A Closer Look at Denver's Answer to Local Sex Trafficking
Giving back to the community is an essential part of how Live Urban does business. We believe that each and every person deserves care, dignity, and support. The real estate industry revolves around money-making and it's essential to us that we share the wealth we're dedicated to donating a portion of every home sale to one of our Live & Give partners.
We're proud to work with Extended hands of Hope in order to help women victimized by the Colorado sex trafficking market. In order to broaden our understanding of how Extended Hands of Hope supports Denver, we interviewed Kristen Harness, Founder and Executive director of this inspiring non-profit organization.
Like most Denverites, I'm surprised and saddened to hear that there is sex trafficking in our city. Why don't more people know about this issue?
Up until 3-4 years ago, awareness about this issue was very limited. Many people don't want to believe this is happening in their communities and will often shy away from wanting to learn more. The reality is that [sex trafficking] occurs in every neighborhood and city. The good news is, awareness is definitely gaining ground here in Colorado.
What are the most successful services Extended hands of Hope provides?
We provide safe housing for young victims that otherwise, wouldn't have a safe place to stay. For example, we were able to safely house an emergency placement of a young girl who was rescued from a sting operation within hours of her rescue. She would not have had anywhere else to go, if Avanti House was not open.
Is there a story that sticks out in your mind as being especially inspiring?
We have a young lady that has been in our safe home program since February. She has since gained employment, opened a bank account, and is saving for a car and an apartment when she turns 18. We are very proud of her and her progress in such a short period of time.
How can someone reading this help?
We have a variety of ways to help. We are always looking for financial partners, especially monthly partners. The majority of our funding is from private donors and truly rely on community and business support. We also need female volunteers for our Carriers of Hope Mentor Program, as well as volunteering at Avanti House. In addition, we're also actively recruiting men and women business professionals to join our Community Leaders of Hope Advisory Committee.
Anything else you want our readers to know?
Please educate yourself on the issue of trafficking as it pertains to Colorado. Sex trafficking looks different in our city than it does overseas. It's important for us to understand that trafficking very rarely involves kidnapping and physical restraints but most of the time, it involves mental and emotional manipulation and control. We must train ourselves to see past the outward appearances and look deeper at what's going on. Also, please know that everyone can play role in fighting human trafficking right within your own communities.
Extended Hands of Hope is holding its largest annual fundraiser on September 16th, 2017. Eat Up! Denver is an exciting night filled with food and inspiration. Food from Steuben's, Breckenridge Brewery and many more local favorites along with the company of Denver Bronco Cheerleaders, stories from those who have thrived with the help of this beautiful organization and keynotes from Channel 2 news reporters will leave your belly and heart full. Get your tickets here!
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