The Greene County Alliance is bringing families together for a night of community connection, mentorship, and fun at Safe Nite Out, a family-friendly event aimed at fostering positive relationships between youth, first responders, and community organizations.

The event is slated for Aug. 5 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the Roy Clark Community Building in Linton.

Organizers say this year’s event, traditionally operated as National Night Out, was made possible thanks to the efforts of the Greene County Alliance’s network of systems of care partners and the strong collaboration with Linton Police Chief Paul Clark.

“This would not be possible without the GCA coming together,” said Wendy Bailey, a representative from the group. “The partnership with Chief Clark is what makes this such a great event!”

Safe Nite Out will feature more than 25 vendors offering giveaways, resources, and interactive booths. Children and families will receive a “passport” to get stamped at each vendor table. Once completed, they can visit the volunteer table to receive a wristband for free admission into a family pool party at the A.M. Risher Pool hosted by United Way of South Central Indiana.

Other highlights include:

Free hot dog meals provided by the Linton Masonic Lodge No. 560, featuring chips and drinks
Music and sound by Goodson DJ Service, who is donating his time for the event
Emergency vehicles and personnel from local law enforcement, EMS, and fire departments
Small prizes, games, and community giveaways

Mayor John Preble also contributed to the effort by donating use of the Roy Clark Community Building for vendor activities. Glenburn Home is providing both volunteers and supplies.

The volunteer planning committee, described as “small but mighty,” includes: William T. Murphy Community and Wellness Center (Glenburn), Jennifer Knight of the Greene County Ambulance Service, of Jamie Martin of French Financial Agency, Cassandra Arthur of Greene County Soil and Water Conservation District, and Nikki White of Linton.

The event offers a chance for children to meet local first responders in a fun, non-emergency setting—a positive connection that organizers say is especially meaningful in the wake of the May 16 tornado that impacted the community.

“Our youth are the future of these critical roles in our community,” Bailey said. “It’s great for them to meet local heroes now, build mentorships, and see firsthand the support systems around them.”

If you’d like to get your business or organization involved, organizers are still accepting: vendors, children’s games and activities, volunteers for setup and teardown, and sponsors to help with prizes and supplies

Community partners already signed up include: United Way of South Central Indiana, Glenburn Home, Families Forever, Middle Way House, Caresource, Family Life Center, Greene County Shrine Club, ViaQuest Hospice, Diwanis Club of South Central Indiana, Greene County General Hospital, DCS Foster Care, Aqua Logistics, Greene County Soil and Water Conservation District, Farmers and Mechanics Federal, Greene County Veteran Service Office, Greene County Ambulance Service, Greene County Health Department, Hamilton Center, Greene County Sheriff’s Department, Olive Branch Baptist Church — with more joining daily.

For more information on how to get involved or to become a vendor, contact the Greene County Alliance on Facebook or reach out through the event’s Facebook page.