We Have A Safe House!

 A Safe House Just A Few Miles Away!
This holiday season has brought some tremendous insight on our community's compassion toward children and adults sexually exploited. Our northwest suburban community is just one piece of a big puzzle for those in need all over the world. At times it can be daunting to think about. But, on occasion where there is good news, we take the time to rally together in a common place of community and celebrate!

We have a house that has been donated to Refuge for Women Chicago to use short term to get the ministry started and it resides within 5 miles of Willow Creek Community Church South Barrington! I hope this inspires you to roll up your sleeves, open your hands and ask, "how can I serve?" Our first call to action is to share and like them on Facebook!

Anne Rand and our volunteer team would love to celebrate with you Wednesday, December 10th at the Human Trafficking Concert at 7:30 pm in the Chapel of Willow Creek Community Church. We have the honor of spending time with Refuge for Women and they have brought all guests compassion bracelets to consecrate for those sexually exploited this holiday season. Shawn Christopher will lead us with prayer for the safe house, and special vocalists will sing joyfully to raise awareness with their gifts in the arts. The Chapel Lobby will provide shopping for the holidays to support local anti-trafficking organizations. Please bring extra cash or check to purchase all that's available. We suggest you register for this free event on Eventbrite and invite others by clicking here!

We also want to challenge you this holiday season to give to organizations in the fight against human trafficking. Our community forums have presented many different organizations to support. In the holiday season there are many creative opportunities to show your support. Shopping for gifts crafted by survivors, gifting to survivors, auction items online, and special deals. There has never been a better time to give! Our Human Trafficking Learning Community is also hosting a Frozen Character Dining Sing Along and Christmas Program night! This party is free of charge on Monday December 22nd from 5pm to 9pm. We continue our efforts in strengthening the community with values for our next generation of leadership as our first line of prevention! Click here to register!

Here are some online links to help bring hope to survivors of human trafficking this Christmas:

Gridlock Ministries Feast for the Soul Online Store www.mkt.com/feastforthesoul

Gridlock Ministries Auction Items www.charitybuzz/support/gridlock

WAR Chest Boutique Online Store or Naperville Store

Freedom Firm Cause Box Giving

Ink180 Documentary DVD

Eve's Angels Book Store

Salvation Army Anne's House Soaps 

 

Bright Endeavors Candle Shop 

Please Like an Unchained Love on Facebook!

 

 

 Join us on Friday, November 28, 5:00-9:00 p.m. to experience

A Feast for the Soul

Delectable Hors D'oeuvres • Hot Chocolate Bar • Coffee Bar • Wine Tasting

Live Entertainment • Costumed Carolers • Art Show Featuring Original Works by Survivors

Silent Auction • Ministry Tour & Displays  • Face Painting • North Pole Workshop • Photos with Santa!

Enjoy an Old-Fashioned Country Christmas A midst the

Rustic Beauty of a Restored 125-Year-Old Barn!

Millrose Restaurant, 45 S. Barrington Rd., South Barrington, IL 60010

To Register Click Here!

Food, activities and amenities will be provided free of charge.However, donations of any amount will be gratefully accepted and used to provide rescue and recovery services to victims and survivors of human trafficking across America this Christmas.
With each donation of $100 or more, guests will receive a complimentary 8.5 x 11 limited edition print of the artwork pictured below, signed by the artist, who is a survivor of child sex trafficking.

Concert for Human Trafficking

We Need Your Light Concert December 10th

Save the date for the annual concert to stir hearts and educate with real stories of women who have survived hardship within the sex trade. The Willow Creek Human Trafficking Ministry will be hosting the "We Need Your Light" mission minded vocal artist group as they support Refuge for Women. During this event Ked Frank, Founder/Executive Director of Refuge for Women will be interviewed about the needs in our community and a current graduate of their program will share her testimony. Pledge and pray with your community to open it's eyes and hearts to those trapped in the industry of exploitation, abuse, and trafficking. All CD sales and T-shirt sales and some other fun holiday shopping items will be available for the holiday season. 

Wednesday, December 10th7:30 p.m.
Willow Creek Community Church South Barrington

Let us know you are GOING on Eventbrite! Click HERE

To volunteer at a table or pass out programs click here
To contact "We Need Your Light" to host a church/partner concert to raise awareness click here

Canceled! No Bus to Kentucky!

In my first outreach while serving with Eve's Angels, I had about 10 phone calls, 4 meet ups, and 200 text messages with a gal who was an exotic dancer and prostitute in a Chicago strip club. We met and developed a relationship where I encouraged her and would pray in texts as she would have a shift. We discussed goals and reviewed plans and resources. One weekend she announced she could not do "it", she would arrive to work but would end up just sittng in the back. My eyes on the other end of the phone widened. Suddenly, it was up to me to calm her and reassure her there was a next step.

