Survive and Thrive

Economic Empowerment and Financial Management for Human Trafficking Survivors
2024-09-20 13:00 - 14:30 (America/New_York)
The Survive and Thrive Advocacy Center (STAC) Third Friday Training Webinar Series is dedicated to educating everyone about the critical issue of human trafficking. This interactive series aims to provide an in-depth understanding of the various facets of human trafficking, from its root causes and methods of operation to the profound impact it has on survivors, their families, workplaces, and society both in our home towns and worldwide.
Many human trafficking survivors face significant financial exploitation, leading to damaged credit, mistrust in financial institutions, and re-traumatization. Traffickers force them to open credit cards and other bank accounts in their names, steal their identities, force them to commit crimes, and destroy their credit. This can make it hard for a survivor to find a good job, a safe place to live, and move forward in their life. This program will provide survivors and those who are working with them the knowledge and tools to regain financial stability and independence.
Presenters will discuss:

Rebuilding Credit: Utilize the Debt Bondage Repair Act to effectively block negative items that resulted from trafficking on the survivors’ credit reports to improve credit scores.
Access Vital Resources: Identify key resources and initiatives, such as the Survivor Inclusion Initiative, that support financial inclusion.
Further Discussion on Rebuilding and Maintaining credit: Understand the steps to build and maintain good credit and savings.
Budget Effectively: Creating a budget and managing monthly expenses.
Utilize Benefits: Take advantage of available benefits from employers or other programs.

Download the presentation file here
Presenters:
Hollie Nadel
Hollie Nadel: Hollie Nadel is a positive, creative, compassionate individual with robust management and problem-solving skills. Early in her youth, Hollie had a clear passion for art, production, and design, leading her to a successful career in Costume Design and Wardrobe after graduating Cum Laude from Ithaca College with a BFA in Theatre Production Design. Hollie has since transitioned into a successful career in Human Resources, Operations, and Recruiting, launching her own small business last year. Hollie’s most impactful work is displayed through her efforts and dedication to the anti-trafficking movement. As a survivor of human trafficking, the mission of the movement is a deeply personal one for her. Hollie has worked alongside other anti-trafficking leaders, seeking protections and justice for fellow victims of human trafficking. Over the past five years, Hollie has prioritized enlightening others and raising awareness around the evolving realities of human trafficking. She has been a featured speaker for ACAMS AML Symposiums, Congressional briefings, NGA’s Criminal Justice Policy Advisor’s briefing on Human Trafficking, and workshops for mental health professionals to discuss trauma related to human trafficking. Additionally, Hollie has been a consultant for anti-trafficking organizations, including the Human Trafficking Legal Center, where she currently serves on the Advisory Board. She received her certification from the ACAMS/ Liechtenstein Initiative for Finance Against Slavery and Trafficking, provided survivor support for the Survivor Inclusion Initiative, and is currently working to pass additional anti-trafficking legislation.
Sarah Byrne
Sarah Byrne: Sarah Byrne is a partner with Moore & Van Allen PLLC in Charlotte, N.C. where she leads the firm’s Human Trafficking Prevention and Compliance Practice. This work includes leading a pro bono program that provides free legal representation to survivors of sex trafficking, forced labor and child sex abuse, and assisting organizations with related legal, regulatory and social obligations. At the national level, Sarah is a frequent conference speaker and advocate for legislative change in support of trafficking victims. She is a founding member of the National Survivor Law Collective, a national network of trauma-informed lawyers providing legal aid to survivors. Focusing on the intersection of human trafficking and the financial sector, Sarah works with national banks, the United Nation’s Finance Against Slavery and Trafficking (“FAST”) Initiative, and other agencies to increase survivor access to financial services, restored credit status and financial wellness.
Stanley Nadel
Stanley R. Nadel: Stanley R. Nadel was President and a Principal of Standard Pension Services, LLC. until July 2020. He began his career in 1975 and brings deep knowledge, expertise, and insight to his clients and colleagues alike. After graduating from Hofstra University with his Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA), Stan launched his financial services career at a major New York City bank in the employee and benefit trust department. During this time, he realized his passion for retirement plan design and began working at Standard Pension Services. Today, Stan specialized in retirement planning and administration, business planning, and personal estate planning. He constructs customized strategies that coordinate business and personal benefits for planning. His extensive knowledge and professional demeanor combined with his helpful, caring, and personal approach, deliver an exceptional client experience. This approach has produced long term client and professional relationships.
Stan and his wife live on the North Shore of Long Island and currently he is the President of Nadel Consulting, Inc.
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STAC needs your support to sustain these important webinars. Will you donate today? Each gift helps to bring this vital information to the many people who are empowering survivors and preventing human trafficking. The only way we can maintain these programs and this work is with YOUR help.
Suggested donation: $20

21st Annual International Human Trafficking & Social Justice Conference (Virtual)
2024-09-18 08:00 - 2024-09-20 17:00
Join us for our 21st Annual International Human Trafficking & Social Justice Conference hosted VIRTUALLY on September 18-20, 2024.
After a highly successful and special 20th annual conference, we are already gearing up for next year’s conference where we will continue to learn, connect, and collaborate with thousands from around the world!
Stay tuned on this email list and our website for more details and information.
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STAC needs your support to sustain these important webinars. Will you donate today? Each gift helps to bring this vital information to the many people who are empowering survivors and preventing human trafficking. The only way we can maintain these programs and this work is with YOUR help.
Suggested donation: $20

