As a way to enhance the relationship between communities and law enforcement, several police agencies around the country recently took part in National Night Out, an annual community-building campaign held on the first Tuesday in August that promotes local partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie. The event, which first began in 1984, is a great way for officers to connect with the residents they serve. Many agencies held interactive demonstrations, handed out fun freebies and enjoyed a meal with attendees. More importantly, the event helped show law enforcement in a positive light and left a memorable impression on the community’s young people.

“National Night Out was incredible!” the Foster City, California, Police Department posted on Facebook. “Thank you, Foster City, for showing up and enjoying a beautiful evening with us! We can’t wait to hang out with you again.”

In Connecticut, the Brookfield Police Department got residents’ competitive juices flowing by hosting an intense cornhole tournament, with the winning team receiving $400. The department also raised “several thousand dollars for Special Olympics Connecticut, and none of it would have been possible without the support from our local businesses and participating members of the community,” the department wrote on Facebook.

Here’s a selection of National Night Out photos shared by law enforcement agencies on social media.