Milwaukee Residents take a stand at National Night Out

MILWAUKEE-- Hundreds turned out for Milwaukee Police District 3's \"National Night Out,\" at the Harley Davidson Headquarters.



\"There's a lot of things for the kids to do and it's a nice day out here,\" said Brenda Durr, who attended the celebration.



Durr brought her grandchildren to the evening festivities.



\"Makes me feel safe,\" she said, looking at all the officers around her.



With activities for the kids, performers, and plenty of food, the event helps the community see a different side of the milwaukee police department.



\"This department isn't just agressive about crime, it's thoughtful about crime,\" said Chief Ed Flynn, Milwaukee Police Department.



Chief Flynn says with the surge in violence we've seen in recent months, building a relationship with the community is crucial.



\"A critical part of our crime fighting strategy is close partnerships with effective communities,\" said Chief Flynn.



Organizers say aside from an opportunity for officers to become better acquainted with communities they represent-- it's also a chance for people to take a stand against crime.



\"This is a day for them to take back their neighborhood,\" said Mandy Potapenko, with Safe & Sound.



They say an evening of fun isn't an end all-- but many agree the community statement is a start.



\"It's all about peace and coming together as a community,\" said Durr.