The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office and community volunteers are continuing to join forces to raise much-needed funds to operate the local Crime Stoppers program.

“All of our efforts help provide the financial means for tips from the public,” said Lt. Kelly Cox, Crime Stoppers coordinator for Beaufort County. “Fundraising gives us the steady donations that help keep Crime Stoppers going. The program is run 100 percent through donations.”

Recently, deputies and Crime Stoppers volunteers served as wait staff for a fundraiser hosted by Pizza Inn of Washington; that event, according to Cox, brought in over $700 for Crime Stoppers. Last fall, the organization hosted its annual pork loin fundraising dinner.

Now, efforts are underway to present this year’s Crime Stoppers golf tournament, planned for April 19 at the Washington Yacht & Country Club, Cox noted.

A raffle held in conjunction with the golf tournament offers a variety of prizes.

First prize is a Wilmington Cape Fear Jr. stainless steel grill with a retail value of approximately $1,000. According to Cox, the grill was generously donated by Tideland Energy.

Second prize is a Yeti 45 cooler valued at $350 and provided by Nauti-Life. Third prize is $100 in cash.

Smaller prizes, including merchandise and gift certificates provided by area merchants, will also be awarded at the conclusion of the raffle. Winning tickets will be drawn the day of the golf tournament.

“These are probably some of the best prizes we’ve had in a long time, due to the contributions we’ve had,” Cox said.

Tickets are one for $3, two for $5 or five for $10. Tickets may be purchased in advance at the sheriff’s office on Market Street in Washington.

Cox said Crime Stoppers is still looking for additional raffle donations as well as golfers to participate in the tournament.

“We have room for 25 teams and there are a few spots still open,” he said. “Anyone interested may pick up a brochure at the sheriff’s office. We’re also looking for businesses for hole-n-tee sponsorships. Their signs will be placed around the course during the tournament.”

For more information, contact Cox at kcox@co.beaufort.nc.us.