Human Trafficking Data Collection in Florida and the New BRIGHT Project
2024-08-16 13:00 - 14:30
The Survive and Thrive Advocacy Center (STAC) Third Friday Training Webinar Series is dedicated to educating everyone about the critical issue of human trafficking. This interactive series aims to provide an in-depth understanding of the various facets of human trafficking, from its root causes and methods of operation to the profound impact it has on survivors, their families, workplaces, and society both in our home towns and worldwide.
Webinar Overview:
Accurate and complete data collection has been a challenge facing our state, especially those working in human trafficking services, policy, advocacy, justice and social services systems and many more. Recently Florida has taken steps to address this need through work at the University of South Florida. Presenters from the USF will introduce and highlight the Trafficking in Persons Lab and two of the main projects housed within the lab: the Statewide Repository for Anonymous Human Trafficking Data (TIPSTR) and the BRIGHT Project. TIPSTR will provide Florida with a comprehensive and accurate picture of human trafficking incidents, hotspots, and trends. BRIGHT, a digital, vetted resource referral network will connect providers to one another while simultaneously providing and collecting information on resource availability and resource needs statewide. Taken together, these initiatives will allow for an understanding of the true scope of trafficking in Florida to inform anti-trafficking efforts across the state.
Download the BRIGHT Project Presentation Slides
Presenters:
Dr. Shelly M. Wagers
Kailey Pate Carter

Dr. Shelly M. Wagers, Associate Professor Criminology, Associate Director USF Trafficking In Persons Risk to Resilience Research Lab and BRIGHT Project Director.
Dr. Shelly M. Wagers is an Associate Professor of Criminology at the University of South Florida. Dr. Wagers has worked in the field of interpersonal violence for over 25 years: first as an advocate, then as a law enforcement officer and now as a scholar. Dr. Wagers’ primary research interests include examining the relationship between power, control and violence, along with developing evidence-based practices for policies and programs. Dr. Wagers has published her research in numerous top peer-reviewed journals such as Crime and Delinquency, Journal of Interpersonal Violence, Victims and Offenders, and Journal of Social and Interpersonal Relationships.
Dr. Wagers most recent applied work was completing a needs assessment for the USF Trafficking In Persons Lab. This consisted of hundreds of field interviews with community partners engaged in antitrafficking work throughout Florida. This led to the BRIGHT project, which seeks to address the service improvement goal of the USF TIP Lab through the establishment and maintenance of an interactive digital platform that will bring HT service providers together into an integrated coordinated network of care. Currently, Dr. Wagers is the Director of the BRIGHT project for the USF TIP Lab. Last year Dr. Wagers received funds from Hillsborough County to develop and test a pilot for BRIGHT. Recently, Dr. Wagers received funds from the State of Florida and Federal Government to expand BRIGHT statewide and develop a replicable evidence-based model.
Kailey Pate Carter, Project Manager for BRIGHT at the University of South Florida, a project of the Trafficking in Persons Risk to Resilience Research Lab
Kailey Pate Carter is the USF Project Manager for BRIGHT, a project of the Trafficking in Persons Risk to Resilience Research Lab. Carter obtained both her B.A. in Psychology and M.A. in Criminology from USF and has a passion for serving others. Carter’s research interests include human trafficking, complex posttraumatic stress disorder, ACES and domestic violence.
She has been intricately involved on the BRIGHT project with the USF Trafficking in Persons Lab since the initial needs assessment conducted in the Fall of 2020, working with community partners to tailor the platform to their specific needs. As the Project Manager, Carter is the main point of contact for all community partners and works to onboard new organizations into the network. Carter works with the Project Director to execute the larger goals for the project in addition to the management of the users of the system.
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STAC needs your support to sustain these important webinars. Will you donate today? Each gift helps to bring this vital information to the many people who are empowering survivors and preventing human trafficking. The only way we can maintain these programs and this work is with YOUR help.
Suggested donation: $20

Human Trafficking and Exploitation by Illegal Street Gangs
2024-07-19 13:00 - 14:30
The Survive and Thrive Advocacy Center (STAC) Third Friday Training Webinar Series is dedicated to educating everyone about the critical issue of human trafficking. This interactive series aims to provide an in-depth understanding of the various facets of human trafficking, from its root causes and methods of operation to the profound impact it has on survivors, their families, workplaces, and society both in our home towns and worldwide.

Description:
In this free webinar, Amy Hutsell and Victor Williams will discuss the trend of organized street gangs profiting from the sex and labor trafficking of minors and adults. As gang investigators focus on drugs, guns, and homicides, illegal street gangs are often able to keep their sex trafficking activity under the radar. This session will include research into the prevalence of gang-involved sex trafficking, pathways to victimization, recruitment techniques, and a look at society’s demand for commercial sex. In Georgia, there is a focused effort to address this intersection. Presenters will highlight the anti-gang/anti-human trafficking priorities of the State and the strategic focus to combat the illegal activity. Relying on a victim-centered and trauma-informed approach, presenters will discuss the work of the Georgia Coalition to Combat Human Trafficking, the data-driven and pro-active approach to human trafficking investigations, and the emphasis on strong resources available to victims.
Download: Street Gangs Presentation Slides
Presenters:
Amy Hutsell
Amy Hutsell – Ms. Hutsell is the Program Director for the Sexual Assault, Child Abuse, and Human Trafficking Unit with Georgia’s Criminal Justice Coordinating Council. She and her team have competitively secured over $19,000,000 in federal and private foundation assistance for the state of Georgia’s criminal justice initiatives. Along with developing and overseeing the Georgia Coalition to Combat Human Trafficking and Agricultural Labor Trafficking Task Force, Ms. Hutsell is also responsible for the management of all state and federal grants providing direct service funding to sexual assault, child abuse, and human trafficking victim-serving agencies in Georgia.

