public, while also strengthening the partnership between communities and their police forces by spending a fun summer night together.

According to Voorhees Police Lt. William Walsh, this year’s event will split into two locations in Voorhees at Kresson and Osage Elementary Schools from 6 to 9 p.m.

Walsh said the department chose schools on the east and west sides of town so residents would be able to attend the event while being closer to their own neighborhoods and communities.

“We’re hoping we reach more of our citizens as opposed to people who just happen upon it,” Walsh said. “We really want our citizens to become involved.”

Walsh said the two events would be identical, with police, equipment, rides, civic groups, food and other attractions at each location.

“A lot of time people only get to meet officers when they’re going through something difficult, whether it be a medical emergency when they call 911 or a car stop, but with this you come out and meet police in a more positive situation.”