Brentwood seeks unity in barbecue and cleanup

A group of Brentwood residents is hoping a series of cleanup and barbecue events at local parks will help keep neighborhoods safe and inspire community members to look out for one another.

On Saturday, the Brentwood Association of Concerned Citizens will host the latest event at Freeman Avenue Park in Brentwood from 3 to 8 p.m.

“The concept is to push out the crime, violence and deviance,” said Tito Burrowes, a member of the group. “We want to talk about community solidarity and ensure that the park is safe for the kids.”

Organizers hope, through the meetings at the parks, residents will take an active role in their blocks by forming neighborhood watch groups and keeping abreast of local happenings, said Burrowes, 43, a New York City school principal.

Saturday’s event, which is free and open to the public, will feature food donated by various community members, he said.

“We are utilizing the parks to get into the communities,” Burrowes said. “Every season, we are trying to select one park in Brentwood to keep building this.”