Victor Williams – Victor B. Williams is an internationally renowned and respected anti-human trafficking advocate. He retired from law enforcement with over 34 years of domestic and international experience. In 1991, Victor joined the U.S. Customs Service, which later became the Department of Homeland Security(DHS). In February 2011, Victor was assigned to the DHS Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Special Agent in Charge Miami Office’s Human Trafficking Group, and in 2012, he was appointed the Coordinator for the South Florida
Victor Williams
Human Trafficking Task Force until his retirement on January 1, 2018. After retirement, Victor was recruited as a security consultant for the Atlanta Hawks Basketball Club and later appointed as the Coordinator of the Georgia Coalition to Combat Human Trafficking, the State’s first law enforcement-based Human Trafficking coalition addressing all forms of human trafficking in the State. In 2023, he launched the Quest2Freedom organization, which focuses on preventative education, emphasizing cultural awareness and empowering people through partnerships with community organizations and human trafficking presentations and workshops. He currently serves as the Vice Chair of the Miami-Dade County Human Trafficking Coalition.
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STAC needs your support to sustain these important webinars. Will you donate today? Each gift helps to bring this vital information to the many people who are empowering survivors and preventing human trafficking. The only way we can maintain these programs and this work is with YOUR help.
Suggested donation: $20

Navigating Tax Controversies Affecting Human Trafficking Survivors
2024-07-18 12:00 - 13:30
While often overlooked, resolving tax controversies is a critical step for survivors of human trafficking seeking economic stabilization. Survivors often face unexpected tax liabilities as a result of fraudulent actions taken by their traffickers, unpaid taxes, and other complications arising from their trafficking experience – with such issues often taking years to identify and needing expert help to resolve. Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service (MVLS) and the Human Trafficking Prevention Project (HTPP) are excited to welcome Azarvand Tax Law and John Hardt, Director of the Low Income Taxpayer Clinic at MVLS, to discuss how tax issues may impact human trafficking survivors and outline best practices for tax attorneys and professionals working on such cases in Maryland.
Register Now
This webinar is hosted by Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service in partnership with the Human Trafficking Prevention Project with support from Azarvand Law and the MSBA Young Lawyers Section. Please contact htpp@mvlslaw.org with any questions.
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STAC needs your support to sustain these important webinars. Will you donate today? Each gift helps to bring this vital information to the many people who are empowering survivors and preventing human trafficking. The only way we can maintain these programs and this work is with YOUR help.
Suggested donation: $20

Unveiling Modern Trends in Human Trafficking: From Social Media Grooming to Exploiting Vulnerabilities
2024-06-21 13:00 - 14:30
The Florida Department of Children and Families has seen a massive surge in the number of cases involving youth and adults being threatened and coerced into sending explicit images online or via social media apps. Evolving trends show that human traffickers are adapting to new technologies and tactics. One trend is using social media for grooming and recruiting victims, making it crucial to educate everyone about online safety.
Download slide presentation
Another concerning trend is traffickers exploiting vulnerabilities such as substance abuse, mental health issues, and economic hardships to coerce individuals into trafficking situations. Traffickers often use substance addiction to exploit individuals into labor and sex trafficking. It’s essential to address these trends through prevention, awareness and support for victims and vulnerable populations.
Marina Anderson
During this webinar, attendees will learn about the latest tactics and methods used by traffickers, including how they leverage social media, exploit vulnerabilities such as substance abuse and mental health issues and use new technologies for victim recruitment and control. You will also gain insights into prevention strategies, victim and survivor support, legal frameworks, and the role of social services, law enforcement and advocacy groups in ending human trafficking.

Speakers:

Marina Anderson, Northeast Regional Human Trafficking Coordinator, FL Dept of Children and Families
Victoria Maines, Northwest Regional Human Trafficking Coordinator, FL Dept of Children and Families

We are pleased to welcome guest speakers Marina Anderson and Victoria Maines, Regional Human Trafficking Prevention Coordinators from the Florida Department of Children and Families.

Marina Anderson joined the DCF Office of Child Welfare Human Trafficking Team in 2015, but she began her career with DCF in 2002. For 13 years, she worked as a Child Protective Investigator in Duval County. Marina is a certified investigator and trainer in human trafficking and a subject matter expert in critical injury, domestic violence, physical/sexual abuse and human trafficking. She is also an approved Human Trafficking Trainer for the Florida Sheriffs Association. Marina holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from the University of North Florida.
Victoria Maines

Victoria Maines is a dedicated professional with extensive experience in child welfare and human trafficking prevention. Working with DCF, she has excelled in Investigative and supervisory roles, specializing in cases of sexual abuse, human trafficking and high-risk situations. Victoria is recognized for her expertise, commitment to advocacy and contributions to promoting child safety and supporting trafficking victims.
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STAC needs your support to sustain these important webinars. Will you donate today? Each gift helps to bring this vital information to the many people who are empowering survivors and preventing human trafficking. The only way we can maintain these programs and this work is with YOUR help.
Suggested donation: $20

Human Trafficking Community Conversation: Wakulla County
2024-06-12 11:30 - 13:30
Join us on Wednesday, June 12, for the Wakulla County “Human Trafficking Community Conversation” – a lively and informative lunchtime interactive program about human trafficking in Wakulla County at the TCC Wakulla Center.
TCC Wakulla Center (2932 Crawfordville Hwy, Crawfordville, FL 32327)
We will:

Engage and share information and ideas using compelling artwork.
Understand how to spot human trafficking in Wakulla County.
Learn from human trafficking survivors.
Discover new ways of thinking about this issue and how it can impact you and your family.
Create our own mural and artwork.

Special guests include:

Jamie Rosseland, Human Trafficking Subject Matter Expert
Graciela Marquina, MSW, STAC Community Services Advocate
And more!

Lunch will be provided.

