By Tim Jimenez

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Community groups across the country held walks, block parties and other events against crime in honor of “National Night Out.”

A youth marching band leading dozens in a 2.5 mile stroll through several neighborhoods starting in Francisville at the Arts Garage, a youth performance center owned by Ola Solanke.

“People have to take ownership and interest in the development and safety and security of their neighborhood. That’s the message we’re trying to get out today.

Several community development corporations like Fairmount, Brewerytown and Strawberry Mansion put the stroll together. They were joined by local organizations like Philadelphia Ceasefire.

“Violence is an issue, certainly a very important issue,” Director Marla Davis Bellamy said. “But one that we need to certainly be visible in the community in terms of having a presence.”

And hoping a certain group learns the most from nights like this one, is Barbara Kelly with the Francisville CDC.

“We really want the youth to understand that they are a big part of making it better.”