Crime Stoppers Guelph Wellington (CSGW) 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 January 8, 2025, Appreciation Dinner at the Wellington County Museum and Archives, the CSGW Board of Directors hosted dignitaries, volunteers and other supporters who have demonstrated support of 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 Wellington County, 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 advised he was proud of the work done by CSGW and enjoyed his time as a volunteer.
Elizabeth Kent, Executive Director of Victim Services Wellington, was named to the 2024 Cornerstone Award for outstanding contributions to CSGW. For more information on this annual recognition, go to www.csgw.tips .
Dignitaries in attendance included Guelph Police Service Chief Gord Cobey, and Wellington County 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 and witnessed 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 Wellington County 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. For that, and I’m sure the Board would agree, we thank you,” said Bowers-Peter
Guest 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.