Please join us and be part of the important conversation! This event is for EVERYONE in the WHOLE community: social services, healthcare professionals, businesses, teachers, students, elected leaders and government, professionals, the justice system, nonprofits, faith communities, parents, grandparents and many more.
Registration Deadline: Monday, June 10, 9pm

How to Talk with Youth about Human Trafficking & Exploitation
2024-06-05 15:00 - 16:30
Today’s educators are in a unique position to reach youth who may be vulnerable to exploitation and human trafficking. They see youth every day in their schools, learn about their lives, and can be safe spaces for students who need help. Youth survivors of trafficking and exploitation have specialized needs and experiences, and the adults who work with them need to be trauma-informed and tuned-in to recognize when something is wrong in students’ lives and how to talk with them about it.
This webinar will highlight best practices and resources for K-12 educators on just that: how to talk with youth about human trafficking and exploitation. We will have brief presentations featuring specifically designed resources including graphic novels for youth from the Office for Victims of Crime, and a guide for youth practitioners from the Blue Campaign. We will also have a panel discussion with two educators working with youth in high schools in Chicago and rural Missouri as well as two youth speakers who are actively involved in using the arts in anti-trafficking outreach efforts. The webinar will conclude with an audience Q&A.
Register Now

Responding to Foreign National Minors Who Experience Trafficking
2024-06-05 14:00 - 16:00
Do you work with foreign national youth? Join OTIP for its monthly webinar on resources available to assist foreign national minors in the United States who have experienced human trafficking, including Interim Assistance and Eligibility Letters that provide access to benefits and services. Participants will receive an overview of the request for assistance process and learn about reporting requirements under the Trafficking Victims Protection Act. This webinar is on the first Wednesday of every month.
Register Now
The Human Trafficking Legal Center
www.htlegalcenter.org

Labor Trafficking and Forced Criminality: Understanding the Scope, Trends and Responses
2024-05-17 13:00 - 14:30
This session will provide attendees with an introduction to Framework, a national technical assistance provider whose aim is to increase the capacity of social services providers and other community-based organizations to identify and provide transformative services to survivors of labor trafficking and to help them to garner resources and build partnerships necessary to increase identification, services and healing of labor trafficking survivors.
Expert presenters also will give an overview of labor trafficking in the U.S., including an in-depth look forced criminality of children and adults, provide information about the services and remedies available to survivors, and thoroughly outline additional resources we can explore for more information and assistance.
Download presentation slides
Presenters:
Kristina Bailey
Kristina Bailey
Kristina Bailey (she/her/ella) graduated from Florida State University with both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in Social Work. She has been with the IRC since June of 2019, first working with the IRC Tallahassee office as Human Trafficking Program Coordinator and then as Anti-Trafficking Program Supervisor. Kristina successfully ran the IRC Tallahassee Anti-Trafficking program through its first grant cycle, and into its second, which included the awarding of a second grant and hiring of more staff to expand capacity. Kristina stepped into the role of Program Officer, Anti-Trafficking Programs in October 2022, and as part of the anti-trafficking technical unit, provides technical support to 13 IRC offices with anti-trafficking programming via federal funding, as well as support to the Framework project. Kristina has been passionate about the field of human rights and anti-trafficking since she was a teenager and is deeply interested in the macro level work that can be done in this field. Outside of her career, Kristina is a happily married mom of three and enjoys spending time with her family and reading book after book on her Kindle.
Florencia Dominguez, Anti-trafficking Technical Advisor, International Rescue Committee
Florencia Dominguez serves as the Anti-trafficking Technical Advisor providing technical assistance and support to International Rescue Committee’s anti-trafficking and child protection (HSPRS) programs across
Florencia Dominguez
the United States, as well as to a wide array of service providers through the federally funded Framework initiative. She has over 10 years of experience working with anti-trafficking, refugee and unaccompanied children programming as a caseworker and various leadership roles. Prior to this role she was the safety and protection program manager providing support to all safety, wellness and protection related programming for IRC in Florida.
She also held leadership positions for the Comparative and International Education Society and the Office of Global Learning Initiatives at Florida International University (FIU); and worked as an anti-money laundering analyst/consultant for Citibank under its U.S. International Personal Banking LATAM division. She holds a Master of Public Administration from Penn State University; graduate certificates in Public Budgeting and Financial Management, and Public Human Resources Management; and a B.A. in International Relations with a minor in Economics and a certificate in Latin America and the Caribbean studies from FIU.

STAC needs your support to sustain these important webinars. Will you donate today? Each gift helps to bring this vital information to the many people who are empowering survivors and preventing human trafficking. The only way we can maintain these programs and this work is with YOUR help.
Suggested donation: $20

Integrating EMDR and Creative Arts for Survivors of Trafficking
2024-05-17 08:00 - 17:00
This webinar is open to mental health service providers:
3 CEUs will be provided
This CEU course is being provided through Achieve With Andrea, which has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7286. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. Achieve With Andrea is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.
*In order to receive CEU’s you must attend the training live*

Register Now
Webinar Description:
An exploration of the powerful impacts of creative arts therapy in clinical settings when combined with EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). Training will support service providers in unpacking the challenges when faced with treating complex trafficking cases utilizing EMDR and ways in which they can incorporate creative art therapies within treatment to support the process of further healing for trafficking survivors.
Attendees will be able to:
1. Define creative art therapies and their unique advantages in the treatment of complex trauma faced by trafficking survivors
2. Integrating creative art therapies throughout different phases of the EMDR protocol with a unique focus on supporting clients who struggle with dissociation.
3. Practice three techniques that demonstrate blending creative arts and EMDR.
4. Apply culturally specific approaches within treatment for BIPOC and LGBTQ survivors.
About the Presenter: Ashante Taylorcox, MA-MHC, LPC
Ashante Taylorcox (she/her) is the Founder and Executive Director of You Are More Than Inc (YAMT), is a Licensed Professional Counselor with ten years of experience in the anti-trafficking movement. She has expertise in providing counseling services, training and technical assistance, program development, and evaluation/research skills when working with BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ adult survivors. Ashante holds an MA in Mental Health Counseling and a post-master certificate in LGBT health, education, and social services from New York University.
Ashante is an EMDR-trained clinician with additional extensive experience in treating trauma through somatic practices and art-based therapies with communities of color and 2SLGBTQ+ folx. Ashante utilizes a blend of attachment-based trauma therapy, Internal family systems therapy, and narrative therapy. Ashante has past experience working in private practice, nonprofit settings, group home settings, and acute care hospital settings.

