Over 200 concerned individuals gathered from all corners of the state to participate in a crucial event aimed at addressing the pressing issue of human trafficking. The “Call to Action Summit” served as a platform to educate attendees on how to identify human trafficking and provide assistance to its victims.
Tom Boelts, the founder of the summit, emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that on average, victims are introduced to trafficking at the young age of 14, with a tragically short life expectancy of only 25 years. The primary goal of the summit is to minimize the impact of human trafficking and ultimately save lives.
Through training sessions and networking opportunities, participants were equipped with the knowledge and resources needed to combat human trafficking effectively. Breanna and Brandon Vales, directors of ‘Red Light Rebellion,’ shared their insights on educating youth about the dangers of trafficking and empowering them to protect themselves and others.
The Vales believe that early intervention is key as technology has made children more vulnerable to predators online. Their involvement in the summit for the second consecutive year underscores the importance of collective action in safeguarding vulnerable individuals.
As attendees absorbed the valuable information presented, there was a palpable sense of hope that their newfound knowledge could translate into tangible change. Boelts stressed the significance of recognizing trafficking victims as victims and reiterated the importance of collective efforts to save lives.
By bringing together individuals from various sectors and providing them with the necessary tools and connections, events like the ‘Call to Action Summit’ play a crucial role in the fight against human trafficking. Every participant plays a vital role in this critical mission of safeguarding vulnerable individuals and preventing exploitation.
