Some may frown on taking a day off to play a round of golf, but not on April 29, when Beaufort County Crime Stoppers tournament players take off their suit coats and hit the green for a great cause: crime prevention.

At 1 p.m. April 29, 25 teams of golfers will participate in the fundraiser at Washington Yacht & Country Club, one that provides Crime Stoppers’ tip payouts for the year. So far 19 teams have signed on to play, according to Crime Stoppers board member Michael Bilbro, and with only six team slots available, those interested in playing should sign up soon.

The annual fundraiser draws business people and residents alike, all working toward a common goal: making sure crime is lessened in the community, Bilbro said.

“Historically, (the community) has been extremely supportive, over the years, of Crime Stoppers. Businesses and just people in general understand the importance of it,” Bilbro said.

Crime Stoppers is a privately funded nonprofit for which the focus is crime prevention. Tipsters can remain anonymous via text, phone call or email, at the same type passing information about crimes and criminals on to law enforcement. When tips lead to an arrest, after a review by the Crime Stoppers Board, often tipsters are given cash rewards. In 2012, Crime Stoppers tips led to 62 arrests in Beaufort County, as well as the recovery of over $25,000 of property.

The annual golf tournament is Crime Stoppers’ only major fundraiser and a great excuse to spend a weekday on the course. Bilbro explained that the tournament is held on a weekday — in this case, a Tuesday — because organizers have found that weekend participation can be spotty, but those committed to the cause don’t mind taking a day off to play golf.

The fee for a team of four players is $300; individuals can sign up for $75 per person. Both mulligans (second chances at a shot) and tee busters (where a player can take their shot at a forward tee) can be purchased.

Included are a raffle and dinner provided by Washington Yacht & Country Club, along with refreshments.

Bilbro said sponsorship opportunities for local businesses are still available: $160 will get a business’s sign prominently displayed at a hole, with the Crime Stoppers team providing the signage.

For more information or to sign up, call Michael Bilbro at 252-702-7700 or email him at micbilbro@yahoo.com. Registration begins at noon on the day of the tournament.