Police officers are people, too. That's part of the message of National Night Out, a nationwide event held to bring the community and first responders together in a fun and casual way.

Manheim will host a National Night Out celebration on Tuesday, Aug. 4, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. It will be held at the Manheim Farm Show Complex, 502 E. Adele Ave.

"National Night Out is a good way to help the community get to know some of our officers and have fun, too," said Scot Funk, mayor of Manheim. "It's a chance for everyone to see that police officers and other first responders are regular people. Our aim is for kids not to be hesitant to approach an officer if they need help."

The festivities will include a bounce house obstacle course, food from Piper Belle's BBQ and Twisted Sisters Ice Cream, coffee and snacks from Hope Served and more.

The Manheim Borough Police Department will have members and equipment on-site. Representatives and equipment from Penn State EMS, Manheim Fire Department and the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) will be on hand. Members of the Manheim road crew will also have equipment on-site, Funk said.

"We'll be holding a Stuff-a-Cruiser food drive for the Manheim Central Food Pantry," he added. "Consider bringing canned food or personal care items for that."

Ryan Yarnell, school resource officer, will present a program at 6:30 p.m. inside the Farm Show Complex. He will speak on the dangers of vaping.

Numerous community organizations, groups and nonprofits will have tables set up with information about their efforts as well. Participants will include Manheim Community Library; the Girl Scouts; the SPCA; Lancaster County Children and Youth Social Service Agency; Manheim Community Life Group; Hope Served; and people representing community health and wellness organizations, the state parole board and victim and witness services.

Held annually on the first Tuesday in August, National Night Out began in 1984 to promote police and community partnerships. The first year, 2.5 million people across 400 communities in 23 states participated in the event. Over the years, the celebration has grown to encompass 38 million people in 17,000 communities throughout the United States.

Funk said Manheim has been participating in the program for at least 13 years.

"National Night Out is a great way for us to strengthen the partnerships that keep our community safe," he said. "It's a great event for families."

He encourages everyone to come out for the festivities.

"Get out of the house for the evening and have fun, enjoy some ice cream and interact with the first responders," he commented. "Join us for conversations and community."

To learn more about National Night Out, visit https://natw.org. For more information on Manheim's National Night Out celebration, follow the Manheim Borough Police Department on Facebook.