WNYers, officials join for "National Night Out"

It was day of celebration for Western New Yorkers and thousands of other communities throughout the country.

Government officials, first responders and neighbors all gathered together in celebration and support of National Night Out. 

This annual community building campaign promotes police-community partnerships, while strengthening neighborhood camaraderie through activities like block parties, carnivals and socialization.

In light of national controversies involving police and the communities they serve, hundreds gathered outside of the Martha Mitchell Community Center on Buffalo's Eastside to spread a different message - one about positivity.

Mayor Byron Brown, Police Commissioner Daniel Derenda and Fire Commissioner Garnell Whitfield were all in attendance and collectively spoke about the importance of collaboration in an effort to better our community and our city. 

In addition to the events at Martha Mitchell Community Center, nearly 150 other block parties and festivities took place in celebration of the campaign.