The Park Forest Police Department is hosting two community-focused events during the first week of August to help strengthen relationships between residents and officers.
On Tuesday, Aug. 5, the department will participate in National Night Out, a nationwide initiative designed to build partnerships between police and the community. The annual event encourages neighborhood camaraderie and promotes safer, more connected communities.
Police Chief Brian Rzyski has been encouraging residents to organize block parties as part of the celebration. Officers will be stopping by several of those gatherings throughout the evening.
“Having officers visit block parties is a great way for us to engage with residents in a relaxed and positive environment,” Rzyski said.
The following evening, on Wednesday, Aug. 6, the department will host its annual Unity Day Celebration beginning at 5 p.m. on the Village Green, located at the corner of Main Street and Cunningham Drive.
Unity Day will be held in conjunction with Park Forest’s Main Street Nights, the Village’s popular outdoor concert series. More than 500 meals will be served as part of the festivities, and families can enjoy bounce houses, live music, and police vehicles on display.
“Unity Day is a fantastic event because it offers something for everyone,” Rzyski said. “We’ll have food, bounce houses, live music, and more.”
Local performers will take the Main Street Nights stage at 6:30 p.m., followed by a performance by Chicago native and vocalist Fredi Taylor at 7:30 p.m.