The atmosphere was filled with laughter and excitement at Holder Park in Cairo as the Cairo Police Department hosted its second National Night Out event of the year. Designed to foster community-police partnerships and provide a safe evening of fun, the event encouraged kids and adults alike to engage with local officers in a vibrant and supportive environment.A Community AffairUnder the guidance of Chief Giovannie Santos, the CPD intentionally chose Holder Park for this event to ensure accessibility for residents of the inner-city neighborhood. “This is an opportunity for law enforcement to go out into the communities that we serve,” remarked Santos. According to Thomasville Times-Enterprise, the event was strategically timed, though school schedules impacted attendance, those who came enjoyed interactions that aimed to break down barriers to trust and fear.Activities and EngagementsThe festivities included a wide array of amusements such as a mechanical bull ride, a prize wheel offering bubbles, bracelets, and candy, alongside the chance to win raffle prizes. The joyous occasion saw children winning Motor Soakers and adults taking home movies baskets and cookware—further enriching the spirit of camaraderie.Building Trust Through InteractionsChief Santos emphasized on one-on-one interactions between children and officers, explaining how critical these are for shaping perceptions. “It breaks our heart that most of the time we see kids who are afraid of police,” he shared, highlighting the importance of showing officers in a positive, approachable light.The Broader Community ImpactBeyond child interactions, CPD’s efforts also focus on teenagers and those children who might spend time alone at home, needing to call for help during emergencies. “You never know when they might need help one day,” Santos said, stressing the importance of such community engagements.Looking to the FutureConcluding the night, Chief Santos expressed deep affection for his community, reiterating the importance of these partnerships in strengthening trust between CPD and the people they serve. “We’ll continue to host events like these,” he promised, recognizing their impact as an integral part of effective community policing.National Night Out stands as a beacon of unity and trust-building, paving the way for a future where the line between community members and police is bridged by mutual respect and understanding.