Big Bend Coalition Against Human Trafficking (BBCAHT) Quarterly Meeting
2024-05-16 14:00 - 15:00
BIG BEND COALITION AGAINST HUMAN TRAFFICKING (BBCAHT) MEETING
Thursday, May 16, 2024 at 2:00 PM
Florida Sheriffs Association, 2617 Mahan Drive, Tallahassee, FL 32308
Our speaker will be Sameer Jain, US Advisory Council on Human Trafficking.
See additional resources from Sameer:
Recent STAC Podcast, listen here: https://surviveandthriveadvocacy.org/episode-4-sameer-jain/
https://www.state.gov/united-states-advisory-council-on-human-trafficking-annual-report-2023/
If you are unable to attend in person, and would like to attend virtually or by phone, please contact:
Kelli Dougherty
Kellianne.Dougherty@usdoj.gov

2024 Women & Girls Summit: Advocacy, Resilience, and Empowerment
2024-04-15 11:30 - 19:00
2024 Women & Girls Summit:
Advocacy, Resilience, and Empowerment
Register Now
Location:
FSU Turnbull Center
555 West Pensacola Street, Tallahassee FL 32306
Mural artist and STAC President Elect Nipa Eason and STAC ED Robin Hassler Thompson will lead a session at the Summit focused on STAC’s Mural from “Surviving to Thriving.”

Human Trafficking and Florida’s Schools
2024-03-15 13:00 - 14:30
Schools are one of the most important places to highlight the issue of human trafficking – and everyone at our schools has a role in preventing as well as recognizing and responding to both sex and labor trafficking. The FSU College of Law’s Human Trafficking Exploitation Law Project (HELP) and the Children’s Advocacy Clinic has been at the forefront of advocating for survivors of human trafficking and for integrating human trafficking into Florida schools for many years. During this program, FSU law students will present on the Florida law requiring human trafficking prevention education for grades K-12.
DOWNLOAD: Schools and Trafficking Prevention STAC HT Webinar Presentation
They will report on their analysis of the 67+ school districts’ annual implementation plans and shine a light on the salient features and promising practices of the impressive school districts. Presenters also will provide a national perspective on how other states are addressing human trafficking prevention in public schools. Included will be information that public educators from different grade levels around Florida have shared as they reflected on their own experience and best practices.
This is a program for everyone including students and educators – and anyone who cares about the safety of our youth, educators, and our community – and how we can all take action to improve.
Presenters:
Professor Paolo Annino
Professor Paolo Annino, Florida State University College of Law, Glass Professor of Public Interest Law, Distinguished University Scholar, Public Interest Law Center
Florida State University College of Law Clinical Professor Paolo Annino is a national leader in advocating for children. Professor Annino is the Glass Professor of Public Interest Law, a Distinguished University Scholar, and the Director of the FSU College of Law Public Interest Law Center.
Prof. Annino also directs the FSU College of Law, Human Trafficking Exploitation Law Project (HELP).
His students produced the eight episode Spotify Podcast: Trial Advocacy Podcast: Supporting Survivors of Human Trafficking. https://open.spotify.com/show/6tLdVjqd7zsSFXAOym010Q
Lauren Evans, Second Year Law Student, Florida State University College of Law
Lauren Evans
Lauren Evans is a 2L at the FSU College of Law where she aims to use the legal system to help children.
She is involved in the Children’s Advocacy Clinic and Human Trafficking and Exploitation Law Project.
She is passionate about ending human trafficking and helping survivors heal.
Ashley Marceus, Third Year Law Student, Florida State University College of Law
Ashley Marceus is a current 3L attending Columbia Law School and a visiting student at Florida State University College of Law. Ashley is from West Palm Beach, Florida, and is currently based in the Southwest Florida area. She obtained her undergraduate degree from the University of Florida where she triple majored in Political Science, African American Studies and Women’s Studies.
Ashley Marceus
There, she learned of the current travesties of violence against woman and decided to dedicate her career to vindicating victims of domestic violence, sex crimes and human trafficking as a prosecutor. She began this feat through her internships with Queen’s District Attorney’s Office, Brooklyn’s District Attorney’s Office, the Office of the State Attorney for the Ninth Judicial Circuit, and Florida State University’s Child Advocacy Clinic.
She is currently a Max Berger ’71 Public Interest/Public Service Fellow and is committed to continuing to invest her career in the realm of public service and justice.
Sherly Marceus, Educator
Born and raised in Florida, Sherly Marceus received her bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Central Florida. Sherly currently works as an Intensive Reading Teacher with Stambaugh Middle School.
She just accepted a position as a Behavior Interventionist to aid in reducing maladaptive behaviors and increase positive ones.
Sherly Marceus
In the past, she has worked with school districts and private institutions as a Behavior Specialist.
In addition to being a teacher, Sherly is pursuing her master’s degree in Applied Behavioral Analysis with the goal of bridging the gap between the behavioral world and our public education system.
Dr. Dorothy Bendross-Mindingall
Miami-Dade School Board Member, District 2
Dr. Dorothy Bendross-Mindingall, a former classroom teacher, principal, adult education administrator and current School Board Member, District 2, has made a lifetime of using education to unlock the doors of opportunity for hundreds of students, teachers, and parents. After graduating from Miami Northwestern Senior High School, she matriculated at Tuskegee (Alabama) Institute, Nova University, Barry University and Florida International University, being awarded undergraduate and graduate degrees, specializations, and certifications, in the fields of education and leadership.

