I’m so excited to be speaking at Courage Worldwide’s Global Sex Trafficking Summit, The Response, in February!

 

If you’ve been here for a while, you know how I first got involved with the issue of child trafficking. And you know how helping at Courage Worlwide has changed my life, and my dreams.

The more I use my passion and talents for these kids who are rescued, the more I know I am living my life’s purpose. (It’s an incredible thing when you are able to pursue your dreams and use your gifts to help others.)

It changes lives, including your own.

The issue of trafficking has rocked my world and touched my everyday experiences. When you become aware of the fact that around 4.5 million people around the world are being trafficked for sex and 98% of them are women and children (2012 California Human Trafficking Report), it changes you.

And then when you learn that, in the United States alone, 100,000 to 300,000 domestic children are being trafficked (and that number isn’t even close to the real statistics because this is such a hidden crime),

you’re stunned.

And then…

you learn that kids in your own city and neighborhood are being trafficked,

right now,

this very minute,

and you can’t not get involved.

At least that’s what happened for me.

And here I am, a few years after joining the fight against trafficking, with my eyes wide open to the reality of what so many children face,

and with my heart on fire to help.

And I want to invite you to join me.

If this tugs at your heart like it did mine, and you want to get involved or learn more, join me at The Response, or visit Courage Worldwide’s website. There are so many ways you can help, whether you’re a mom, dad, writer, editor, illustrator, teacher, student, doctor, lawyer, business owner, professional–no matter what your role or walk of life is, you can help.

I know the issue of child trafficking is hard, and even paralyzing sometimes, but you can make a difference.  Whether you want to learn more about the issue and to help spread the word, do something in your community to raise funds for these kids, make a donation, use your skills, volunteer… there really is an opportunity for everyone to have an impact.

And that’s exactly what The Response is about – providing inspiration, information, resources, and practical steps on how everyone can respond to the issue of trafficking, and make a difference. (There is an amazing lineup of experts and speakers  and the event is going to be awesome!) If you have any questions about it, feel free to email me or leave a comment and I’ll be sure to get back to you!

I believe in a world where children will not be trafficked. Will you believe with me?

*Find out more about The Response and register here. I would love to see you there and meet you!

**Please share this post and help me spread the word!