ABOUT US

When was your group formed and how has it evolved over the years?

The Committee was formed in 1993 and was initiated by the OPP to assist in dealing with policing issues. Neighbourhood Watch was subsequently added. In recent years the Committee has focused on liaison between the community and the OPP, and the provision of helpful information to residents by means of an annual Information Evening. The Neighbourhood Watch program continues for Ipperwash and area, with Block Captains keeping an eye on their neighbours' properties to promote safety and security.

In what ways does your group contribute to society (i.e. programs, events, services, etc.)?

The Ipperwash and Area CSC hosts an annual Information Evening where speakers from various local organizations address topics of benefit to the community. Topics in recent years have included computer and telephone scams, bike and water safety, ATV rules and regulations, smuggling, identity theft and fraud. Information tables are also set up for residents to gather pamphlets and ask questions of organization representatives.

Last year, those in attendance received a fridge magnet with contact information for assistance with a policing issue.

The Ipperwash and Area CSC also assists residents by sending letters to the Municipality on specific areas of concern. The Crimestoppers signs on Lakeshore Road at Townsend Line, and on Ipperwash Road are also maintained by the Committee.

The Neighbourhood Watch program is a network of volunteers in the community. They contribute to the safety and security of residents in Ipperwash and area by looking out for their neighbours and reporting any incidents that they become aware of. Email alerts are sent to all Block Captains by the Committee as required.

Do you currently have any programs or projects underway, or any in the future, and how can the community participate?

The Committee is currently seeking more members to sit on the Committee as well as additional Block Captains for Neighbourhood Watch. Interested residents are invited to participate and contribute to community safety in either of these roles.

The Committee may expand to include other areas of the Municipality of Lambton Shores. If this occurs, additional residents will be needed to represent and participate in their respective areas.

How can people get involved in your organization?

Residents interested in assisting with community safety in Ipperwash and area can contact:

Where and when does your group meet?

The Committee meets at the Port Franks Community Centre at 7:30 p.m. during the months of January, March, May, June, July, August, September and November.

Additional information:

Although incidents of crime in Ipperwash and area have dropped dramatically in recent years, community safety concerns are ongoing in nature. The Committee is available to assist as needed and to help improve the quality of life in the area.

The Ipperwash Area CSC consists of an Executive (Chair, Vice-Chair, Treasurer and Secretary) as well as members at large. The geographical boundaries of the Committee at present are: Ipperwash area east of Kettle and Stoney Point First Nation, west of Army Camp Road and North of Highway 21, as well as the communities of Lake Valley Grove, Sunnidale, Pine Tree Estates, Cedarview, Glendale and Lakeview Haven. The area is bounded by the Lake Huron shoreline.