Campbell River Crime Stoppers Wins International Award for Engagement

Campbell River Crime Stoppers has achieved significant recognition by winning the prestigious 2025 Community Engagement & Awareness Award from Crime Stoppers International. This international accolade highlights the organization’s successful efforts in revitalizing its community outreach after facing challenges that nearly led to its closure during the pandemic.

Established in 1997, Campbell River Crime Stoppers has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past two years. The organization, which serves a community of up to 300,000 residents, focused on modernizing its messaging and leveraging social media to enhance its connection with the public. As a result of these initiatives, the Crime Stoppers program has experienced a substantial 28 percent increase in tips, demonstrating the effectiveness of clear communication and digital engagement.

Revitalizing Community Engagement

In its announcement, Crime Stoppers International commended Campbell River Crime Stoppers for its proactive approach. “We are proud to congratulate the 2025 winner – Campbell River Crime Stoppers, Canada – for its successful revitalization of the program, the modernization of its messaging, and the embrace of social media,” the organization stated. This recognition underscores the power of community trust and outreach in fulfilling the Crime Stoppers mission.

Presenting the award, Anais Barnes, a representative of Campbell River Crime Stoppers, emphasized the broader significance of this achievement. “It shows that even small communities can achieve world-class results when people unite around public safety,” she remarked. The award not only reflects the hard work of the organization but also the support of the community it serves.

Community Impact and Future Directions

The recognition by Crime Stoppers International serves as a reminder of the vital role that local organizations play in enhancing public safety. The increased volume of tips received indicates a growing trust among community members, which is essential for the effective functioning of such initiatives.

With plans to continue expanding its outreach efforts, Campbell River Crime Stoppers aims to maintain and build upon this momentum. The organization’s focus on modern communication strategies and community engagement will likely set a precedent for similar initiatives across Canada and beyond.

As communities worldwide grapple with the challenges of crime and safety, the success of Campbell River Crime Stoppers serves as an inspiring example of how dedication and innovation can lead to impactful change.