At the Survive and Thrive Advocacy Center (STAC), we believe that ending human trafficking takes a community—a network of people who care, act, and uplift those who need support the most. This belief came to life at Imagine Freedom, our annual fundraising event, where we honored six remarkable local leaders and organizations for their dedication to making our region safer and stronger.

This year’s Imagine Freedom event was extra special, as we also celebrated 10 years of empowering survivors and educating our community about sex and labor trafficking. More than 100 guests gathered to connect, reflect, and learn, whether they were longtime supporters or just beginning to explore how they can make a difference.

Held at the TNL Performing Arts Center in Tallahassee—also a proud event sponsor—Imagine Freedom 2025 served as the heart of our fundraising efforts. Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, we’ve raised $68,000 since November! With just $12,000 to go to meet our $80,000 goal, every contribution brings us closer to providing essential services, educating more people, and creating lasting change.

One of the most meaningful highlights of the evening was our Gratitude Awards, where STAC Board members recognized six extraordinary individuals and organizations for their commitment to survivor empowerment and human trafficking education. Thank you to the following individuals and organizations for their incredible contributions to our community.

Each honoree received a custom award by local artist Ann Kozeliski, inspired by the Enso—a symbol of strength, transformation, and limitless possibility.

Imagine Freedom Award Recipients: 

• Marina Anderson, FL Dept. of Children and Families
• Capital City Youth Services 
• Dr. Michelle Gayle, Deputy Superintendent, Leon County Schools
• Legal Services of North Florida (LSNF) 
• Leon County Government
• Renee Starrett

One of the evening’s most powerful moments was a live recording of the Imagine Freedom podcast, featuring conversations including some  with firsthand experience of trafficking and abuse. Through these stories, podcast  listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the reality of trafficking—and the hope that comes from community-driven change.

Of course, no celebration is complete without amazing food. Guests were treated to a delicious sampling of Indian cuisine, catered by entrepreneur and businessman Sameer Jain—one of the first survivors of labor trafficking STAC assisted. Together with his wife and son, Sameer shared flavors from their family business, Indian Kitchen, turning the meal into a full-circle moment of resilience and generosity.

We are so grateful to everyone who attended, supported, and championed this cause. If you could not make it but want to be part of our efforts, there’s still time to help us reach our fundraising goal. Every gift fuels hope, healing and progress.

Thank you for standing with us. Together, we can imagine—and create—a future free from trafficking.