Dr. Dorothy Bendross Mindingall
She was elected to the Florida House of Representatives from 2000 to 2008. As a former State Representative for District 109, she was able to secure millions of dollars for programs and services in her District, which included the Miami Children’s Initiatives in Liberty City. Having created numerous successful programs that changed the lives of children and single mothers, she has often used her creative solutions for problems that seemed to perplex and overwhelm others. As a pro-active person, she developed: PAARM, a State-charted, male role-model program, a project to increase attendance, a project to increase and improve children’s reading abilities, and a welfare-to-work program among others, long before these initiatives gained their official recognition on a local, state, and national level. She is a creative, dedicated, and tenacious advocate for the children and has great experience in district policies and state politics. She knows what this District needs and how to get things done. She has had a distinguished career in the Miami Dade schools, where she was lauded for pioneering programs for mentorship, attendance improvement, community education, parent involvement and much more.
In addition to her elected public service, and being lauded by numerous local, national, and international organizations, she opened and serves as administrator of Labor in Love Family Literacy Center, which will get even more parents off welfare, and armed with the skills needed to stay focused and productive. Her community service also includes founder of “No More Broken Hearts-Domestic Violence Workshop which will celebrate 24 years since its inception at the Annual Domestic Violence Workshop on February 24, 2024. She has been appointed to serve on a number of Boards throughout Miami-Dade County. She is currently the Chairwoman for the Academics, Evaluation, Innovation, & Technology Committee. Additionally, as a Diamond Life member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and the International Women’s Forum, she has worked with the chapter’s youth groups. As a Miami-Dade County School Board Member and the former first African American Vice Chair of Miami-Dade County School Board, Dr. Dorothy Bendross-Mindingall continues to serve as an example of a strong, courageous, tenacious leader who through collaboration and commitment advocates on the behalf of the least, the last, and the lost.

STAC needs your support to sustain these important webinars. Will you donate today? Each gift helps to bring this vital information to the many people who are empowering survivors and preventing human trafficking. The only way we can maintain these programs and this work is with YOUR help.
Suggested donation: $20

Community Conversation – Leon County
2024-02-20 17:30 - 19:00
Be sure to mark your calendar on February 20 for an important “Community Conversation” around human trafficking in the Big Bend and what YOU can do to help at 621 Gallery. Attendees can look forward to:
🖼️ Discussion and sharing strategies using a mural depicting the journey from surviving to thriving
🗣️ A panel discussion with the arts community and lived experience experts
🌮 Let’s “TACO” about STAC: Free refreshments to share
🎨 The opportunity to participate in a community art project
✨ And more!
Everyone in the community is invited including teachers, students, professionals, the justice system, nonprofits, faith, communities and beyond!
Register today:

Third Friday Webinar: Human Trafficking and Rural Communities
2024-02-16 13:00 - 14:30
This program will help us to better understand what human trafficking looks like in our rural communities and how we can work together to prevent and end it. Too many people think that sex and labor trafficking happens only in big cities or large metropolitan areas. Or that labor trafficking only happens in agricultural areas that are mostly rural. These are all myths.
Representatives from local communities will discuss the challenges rural communities face, the strength that these communities have to recognize and respond to trafficking, and the ways that we all can take action to do better.
Whether you are in a rule community, or in a big city, this is a good program for you to attend. Social services, the faith communities, healthcare, the justice system, students, teachers, and everyone will benefit to learn more about how to respond to sex and labor trafficking in rural communities.

Special guests include…
Pastor Douglas Harris, Midway Unity Fellowship Church
Mrs. Patricia Harris, Retired English Instructor & Guidance Counselor
Captain Anglie Holmes, Gadsden County Sheriff’s Office
Graciela Marquina, Community Services Advocate, STAC
Lolanda Kindrix-Woods, Evangelist, and Deacon James Woods, Grandparents and Midway residents

STAC needs your support to sustain these important webinars. Will you donate today? Each gift helps to bring this vital information to the many people who are empowering survivors and preventing human trafficking. The only way we can maintain these programs and this work is with YOUR help.
Suggested donation: $20

Select Big Bend Coalition Against Human Trafficking (BBCAHT) Quarterly Meeting
2024-02-15 14:00 - 15:00
BIG BEND COALITION AGAINST HUMAN TRAFFICKING (BBCAHT) MEETING
Thursday, February 15, 2024 at 2:00 PM
Florida Sheriffs Association, 2617 Mahan Drive, Tallahassee, FL 32308
Our speakers will be Nicole Whitaker, Christians Against Trafficking. Nicole will give us an update on the Human Trafficking related bills currently before the Florida Legislature.
If you are unable to attend in person, and would like to attend virtually or by phone, please contact:
Kelli Dougherty
Kellianne.Dougherty@usdoj.gov

4th Annual Regional Human Trafficking Summit: Expanding Community Partnerships to Address Human Trafficking
2024-02-07 - 2024-02-08
Join the Regional Interdisciplinary Collaborative Working to Disrupt Human Trafficking virtually or in-person for a two-day summit at the VCU School of Medicine, in Richmond, VA. The goal of the summit is to lead a multilateral cooperation and synergy among states as they work to ensure the safety and freedom of trafficked persons.
Register: 2024 Regional Summit – The Regional Interdisciplinary Collaborative Working to Disrupt Human Trafficking (disrupttrafficking.org)

Imagine Freedom 2024: A Fundraising Event To Help Empower Human Trafficking Survivors
2024-01-30 17:30 - 19:00
Human trafficking survivors need your support now more than ever. A referral agency of the National Human Trafficking Hotline, STAC provides support to survivors of sex and labor trafficking and teaches people how to recognize, report and prevent trafficking.
At Imagine Freedom 2024, guests can look forward to a gratitude-filled reception where we will honor the changemakers and those who have helped fortify our community against sex and labor trafficking through community awards and recognition. We will also have labor trafficking-free treats and drinks to share.
Review the Imagine Freedom 2024 Highlights

Gadsden County Human Trafficking Community Forum
2024-01-27 11:00 - 12:30
Midway Unity Fellowship
Hosted by Pastor Douglas Harris of Midway Unity Fellowship Church
Human Trafficking is in Gadsden County and YOU can make a difference.
Refreshments will be provided!

