Curbing crime in your neighbourhood starts with a simple “hello.”
TerryLee Ropchan, executive director of the Central Alberta Crime Prevention Centre, said residents often get frustrated about situations in neighbourhoods but do not realize they can do simple things to help prevent crime.
Ropchan said when you know your neighbours you are more likely to look out for them.
“Then we have things people can do to beautify their neighbourhoods to make them better,” said Ropchan, at the Crime Prevention Week kick off on Saturday.
“We started with the graffiti wipes this year.
“We wanted to address some of the issues that we hear people talking about.”
Graffiti wipes are available for purchase at the Centre’s office near the downtown RCMP detachment.
This week the spotlight will be on crime prevention as the annual Crime Prevention Week is observed from May 12 to 18.
Throughout the week there several opportunities for residents to learn about the crime fighting and safety resources in the community.
New this year is today’s Crime Prevention Showcase at the downtown RCMP building (4602-51st Avenue).
Residents will have the chance to mingle with police officers and volunteers and learn about different programs and career and volunteer opportunities.
Volunteers from organizations such as Victims Services, Search and Rescue and Red Deer Neighbourhood Watch will be on hand to answer questions.
“Come and find out some information about some different organizations,” said Ropchan.
This summer, the Centre staff will be busy spreading the word of crime prevention and safety at Red Deer’s public market and conducting weekly random acts of kindness and holding community conversations at public spots in the city.
“We want to sit down with people and talk to them about what’s happening in their neighbourhood,” said Ropchan.
“Some of the conservations may be geared to specific topics because we want to gauge public perception of what’s happening.
“Most conversations will be open to allow people to have that voice.
“We think that’s something that is missing right now.”
Ropchan wants to ensure residents know they are here to help put them in the right direction.
Crime Prevention Week Activities:
l Monday — Crime Prevention Showcase runs from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the downtown RCMP station (4602-51st Avenue) n (today)
l Central Alberta Crime Prevention Centre (#108, 4711-51st Avenue) hosts an open house from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday
For more information go to www.cacpc.ca and to report graffiti call 403-356-8908.
crhyno@www.reddeeradvocate.com