~ by Benjamin Rutherford
Paradise, “Pura Vida”, and “tuanis” are just a few of the ways people describe living in Costa Rica. We are all drawn to life in the Costa Ballena region for different reasons such as a slower pace of living, getting more in tune with nature, increasing an active lifestyle, or ‘living the dream’ of a tropical expat. But many new and old community members can be disillusioned quickly if they become a victim of crime.
To avoid this, and continue to maintain our “Pura Vida”, CAP On Crime was created. The volunteer organization and community based initiative was started 8 years ago by a few motivated expats with a vision for a safer community.
Over the years, CAP (Crime Awareness and Prevention) has installed and maintained security cameras throughout the Dominical community, supported local police financially to keep vehicles on the roads patrolling our neighbourhoods and beaches from Dominical to Ojochal, renovated police stations, and supported the construction of the new Uvita Police Station.
CAP has grown over the years to include an education element through Facebook and e-mail blasts with safety and crime-avoidance tips, crime updates and warnings, and encouraging communities to start neighbourhood watch programs.
Using “realtime” smartphone apps like WhatsApp, communities report suspicious activity, robberies, concerns, and other valuable information. The slogan “Be Aware, not Afraid,” is a better path to “Pura Vida”.
Protecting and educating the community’s youth is key for a safe future. CAP has been involved with the Uvita Youth Centre, fun Bingo Nights used to gather the local community to discuss our goals, camera installation at the Uvita high school to scare away drug dealers approaching the kids, and many other projects.
All of this is made possible through the work of the CAP Board and volunteers; and most importantly, donations from individuals and businesses.
INFO: ‘Like’ the CAP on Crime Facebook page – Donaciones / donations to CAP via Paypal at caponcrime@gmail.com
