Longtime volunteer Donna Culver is always eager to help others. She’s even played a role in fighting crime.
Culver is a charter member of the Allen County Crime Stoppers, an organization that provides anonymous tips to law enforcement. Some tips can lead to a monetary award.
It’s just one of her many efforts to help the community.
After retiring from Allen Community College in 1994, Culver became an avid volunteer, from the American Red Cross to the American Legion Auxiliary, to helping at her church, delivering meals, working with youth and more.
Now, at age 88, she has cut back on most duties, ready to hang up her metaphorical badge.
“I just don’t have the energy anymore,” she said.
It’s a well-earned rest.
The past year sort of eased her into retirement. The COVID-19 pandemic meant she had to stay home. Meetings were canceled. Events postponed.
Turns out, it’s not so difficult to stay home. There’s still plenty to keep her busy. On Wednesday morning, as she was being interviewed for this article, Culver was also baking oatmeal cookies to take to a church quilting group meeting later that evening.
“I’m enjoying my retirement and spending time in my home and my garden,” Culver said. “I like being at home.”
CRIME STOPPERS was one of the last volunteer groups Culver gave up.
She’s one of the longest serving, original members and a former president.
She first joined a local group with a similar mission, which later joined the national organization. A national hotline improved the process for anonymity. Callers whose tips lead to a reward are assigned a number, and can make arrangements to pick up the reward without revealing their identity.
“It’s totally secure,” Culver said.
Crime Stoppers doesn’t make arrests. They collect tips and pass them on to law enforcement, who investigate and determine if the information is relevant. Calls sometimes come in for other counties or other agencies, and those are passed on to the appropriate department.