Better service for two-spirit & Native LGBTQIA+ victims of trafficking
2024-01-25 15:00 - 16:30
Talking Circle Series: Improving Access to Services for Two-Spirit and Native LGBTQIA+ Victims of Human Trafficking
Two-Spirit and Native LGBTQIA+ individuals are some of the most vulnerable populations to human trafficking. While there is no defining characteristic of a human trafficking victim, traffickers often target victims’ vulnerabilities such as a lack of social support networks and financial or housing insecurity. Register for this no-cost webinar and hear panelists discuss common barriers to accessing services, resources to reach Two-Spirit and Native LGBTQIA+ survivor populations, and partnerships to support a broad spectrum of needs.
Register Now
This no-cost webinar is hosted by the Office for Victims of Crime’s Human Trafficking Capacity Building Center.

Human Trafficking: What Faith Communities Need to Know
2024-01-22 12:00 - 13:30
Many people think human trafficking only happens in big cities; but the truth is, it’s happening everywhere, and businesses are the eyes and ears of the community. Everyone can play a role, especially communities of faith, in identifying trafficking acts or victims.
This training will detail how you can respond if you suspect sex or labor trafficking. Topics include: relevant laws; types of human trafficking in Florida; recognizing how human trafficking occurs in a variety of settings; legal liability; responses and protocols; prioritizing safety and the public; support for survivors; and key resource information.
Attendees will receive a certificate, used by many for professional development credits. This course has been approved by the Florida Bar for 2 hours of CLE Credit and by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation.
With this knowledge, you will empower and fortify our community, you will protect your workplaces, you will stand with survivors, and you will be part of a community working together to prevent and end human trafficking.
This training is on January 22, 2023, 12:00 pm. First Baptist Church, Fellowship Hall.
108 W College Ave, Tallahassee, FL 32301
To attend this training and lunch, please register here.
The deadline for registration is January 18, 2024.

Understanding the Link Between Persons with Disabilities and Human Trafficking
2024-01-19 13:00 - 14:30
During this training, we will discuss how people with disabilities are often targeted for sex and labor trafficking and exploited for financial gain. You will learn more about red flags of trafficking and next steps to take if you believe that someone you know may be trafficked or is being groomed for trafficking or exploitation.
Educating the community to understand what human trafficking looks like on the local, state, and national levels is a vital step to ending human trafficking in the United States. People with disabilities are at risk of experiencing human trafficking. Traffickers deliberately target people with vulnerabilities as a means of manipulation and control. Some risk factors that traffickers try to exploit may include education gaps, societal isolation, and lack of access to services and support. Persons with disabilities often experience widespread societal discrimination that can result in their family, friends, and even the authorities not believing them when they report abuse.
Download presentation
View Taxi video mentioned
View Financial Exploitation video mentioned
Presenter: Marina Anderson, Regional Human Trafficking Coordinator, Northeast and Northwest Regions, Florida Department of Children and Families
About the Speaker:
Marina Anderson, Florida Department of Children and Families Regional Human Trafficking Coordinator for Northeast and Northwest Regions. Marina joined the Department of Children and Families Office of Child Welfare Human Trafficking Team in May 2015. She began her career with DCF in 2002. For thirteen years she worked as a Child Protective Investigator (CPI) in Duval County. Marina is a certified investigator and trainer in human trafficking, and a subject matter expert in critical injury, domestic violence, physical/sexual abuse and human trafficking. Marina is also an approved Human Trafficking Trainer for the Florida Sheriff’s Association. Marina Anderson holds a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from the University of North Florida.

STAC needs your support to sustain these important webinars. Will you donate today? Each gift helps to bring this vital information to the many people who are empowering survivors and preventing human trafficking. The only way we can maintain these programs and this work is with YOUR help.
Suggested donation: $20

Continued Presence Public Webinar
2024-01-16 15:30 - 16:30
The Dept. of Homeland Security’s Center for Countering Human Trafficking is hosting its biannual Continued Presence (CP) Public Webinar on Tuesday, January 16, 2024. These sessions are for NGOs, civil and immigration attorneys, victim advocates, and other service providers working to counter human trafficking. All are encouraged to attend to learn more about CP, the protections it offers victims, and how it supports criminal investigations. Registration is required.
This webinar series will focus on:

What Continued Presence is and who is eligible to make a request.
Who to contact to make a Continued Presence request.
The CCHT Victim-Centered Approach.
Continued Presence applications in support of a civil action.

Register Here

When Human Trafficking Comes to Work: What You Need to Know
2024-01-09 19:00 - 20:30
Many people think human trafficking only happens in big cities; but the truth is, it’s happening everywhere, and businesses are the eyes and ears of the community. Business plays a vital role in identifying trafficking acts or victims. Moreover, a business assumes safety, financial, legal, and public image risks if human trafficking is ignored. That is why it is the best interest of every business and workplace to learn how to recognize and respond to both sex and labor trafficking.
This certificate program that will detail how management and staff can respond if they suspect sex or labor trafficking. Topics include: relevant laws; types of human trafficking in Florida; recognizing how human trafficking occurs in a variety of business settings; legal liability; responses and protocols; prioritizing safety for workplace and public; support for survivors; and key resource information.
Attendees will receive a certificate, used by many for professional development credits. This course has been approved by the Florida Bar for 2 hours of CLE Credit and by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation.
With this knowledge, you will empower and fortify your community, you will protect your bottom line and your workplace, you will stand with survivors, and you will be part of a community working together to prevent and end human trafficking.
Pre-Registration is Required for this FREE Online Event
Register Now

Responding to Foreign National Minors Who Experience Trafficking
2024-01-03 14:00 - 16:00
Do you work with foreign national youth? Join OTIP for its monthly webinar on resources available to assist foreign national minors in the United States who have experienced human trafficking, including Interim Assistance and Eligibility Letters that provide access to benefits and services. Participants will receive an overview of the Request for Assistance process and learn about the reporting requirements under the Trafficking Victims Protection Act.
Register: Responding to Foreign National Minors Who Experience Trafficking | The Administration for Children and Families (hhs.gov)

