Florida’s Expungement Laws: Helping Survivors of Human Trafficking
2023-09-15 13:00 - 14:30 (America/New_York)
Download the presentation slides
When a youth or an adult victim/survivor of human trafficking is arrested – whether or not they are prosecuted – they can suffer lifelong personal and practical impacts. Trauma associated with an arrest can haunt them throughout their life. A criminal record can hurt their ability to be economically secure, to get a job or education, and to rebuild their lives and heal. Because these crimes happened while they were being trafficked, Florida law provides a way to help and clear, or “expunge,” their criminal histories.
This month’s program will explain the law on expungement, describe the process for clearing a survivor’s criminal history, detail the effects of expungement on a survivor’s life, and dispel myths and misconceptions regarding expungement. If you are a professional or community member who is in actual or potential contact with sex and labor trafficking survivors or anyone who might be vulnerable, you need to know about expungement.
Approved by the Florida Bar for 2 CLE credit hours (Download FLBAR Approval)
Speaker:
Brent Woody
Lead Attorney/Executive Director, Justice Restoration Center
This free certificate webinar is one of the “Third Friday” community training events hosted by BBCAHT and STAC to inform and engage the North Florida community and beyond. We are happy to extend this invitation to friends and colleagues – please join us!

Do you have any access needs or accommodation requests that you would like STAC to know about? Contact our team at stac@surviveandthriveadvocacy.org or call 850-597-2080.

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

20th Annual International Human Trafficking & Social Justice Conference
2023-09-20 - 2023-09-22
Join us for the 20th Annual International Human Trafficking & Social Justice Conference hosted virtually on September 20-22, 2023.
Register for the conference!
You don’t want to miss this one. TWENTY years strong!
You are invited to virtually connect with our growing community of global anti-trafficking advocates committed to social justice. This year will be our largest conference to date with 115+ live and on-demand webinars to rewatch & access for up to three weeks after the conference!
Our virtual 3-day conference will not only include the latest information from experts in the field of human trafficking and social justice, but will also feature virtual vendors booths, art exhibits, networking opportunities, and giveaways!
This year will be our 20th anniversary!
To make this year extra special, we will be hosting a Virtual Kick-Off Event on Tuesday, September 19th @ 6-7 pm Eastern Time. We will also be launching our exclusive 20th anniversary t-shirt which you could have a chance to win or purchase for yourself.
Register for the conference!

Identifying Human Trafficking in Domestic Violence Relationships: How OTIP Letters and Certifications Can Enhance Access to Public Benefits and Services for Survivors of Trafficking and Their Children
2023-09-20 08:00 - 17:00
Identifying human trafficking within domestic violence improves victim safety and also expedites protection, work authorization, and victims’ access to public benefits access. This webinar will offer tips and tools to identify human trafficking by intimate partners and family members, discuss new DHS policies on domestic violence and involuntary servitude, and explore how survivors and their children benefit from being identified as victims of human trafficking. Expert staff from the HHS Office on Trafficking in Persons (OTIP) will discuss federal trafficking definitions, the benefits and services foreign-born victims of sex and labor trafficking receive through OTIP certification letters and child trafficking victim eligibility letters, and interim assistance that may be available to child trafficking victims. This webinar aims to assist professionals in promptly identifying trafficking victims, enabling them to access state and federal public benefits and to receive case management support from OTIP.
Register Now

Trauma Informed Services and Resources for Human Trafficking Survivors
2023-09-26 15:00 - 16:30
Join us on September 26th for a panel discussion features experienced service providers, all working in the anti-trafficking sphere. Participants will hear from Dr. Beth Bowman, Assistant Professor of Social Work Gallaudet University and CEO of Restoring Ivy Collective, Liz Kimbel, Maryland Regional Director for Restoring Ivy Collective, Jewell Copeland, Baltimore City Human Trafficking Regional Navigator and Center for Hope Anti-Trafficking and Exploitation Program Supervisor, and Natalie Bishop, Esq. Staff Attorney (Immigration and Human Trafficking Focus) for the Sexual Assault Legal Institute.
With the upcoming October 1st enactment of the Safe Harbor Bill, that will protect child survivors from being prosecuted for certain crimes that are a direct result of the trafficking, this webinar will explore each of the panelists’ professional experiences working with different populations of human trafficking survivors and discuss the resources they use and the trauma informed approaches they employ in their work. Participants will learn more about this new law and gain practical insights, tools, and advice they can use when working with human trafficking survivors.
Register Now