 She needed restoration, healing, and a program that would come along side her. She was "tired" and trust me, most couldn't walk one mile in her shoes. I was referred to call "Ked, in Kentucky" at Refuge for Women.
I was nervous and did not feel equipped to even make the phone call. Refuge for Women took care of the both of us for intake so she could have housing long term. All I had to do was get her to the bus, easy!?

Two days later we were at the bus station and I spiritually grew up about 100 years.I could feel her fear and doubt of facing some of her past during the program. We all can relate to closing the door on our past, and never attempting to share it with anyone, ever. My faith remained steadfast as I constantly tried to discuss with God my doubt and worry. The downtown station for her overnight ride was not exactly visually comforting. There was a four hour wait in the  middle of the night also. She was vulnerable and I couldn't stay with her for the ride.God kept anchoring a "period" at the end of each of my thoughts. I would say in my head "God, she isn't going to get on the bus, even if she does, she's not ready, she will leave at the next stop." God would reply with a ".", that's it, end of sentence, end of that thought. It was a feeling of God hearing me and understanding my concern, but dismissing my worry because He was in control. Long story short, she made it to Kentucky.

Since then, I have visited the Refuge in Kentucky. I explained to Ked that I never wanted to sit at a bus station again. I dream of the day when our volunteers can be with the women we were blessed to build relationships with as they are in the program so that our community can support them along the way.Will you help us cancel all bus tickets to Kentucky?

Out there is a house to be donated and we need to find it! None of us are doing enough to help, but all of us can attend the fundraising event.Today, mark your calendar for October 24th to officially open Refuge for Women Chicago to help women who are exploited and trafficked. Find a babysitter, cancel your plans, do whatever it takes to be there. If you don't "donate" ever, start on Oct. 24th with a small monthly give or share the event with others. From the bottom of my heart, I vow to cancel the bus to Kentucky.

October 24th- Refuge for Women Chicago Launch Night 

7:30-9:00 pm
935 W. Union Ave. Wheaton, IL
Join us as we hear from Ked Frank, Founder and Director of Refuge for Women, as he share's God's vision to restore exploited and trafficked women in Chicago. We will also hear from Congressman Peter Roskam and FBI Supervisory Special Agent, Vick Lombardo as they answer the question, " What is the one specific piece of information you hope our guest take away in regards to human trafficking in our area?"

Join us for this free fundraiser with live entertainment, desserts, and coffee!

Unforgettable Outreach Moments

Today we made phone calls to ads on backpage.com offering resources and prayer during a New-Name Ministry Call Center in South Barrington. Out of the 16 phone calls, during a particular call we prayed with a girl and I noticed she was in the car  with a friend. As usual we made the next call to another random ad. The next phone call went as follows:

Us: "Hi, my name is -------, we saw ads you had posted and are wondering if we could pray for you or help you with any resources?" 

Girl:"yah, I just prayed with you as you were on the phone with my friend and wanted to know if you can pray for me too?" So we laughed with pure joy out loud at the coincidence and prayed together again. What are the chances that the ads pulled and printed to call from days prior would be dialed to two ladies in the same car resulting in out loud laughter and encouragement!

 As volunteers serving, we believe we can "do" all things through Christ that strenghtens us, but more importantly, that those we serve can do all things through Christ who strengthens them...

Updates:

...a new baby of a safe and proud mama who has reconciled with her mother
...a new engagement for a new beginning
... healing of cancer, so serving is possible
... miraculous healing of sight to a victim to show God hears her prayer
... a family reunion to end addiction and exit the sex industry
... a rescue of 3 ladies this month from outreach efforts
... 16 new students enrolled to college to reach dreams God did not give up on
... new safe houses opening in our local area 

Make a difference:

"8 Days" Premiere- Sept. 30th at 5:30 pm in Wheaton
Ride For Refuge: October 4th Chicago/Elgin Bike Ride
Human Trafficking for India Gala: October 4th Streamwood IL

Beauty for Ashes Gift Baskets for Survivors- Mary Kay will match your donation, now through Thanksgiving

 Launch Party Friday Night Wheaton Safe House: October 24th Wheaton IL

September Events

**Featured Event**

September 17: Human Trafficking Forum--Teen Focus

7:30 -9 pm, Willow Creek South Barrington, Room TBD

Samantha Owens, Community Engagement Specialist from National Runaway Safeline shares an important message on how our children can be protected and equipped to prevent ever being at-risk and enslaved to human trafficking. The audience for this message are young adults, age 14 and older, parents, teachers and neighbors who want more information on keeping youth safe, off the streets and out of the clutches of the sex industry.