Race for Prevention: Human Trafficking Awareness Virtual Race
2024-01-01 - 2024-01-31
January 1 – 31, 2024
Place: Virtual
Tallahassee, FL US 32301
Description:
The International Rescue Committee’s 2nd Annual Race for Prevention virtual race runs the entire month of January to support National Human Trafficking Prevention month. This race can be as little or as many miles as you would like to track — hopefully as many as possible! This is an inclusive race and can be walked, run, rolled (skates, wheelchair, handcycle, bike, etc.), or swum. 🏃‍♀️👩🏽‍🦽⛷️🚶🏾‍♂️🚴🏻 The options add to the amount of people able to join in the fun as does it being virtual, because you can join from anywhere! Whether you are in a different state or country — all are welcome to participate in our race.
While the main goal of RFP Virtual Race is to spread awareness of the issue regarding Human Trafficking as well as support the IRC’s Anti-Trafficking efforts in the community, you also have the option to raise funds for survivors through our Venmo account. This is OPTIONAL – the race is completely free to participate in. The Venmo account is @IRC-Florida and the QR code can be found here. Please tag the donation as RFP or Race for Prevention.
What is a virtual race? Great question. It is much like a regular race but instead of going to one place for a designated route on a certain day you can do it at your own pace throughout the month – ANYWHERE, ANYTIME. Okay, so maybe not much like a regular race… but better. 😎 Our virtual race is set up as a challenge: How many miles can we as a community accumulate towards Human Trafficking Awareness.
Feel free to document yourself during the race and tag our Instagram page to be featured! @ircflorida
More info: Race for Prevention: Human Trafficking Awareness Virtual Race (runsignup.com)

Immigration Issues: Services and Relief for Foreign-born Victims of Human Trafficking
2023-11-17 13:00 - 14:30
During this program, expert presenters will demystify the barriers and clarify misunderstandings surrounding relief and assistance for adult and child foreign-born survivors of human trafficking, specifically around immigration relief options. We will dissect case examples that agencies, advocates, and many other community members may encounter. Presenters will also offer solutions to better equip everyone so we may all do better to empower and support trafficked persons who are sex and labor trafficked and those who are at risk.
Approved by the Florida Bar for 2 Hours of General Continuing Legal Education (CLE) Credit.
Download Presentation Slides
Presenters:
Vania Aguilar, FSU Center for the Advancement of Human Rights
Daniela Donoso, Legal Services of North Florida
About the Speakers:
Vania Aguilar, FSU Center for the Advancement of Human Rights – Ms. Aguilar is a program manager at CAHR, where she oversees the administrative work of the Center. She has been working with the Center since 2001. She conducts trainings on human trafficking for various groups in the community. In addition, she oversees the Center’s case management and service provision for human trafficking victims and victims of other crimes. She has developed curriculum for the Florida Department of Education and Florida Department of Children and Families and the Florida Department of Education on human trafficking. She was granted BIA Accreditation in 2013 and is assisting clients with their VAWA, DACA, Adjustment of Status, asylum, SIJS, TPS, U and T visa application submissions. She serves as a co-chair for the Big Bend Coalition Against Human Trafficking Social Service Committee. On behalf of the coalition, she has written op-eds, participated on radio show interviews to discuss how Florida is affected by human trafficking, conducted presentations and directed outreach initiatives. In addition, she has served on the board of the Survive and Thrive Advocacy Center, a non-profit that assists victims and survivors of human trafficking in the second judicial circuit.
Daniela Donoso, Legal Services of North Florida – Daniela Donoso serves as the Program Wide Immigration Attorney at Legal Services of North Florida, LSNF. Formerly the Equal Justice Works Fellow at LSNF, Donoso designed her fellowship to be a comprehensive immigration advocacy program in North Florida to serve immigrants who are low income and/or crime victims and establish immigration protocols, procedures, and resources for LSNF staff and community partners. Daniela, a past DACA recipient, knows what it is like to have your life shifted by fear and uncertainty because of the broken immigration system. Her personal and professional experience working with marginalized communities has instilled an altruistic spirit that makes her uniquely suited for this Fellowship. Donoso received her law degree from Florida State University College of Law and became a Florida barred attorney in April of 2021. Donoso received her bachelor’s degree in International Affairs from Florida State University. She spent her undergraduate and graduate time working for the Center for the Advancement of Human Rights, gaining mentors and experience in immigration and anti-trafficking advocacy.

STAC needs your support to sustain these important webinars. Will you donate today? Each gift helps to bring this vital information to the many people who are empowering survivors and preventing human trafficking. The only way we can maintain these programs and this work is with YOUR help.
Suggested donation: $20

Big Bend Coalition Against Human Trafficking (BBCAHT) Quarterly Meeting
2023-11-15 14:00 - 15:00 | Florida Sheriffs Association, 2617 Mahan Drive, Tallahassee, FL, 32308, United States
Wednesday, November 15, 2023 at 2:00 PM at the Florida Sheriffs Association, 2617 Mahan Drive, Tallahassee, FL 32308.

HHS Innovation Challenge to Prevent Human Trafficking Among Women and Girls
2023-11-09 19:00 - 20:00
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), through the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health (OASH) Office on Women’s Health (OWH) is seeking innovative ways to address human trafficking prevention among women and girls in the United States through the HHS Innovation Challenge to Prevent Human Trafficking.
Register Now
OWH will be hosting an informational webinar for those who are interested in participating in the competition. The webinar will take place Thursday, November 9, 2023 at 7:00pm ET. Please use the registration below to join and visit Challenge.gov or contact TraffickingChallenge@hhs.gov if you have any questions.
