PHOTOS: Rosemount Celebrates Night to Unite

Despite the steamy conditions outside, people took a timeout from their busy schedules to simply chat and have fun with their neighbors during this year's Night to Unite event.

The goal of the Night to Unite program is to get people talking to their neighbors in an effort to reduce crime in neighborhoods. The concept is simple and effective, but many residents do not take the time to get to know their neighbors. Cities participating in the Night to Unite program hope that it will help convey the message that residents of a community can help reduce crime by being aware of what’s happening in a neighborhood.

Another key element of the Night to Unite program is the chance for city officials to connect with residents in neighborhoods. Members of the police department and fire department visited some of the neighborhood parties to discuss crime prevention strategies, and other issues important to residents.

The Night to Unite is a smaller, statewide program with similar goals to the National Night Out program which many other communities across the country participate in. The Night to Unite program was established three years ago by the Minnesota Crime Prevention Association, and has experienced steady growth over the past three years.