Many of us hear about human trafficking through the media. We have seen a movie, TV show or read some article that explicitly details how traffickers kidnap women and children to sell for the purposes of sex. It is only through some research from reputable sources you find out that this type of human trafficking, while evoking emotions which is great for movies isn’t really a true reflection of what is actually occurring most often. Over 90% of the time, sex trafficking originates with an older boyfriend showing a romantic interest to a women or girl who is vulnerable for any number of reasons. There is a grooming process followed by force, fraud, and or coercion. As we continue to learn and process this deviant behavior,
manipulation, and selling of United States citizens in the United States for the purposes of sex and profit; it is only natural that as a human being you would want to respond and take action.
We all have the potential to donate three of our resources; time, talent, and money. Money is certainly needed, and with Redeem and Restore Center there are two ways to support the mission. A one-time donation or becoming a monthly giving partner. Both are very needed and appreciated! Visit our website www.redeemandrestore.org and click donate.
Volunteering your time and talents can evoke some questions and concerns:
I’m not qualified! I don’t have the strength, courage, wisdom, experience or education to help.
Redeem and Restore Center believes that your willingness to be available is what matters. Everyone has something to offer these survivors, whether it’s through direct contact is completely your decision. There is a wide variety of needs in an organization like Redeem and Restore Center. Volunteer activities range from raising awareness (passing out flyers), event planning, fundraising, administration, up to and including advocacy (working with survivors directly). As we continue to strive for a restorative care home, we continue to recruit volunteers of all ages, backgrounds, and both men and women. The application process is designed to help the volunteer and the Volunteer Coordinator to evaluate how best each volunteer can serve.
We are looking for volunteers who have:
- the ability to commit
- a sacrificial desire to serve
- a teachable spirit
- punctual
- modest in dress
- model purity of speech and model patience of tongue
Human Trafficking is such an overwhelming problem, how can we solve it?
Human Trafficking is a sin, and like all sin issues Jesus has already solved it. One day, there will be a new heaven and a new earth that is just as God intended. Does that mean we do nothing? No! While here in this broken world, we are called to love, support, and help the survivors in the restoration of their lives. While they have found freedom from their trafficker; like all of us, they are working through their pasts, their choices, and hoping for a better future on this earth and beyond.
I’m afraid! (I’m afraid I will be disappointed. I’m afraid I will disappoint others. I’m afraid to take a risk. I’m afraid to be vulnerable. I’m afraid I will have nothing in common with the survivors. I’m afraid I will say or do something offensive or improper.)
“Compassion is hard because it requires the inner disposition to go with others to the place where they are weak, vulnerable, lonely, and broken.” Author Henri Nouwen, Compassion: A reflection on the Christian Life.
Walking alongside others in their restoration process doesn’t require fearlessness or perfection. A willing heart in response to injustice is all that is necessary. There are no guarantees in any worthy life pursuit. However, as a team, Redeem and Restore is committed to walking along side and providing love, support, and help with restoration to survivors and volunteers alike.
We hope you will prayerfully consider joining us!
For volunteer opportunities, please visit our website at www.redeemandrestore.org
Stacy Kageff