Crime Stoppers Houston Fights Hard to Give Back

It is no coincidence that one of the last social events of the spring season was also among the most impactful. Earlier this month, hundreds of Houstonians gathered for Crime Stoppers’ Houston’s Heroes Awards Luncheon at the Royal Sonesta Hotel. This annual event celebrates distinguished community members who go above and beyond to make sure this wonderful city is a safe place to call home. This year, Crime Stoppers honored seven individuals who have gone to extraordinary heights for their community; Constable Ted Heap, Senator Joan Huffman, Senator John Whitmire, Former Crime Stoppers Chairman Fenner Weller, Representative John Zerwas, M.D., Alan Helfman, Scott Aronstein, and Donae Cangelosi Chramosta.

The event raises funds for the crime prevention programs and safety initiatives that are so important for ensuring security in schools and communities alike. Crime stoppers CEO Rania Mankarious gave the crowd heartfelt remarks at how the non-profit has grown in numbers and support.

“This luncheon was particularly meaningful this year as it reflected men and women from completely different walks of life coming together in the interest of public safety. From law enforcement to business owners to elected officials to entrepreneurial mothers, all stood together to say that the public safety of our homes, schools, businesses, neighborhoods and neighbors is required and deserves our attention. What a fitting message from the collaborative forward minded community that is the heart of Houston.”

Rania has been CEO of the organization since 2013, but began consulting with Crime Stoppers in 2006. She has expanded the reach of the Safe School Program, has overseen the launch of Parents Against Crime and built the first-ever Crime Stoppers headquarters right in the heart of the city. She is a wife, mother, writer, Public Safety Expert and CEO. She is passionate about families and the stories they tell. The mother of three is a supporter of LCAHouston and embraces her Egyptian heritage. A while back, Rania and her sister actually started an international fashion magazine called Platinum. Following 9-11, the publishing and fashion industry were hit very hard, so Rania went on to earn her law degree from University of Houston. This passionate go-getter is very proud of her community and is more than thankful for her ability to give back.

Spotted in the crowd were City of Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg, Harris County Attorney Vince Ryan, Harris County Clerk Stan Stanart, FBI Special Agent in Charge Perrye Turner, Houston Police Department Lieutenant Tiffany Jefferson, Brigitte Kalai, Sippi Khurana, Maha Rasheed, Susan Boggio, Tama Lundquist, Tena Faust, Mandy Kao, and Joy Sewing.