In the last month, there have been nearly five
hundred crimes reported by the Nashville police department just in the Edgehill
neighborhood alone. In response, the Drug-Free South is ramping up its efforts
to promote healthy living and a drug-free way of life. The group took part in
National Night Out Against Crime, working with community members and police to
put an end to rampant crime and drug violations.
Night Out Against Crime is meant to stop crime
before it starts. It was designed to heighten awareness; generate support for,
and participation in, local anticrime programs; strengthen neighborhood spirit
and police-community partnerships; and send a message to criminals letting them
know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back, according to natw.org.
This year marks the 32nd annual event held to
combat drug use and prevent crime. This is the 7th year that Drug-Free South has
participated in the Nashville festivities. Neighborhoods frequently celebrate
with a mix of food, dancing, information booths and crime forums to help
promote safer living. And this year was no different.
Gathering in the community room at Gernert Studio
apartments, several policemen, firemen, pastors and government men met with
Edgehill residents to talk positive strategies that will bring about change for
the neighborhood. Brian Fesler, regional coordinator for the Drug-Free South,
was among those on the panel and shared information about the Truth About Drugs
materials and how community members can benefit from using these materials.
Fesler showed the Truth About Drugs booklets,
educator curriculum and more, and shared that these materials are available
free of charge. “These materials are meant to be spread around and used by
anyone and everyone. Law enforcement can arrest after it happens--we need to
work together to prevent it,” he said.
For more information on National Night Out, visit
natw.org. For more information on Drug-Free South or to order materials,
visit drugfreesouth.org.
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