On the surface, National Night Out appears to be about the community coming together and celebrating everything that is Manheim Township. But on a different level, it's a strengthening of a bond that already exists between citizens and the Manheim Township Police Department.

On Tuesday, Aug. 1, from 5:30 to 8 p.m., the Manheim Township Police Department will sponsor its 10th annual National Night Out at Manheim Township Community Park, 309 Petersburg Road, Lancaster. The evening's festive atmosphere will feature food, fun and games - and especially community pride.

National Night Out is a country-wide initiative designed to foster neighborhood relationships and police-community partnerships.

"I think (the bond is) strong and I think (the police and community) depend on each other," said Manheim Township Officer Natalie Littlehale, who's coordinating National Night Out. "We really came together during COVID. But I feel like the community has our back. I think the bond has always been strong. Even during the darkest days for other police forces, Manheim Township never let us down."

"It never faltered," continued Littlehale. "We can't do our job without the community. If we experienced the hatred that some other departments face, I'm not sure we'd have the great people we have. We have people who want to serve."

Littlehale will be one of seven Manheim Township police officers present, along with four civilian township employees, at National Night Out. Also there that night will be representatives from community service agencies like local fire departments and rescue departments, Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops and groups promoting bicycle safety and fire safety.

In addition, the evening will include music, yard games, drinks, hot dogs, ice cream and a special K-9 presentation.

"There's something for everyone, and there are so many things going on," said Littlehale. "It's going to be a fun, festive, see-your-neighbor, talk-to-people kind of event. The main purpose is to get everyone together and celebrate the amazing community we live in."

In 2022, more than 500 residents turned up for Manheim Township National Night Out.

"Last year was the largest event ever," said Littlehale. "I think this year is going to be even bigger. I want everyone to know that this is for them. Come out, celebrate with us, meet us, get to know the Manheim Township police officers. We want to meet you and hear your concerns."

Littlehale was the driving force behind the Manheim Township Police Department establishing a local night out. And because of her impending retirement, this year's will be the last one she attends as a police officer.

"The first few years we had it at Overlook Park, and it was a slow go," said Littlehale, who's spent her entire 27-year law enforcement career with the Manheim Township Police Department. "But it's kind of taken off. Next year, I'm going to - God willing - attend as a civilian and enjoy myself. I want to support anything that brings the community together."