Crime Stoppers racing for funds in May
By Chris Simon

Buy a blanket, support Crime Stoppers.

On May 3, Crime Stoppers of Simcoe- Dufferin-Muskoka will host a race night at Georgian Downs, with proceeds raised benefitting the organization's various crime fighting initiatives.

Residents and businesses are being asked to help raise funds in several ways. Horse blankets can be sponsored for $325 in one of the 10 races scheduled, and tickets for the event can be purchased for $40.

Door prize donations will also be accepted, said Barb Baguley, director of Crime Stoppers' South Simcoe Committee.

"So far, we've sold two (blankets), the earlier people get their sponsorships in, they can choose a race," she said.

"We're looking for people in the community who might be interested, obviously businesses in the South Simcoe community, but anywhere is certainly welcome to do a sponsorship. It's good for the company, and it's good for Crime Stoppers."

Blankets will be bordered with the sponsoring company's name, and participants will be invited into the winner's circle for a photograph with the winning horse, owner and jockey.

Companies will also be acknowledged for donating door prizes, said Baguley.

"The blankets that can be sponsored are awarded to the winning horse of each race and taken into other racetracks and hung in stables. It gives companies that sponsor an opportunity to have their name taken places they normally wouldn't," she said. "It's a way to be part of the community. It's a way to reach a huge amount of people, have fun and hopefully raise money for Crime Stoppers."

Tickets for the event include a buffet dinner, free racing program and a ticket for the door prize draws. The event promises to be entertaining, and will help support a good cause, said Baguley.

"It's an opportunity for fundraising and also for showcasing the sponsor's company," she said. "It makes a nice evening all around."

Baguley says the organization hosts several fundraising events throughout the year. However, this will be the first race night hosted by Crime Stoppers at Georgian Downs.

"Crime Stoppers is looking to raise the profile of the work they do in the community, Georgian Downs offers a huge venue and large attendance," she said. "There will be an information table and an opportunity to chat with people and answer a few questions."

Crime Stoppers is a registered, non-profit charitable organization that works with the police, media and residents to make local communities safe.

For more information, call Baguley at 458-9358.