CENTRE WELLINGTON – Crime Stoppers Guelph ɫشý(CSGW) recently showed its appreciation to its supporters, including a long-serving board member and a local media outlet.
“We are here tonight because, as I like to say, we just don’t say ‘thank you’ enough,” said CSGW board chair Dave Elloway, who greeted the group along with past chair Deryck West.
At the Jan. 8 appreciation dinner at the ɫشýCounty Museum and Archives, the CSGW board of directors hosted dignitaries, volunteers and other supporters who have demonstrated support for the local program.
Following dinner, CSGW board chair Dave Elloway presented the 2024 OACS Media award for Best Radio Feature to Rob Dutton and McKim Ecclestone, of Swap Talk on The Grand at 101.
The program, which is the only live talk show in ɫشýCounty, was recognized in 2024 for the work done with CSGW.
Additionally, CSGW celebrated Dennis Craven, who stepped down from the board of directors last year after 11 years of representation for Township of Mapleton.
Craven, who has been a staunch supporter of Crime Stoppers, was presented with a plaque, a fruit basket and advised he was receiving “honorary board member” status.
Craven acknowledged the honour and said he is proud of the work done by CSGW and enjoyed his time as a volunteer.
Elizabeth Kent, executive director of Victim Services Wellington, was given the 2024 Cornerstone Award for outstanding contributions to CSGW.
Volunteers appreciated
Dignitaries in attendance included Guelph Police Service Chief Gord Cobey and ɫشýCounty OPP Detachment Commander Inspector Stephen Thomas.
Both expressed appreciation for the work of CSGW volunteers and noted the unique and proactive work the local program is doing in the area of crime prevention and community safety.
They also commended the program on the networking and collaborative partnerships developed at the dinner.
Program coordinator Sarah Bowers-Peter pointed out the outstanding support of local police services boards is paramount to the success of CSGW.
“We are able to do the things we do because of the support from ɫشýCounty Police Services Board and Guelph Police Services Board because we have two full-time staff who are able to dedicate the time and energy to Crime Stoppers, which is not something many programs across Ontario can do,” said Bowers-Peter.
“For that, and I’m sure the board would agree, we thank you.”
Guests at the event included volunteers in the Friends of Crime Stoppers program, individuals who attend events throughout the year, and local media and business representatives who have supported CSGW.