An opportunity for residents to spend time with law enforcement and other community partners is slated for July 31, as the 17th annual Putnam County National Night Out will be held at the Putnam County Fairgrounds from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m.
"National Night Out originally began as a collaboration between law enforcement and communities as a way for communities to meet their law enforcement officers and create a bond or relationship that would encourage children and families to make wise decisions and stay away from dugs, alcohol and tobacco. Children hopefully would learn to trust their community in seeing officers in a different light and one of friendship and security," Putnam County National Night Out co-chair Linda Merkel told The Putnam County Post.
This year's event will feature food served, a push to get people involved in Teen Court and fun, and the best part is it is free.
"National Night Out is held all over the United States and, now, beyond our borders. Many communities like ours have branched out to include other resourceful agencies and organizations that hold true to the mission that our purpose is to see our children and families have every opportunity to grow up in a safe and wonderful environment with hopes of a quality education, healthy and successful," Merkel said.
Merkel said for 17 years the event has served families from all over Putnam County and it usually draws in 1,300 to 1,400 community members.
"We have over 30 local organizations that provide resources, games, raffle prizes, educational materials, food, school supplies, canned food items and coats for kids, just to name a few. We believe our children are better prepared and feel more confident about heading to school with this annual experience," she said.
Serving as co-chair with Tom Sutherlin, of the Putnam County Sheriff's Department, and Renee Marsteller, chief juvenile probation officer, Merkel said she enjoys seeing the families and giving back.
"Personally, I can't think of a better way to serve my community and to give back to a place that has been so gracious to our family. This is truly an honor to serve and to work alongside such great community individuals. We have over 100 volunteers who deeply share the passion of meeting the needs of our community together, and together we can make a difference," Merkel said.
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