YOU can do SOMETHING to fight trafficking.

After being involved for several years working with the trafficked and at risk, there is one thing we are convinced of:  every single one of us can do SOMETHING that will make a difference in the life of an enslaved or marginalized person.

With joy, we are witnessing groups and individuals stepping out of their comfort zones, as they move forward in their efforts to do their part to stop this global epidemic. They are forming  task forces, brainstorming, and then taking action steps. Here are some of the things they have accomplished just this past 2 years:

• Freedom Cafe at Chi Alpha UMASS  raised over $30,000 for vocational training for the formerly enslaved
• Run for Freedom in Wilbraham, MA raised funds and awareness
• Community Showing of Nefarious in Colchester, CT, sponsored by 2 area churches
• Prayer Vigils held at multiple churches
• Multiple Events to sell products handmade by the Rescued/At-Risk
• Partnering with Salvation Army Hartford, CT
• Full Day Emphasis on Trafficking hosted by Southern New England Network
• Training Day with F.R.E.E. International’s Mike Bartel
• SuperBowl-students from Northpoint joined prayer and awareness efforts in NJ/NYC area before and during SuperBowl
• Many joined Traffic Jam International’s month of intercessory prayer before, during and after SuperBowl
• Task Forces formed in multiple Southern New England locations
• Ongoing awareness events/fund raising for worthy rescue organizations
• People being called into full time work with the trafficked/at-risk
• Prevention efforts, targeting middle and high school students
• After school programs being offered to keep kids off the streets
• If you see something, say something emphasis, encouraging all to report suspicious behavior to trafficking hotline
• Ongoing intercessory prayer by individuals and groups
• Moving beyond awareness into action !!

Although our focus is on the trafficked overseas, we have been very involved with stateside/local initiatives as well. Most people seem  be aware now that this global nightmare is not just “over there”, but is taking place right under their noses in most of their communities. We thank God that our government and law enforcement are addressing the problem, and progress has been made, but when you consider that 100’s of thousands of girls will be newly trafficked in the USA each year, you can see that there is much work to be done.

So what we are asking is that if you’re reading this blog, you would seek to see what YOU can do. You have unique giftings and opportunities that can be used. Pray for “God ideas” and then wait on perfect timing. Get good counsel (critical!), get a team together (you’ll accomplish much more and keep each other accountable) and move ahead.

Please let us know what you’re doing so we can partner in prayer and rejoice with you over each small victory!  It may seem like an overwhelming task, but if we all just do something, this war can be won.

That They Remain Free!

John and Brenda Flower