Neighbors connect during Night to Unite
Owatonna Fire Department gave kids and adults alike a look inside one of their fire trucks during Night to Unite on Aug. 5. Staff photo by Makenzie Oltmans
Residents across Steele County gathered Aug. 9 for Night to Unite, an annual event helps strengthen bonds between neighbors, law enforcement and other emergency workers.
Sue Bowcock and Jean Omalley have been volunteering for Night to Unite at Associated Church for the past five years.
“It gives everyone an opportunity to get to know your neighbors and become acquainted with resources,” Omalley said.
Local organizations that supported Associated Church and their Night to Unite efforts included The Lighthouse of Southern MN, Transitional Housing, Rainbowatonna, and more.
The Wickmans hosted their own get-together on McIndoe Street for Night to Unite. They thought it would be a good chance to connect and meet with new neighbors.
“It is our first time hosting in a while, but we wanted to host because of the turnover of new people in the area,” Jenni Wickman said.
Holly Hulle, an annual Night to Unite attendee, said the event allows for the community to learn and engage with the updates and new technology from the police and fire departments. Her daughter, Nessa Hulle, looks forward to the event every year and is always eager for the tours of the police cars and fire trucks.