Crime Stoppers of Houston is a non-profit organization whose mission is to solve and prevent crime in the Greater Houston area, in partnership with citizens, media and the criminal justice system. Crime Stoppers of Houston is the nation’s leader in public safety and the most effective organization of its kind – serving an area with a population of over 6.18 million and geographically larger than thirty-two states. Founded in 1980 by Houston Area business leaders as a solution to rising crime rates, Crime Stoppers of Houston was originally created to operate the famed Tip Line, 713-222-TIPS. The Tip Line solves crime through anonymous tips in partnership with law enforcement agencies. Through the Tip Line, thousands of crimes have been solved and millions of dollars have been paid out in rewards. Albeit less known, equally as valuable as Crime Stoppers of Houston’s crime-solving function are its crime-prevention practices. Their Safe Community Program and Safe School Institute aim to reduce overall criminal activity through specific targeted educational programming.