September 4th: "Country for the Cause"- Porchlight Counseling Services

7-9 pm, Gorton Community Center, 400 E. Illinois Road, Lake Forest

Porchlight Counseling Services has been serving students in the Chicago area by providing free, off-campus, therapy to college sexual assault survivors. Enjoy a wonderful night of country music in an intimate setting with three of Nashville's most treasured singer/songwriters, featuring Gary Nichols, Angela Hacker and James LeBlanc. Whether a fan or a musician yourself, you won't want to miss this show or the chance to meet three of country's best artists and nicest people!  Buy Tickets

September 6th - Volunteer Training with Emmaus Ministries
10:30am to 4:30pm, 921 W Wilson Ave 60640 (food provided)

Volunteers have always been at the foundation of Emmaus’ mission to, “make Jesus known on the streets among men involved in survival prostitution.” Our volunteers walk the streets each night, talking and listening to men, staff the Ministry Center: help cook meals, lead Bible studies, and build lasting relationships with the men. Some volunteers also give their time working in the office and assisting with different projects. No matter what role you play, we’re very grateful for your time, commitment, and heart for broken men! Please RSVP!

September 10,11,12th:  Eve's Angels Bible Study
Contact info@evesangels.org for more info.

September 13: TRAFFICK FREE's 5k Run Against Traffick

8 am, Diversey Harbor, Lincoln Park Register or Volunteer!

September 13 & 27:  Salvation Army PROMISE Anne's house visit (intercession needed)
10 am- 12 pm

September 16: Night of Prayer for Refuge For Women 
7:30 pm, Wheaton

Please join us for an evening of prayer and link arms with others who are passionate about bringing Refuge For Women to Chicago. Email Joanne for details on specific location. If you can't attend the prayer meeting, but would like to stay informed please visit and "Like" the Facebook page Here

September 18th: Freedom Readers Quarterly Book Club

7:00 pm, Willow Creek Crystal Lake

Our fall selection will be The White Umbrella: Walking with Survivors of Sex Trafficking by Mary Frances Bowley. Join us as we discuss real-life stories of healing and spiritual transformation and discuss how we as a community and individuals can be a part of walking with survivors and making an impact. Read the book on your own and join us for an evening of discussion. Join us on Facebook at Freedom Readers

September 21: New Name Call Center 
11:15 service (after worship),Willow Creek South Barrington, Room TBD
This ministry makes outgoing phone calls and offers prayer and assistance for girls in the adult entertainment industry. New Name has provided us with a script to guide us in our calls as well as a list of services that can provide help to the girls if needed. 

September 26: Girls Night Out Book Discussion

Girls With Swords by Lisa Bevere

6-8 pm, Willow Creek South Barrington, Dr. B's cafe

What if you discovered you have been entrusted with an invisible, invincible, and incorruptible weapon? Would you use it? Move beyond only study and begin to wield the Word of God! Discover with other women in our area how to fight human trafficking where ever you are in your spiritual journey. Please R.S.V.P with Holly hkoehler@ameritech.net, please use the link to purchase materials of your choice and don't forget to use amazon smile to support C.A.A.S.E as your charity! “If you don’t have a sword, sell your cloak and buy one!”—Jesus


September 27: Returning Hearts Event at Decatur Prison

Do you have a heart for those who have been incarcerated, sexually exploited, trafficked, and the children who are most vulnerable and at-risk for being the next victim? Join us for for an all day fun event, Reuniting Inmate Mom’s with their Children. Transportation Provided, 200 Volunteers Needed in a variety of fun roles!

This is a FREE event—a $20 donation is requested by Awana to offset costs.

Must be 18 years of age or older to serve & pass a background check by the prison.

The registration link for the Decatur Returning Hearts Celebration is now on line at awanalifeline.org. After you register, more specific information will come your way.

For immediate questions or concerns, contact: Jennifer jennifers@awana.org

Other Serving Opportunities:  We conduct monthly outreach to local massage parlors and spas.  Please contact Alyson if you are interested.   

Human Trafficking Freedom Coalition of Northern Illinois This newly formed group seeks to combat all forms of human trafficking in Northern Illinois. This includes McHenry and Kane counties! You can follow them on Facebook Here

Save the Date

October 4: Gridlock Ministries "Free Ride" College Initiative

October 4: Captive No More

October 16- November 23: ShadowTown II, The Johns

October 24: Refuge For Women Chicago- Launch Night!
7:30-9 pm, Church of the Resurrection: 935 W. Union Ave., Wheaton


October 29-31: SAFE Coalition for Human Rights Conference 

July 2014

*July Events*

July 1, July 15, July 29: Eve's Angels /A.R.M.E.D. Bible Study (Men & Women's Groups)

7 pm, Room B207,Willow Creek South Barrington

July 11 & 25: Summer Book Study

Undaunted by Christine Caine

6-8 pm, Willow Creek South Barrington, Dr. B's cafe

Let’s gather together as people of faith and learn to put our trust in God.  Please join us on this five week journey to figure out what God has called each of us to do.  Please purchase the book and study guide. Please RSVP to Laurette.

Future dates: /25, 8/1  

July 11: CSEC Training (Commerical Sexual Exploitation of Children)

9- 4:30, Crossroads Church, 1350 Illinois 137, