FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
St. Thomas Police Service Launches Revitalized CRU-SADER Youth Engagement Initiative
St. Thomas, ON – September 6, 2024
The St. Thomas Police Service (STPS) is excited to announce the relaunch of our community-policing program, now rebranded as the CRU-SADER Youth Engagement Initiative. This revitalized initiative is part of our ongoing commitment to strengthen relationships with local youth, especially those considered at risk, through modernized, community mobilization efforts.
Originally introduced in the late 90s and early 2000s, the CRU-SADER Youth Engagement Initiative continues its mission of supporting the health and well-being of young people in St. Thomas. While the aim of the program remains the same, the methods have evolved to better address the challenges facing today’s youth.
“Our community is at the heart of everything we do, and building stronger connections with our young people is critical to both preventing crime and fostering positive relationships,” said Chief Marc Roskamp. “The rebranding of the CRU-SADER Initiative represents our modern approach to community policing—one that focuses on proactive engagement and partnership.”
The CRU-SADER Initiative emphasizes collaboration with parents, youth social workers, and community stakeholders to address issues such as youth victimization and criminality. Through innovative programming and education, the initiative seeks to provide youth with positive role models, resources, and guidance, while engaging them in non-traditional, community-based environments outside of schools.
Key elements of the CRU-SADER Youth Engagement Initiative include:
- T.H.I.N.K. Initiative – A digital awareness program encouraging young people to be mindful before posting online. T.H.I.N.K. asks youth to consider: Is it True? Is it Hurtful? Is it Illegal? Is it Necessary? Is it Kind?
- CRU-SADER Boredom Buster Events – Year-round events designed to foster positive engagement between youth and the community.
- Values/Influences/Peers (VIP) Program – Educational sessions that promote responsible decision-making, positive social behavior, and the importance of community values.
In addition, the CRU-SADER Youth Engagement Initiative will work closely with the Mobile Outreach Support Team (MOST), a joint effort between STPS and the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA), to support vulnerable youth in the community.
Revitalized CRU – SADER 2024
CRU – SADER Circa 2000