Florida’s Human Trafficking Summit
2023-10-03 09:00 - 17:00
Florida’s Human Trafficking Summit brings together local, state, and national leaders working to eradicate all forms of trafficking. Learning opportunities created at the Human Trafficking Summit will allow Florida to continue working to protect victims, prevent trafficking, and prosecute traffickers.
Register Now

OWH Informational Webinar Series: HHS Innovation Challenge to Prevent Human Trafficking Among Women and Girls
2023-10-05 10:00 - 11:00
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.
OWH will be hosting an informational webinar for those who are interested in participating in the competition. The webinar will take place Thursday, October 5, 2023 from 10:00 am – 11:00 am ET. Please use the registration below to join and visit Challenge.gov or contact TraffickingChallenge@hhs.gov if you have any questions.
Register Now

Big Bend Area Health Education Center 2023 Community Resource Fair
2023-10-14 10:00 - 14:00 | Gadsden County Courthouse Greenspace, 10 E. Jefferson St., Qunicy, FL, 32351, United States
Free health and community resources for Spanish-speaking communities and more! Includes legal and screening services.
Download Brochure Download Brochure in Spanish

Human Trafficking and the African American Community: Myths, Realities, and Taking Action
2023-10-20 13:00 - 14:30
WATCH ON YOUTUBE
Presenters:
Brianna Rogers, CEO, BriSafe
Khia Thomas, Founder, Infinite Public Relations
Description:
Traffickers target people who are vulnerable in almost any way. Factors that place Black women and girls, and men and boys, at greater risk include unstable housing, involvement in the criminal justice or child welfare system, mental and behavioral health/high suicide rates. According to the U.S. State Department: Human traffickers disproportionately target those in positions of socioeconomic or political vulnerability due to discriminatory policies, who are often people of color or part of a racial minority. While U.S. efforts to combat human trafficking have grown in magnitude and sophistication over the years, the United States still struggles with how to address the disparate effects of human trafficking on racial minority communities. To be truly effective, a comprehensive approach to prosecution, protection, and—most of all—prevention must embed racial justice and equity across its policies and programs. (2021)
This program will feature a lively and informative conversation. We will address questions such as, “What can we do better to recognize the impact of decades of discrimination and disproportionate treatment of people of color, especially in the African-American community?” and “How does this reality affect the prevention and support for victims and survivors of sex and labor trafficking?”
Presentation resources:
Sex Trafficking Fact sheet
Acknowledging Historical and Ongoing Harm

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

How Do I Recognize Human Trafficking?
2023-10-23 18:00 - 19:30
The Survive and Thrive Advocacy Center (STAC) has created an anti-human trafficking training program called STACPRO. This program is a free, online, on-demand training, funded by Leon County and the City of Tallahassee, designed specifically to empower businesses, workplaces, and employees with greater knowledge about how to recognize and respond if they suspect sex and labor trafficking in our area.
With the community’s support, STAC is building a network of people and organizations who stand with survivors and work together to prevent human trafficking. Please join us on Monday, October 23rd from 6-7:30pm in the Parish Hall at St. Peter’s for a customized in-person training session for the faith community!

Know Your Rights Series: Wills for Trafficking Survivors
2023-11-08 12:00 - 13:00
We invite you to join us at a Know Your Rights webinar, “Wills for Trafficking Survivors.” This is the first webinar in the Know Your Rights Series organized by the Human Trafficking Legal Center Survivor Leadership Program. Our speaker will be Katie Lynagh, an attorney at the pro bono law firm of Milbank LLP.
The live webinar will be hosted on Wednesday, November 8, 2023 at 12 pm EST.
Please see the flyer above for more information. Survivors and advocates are welcome to join.
Register Now

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.

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.

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

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)

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)

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

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

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

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.

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.

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!

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

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)

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

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

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:

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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

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.”

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

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.
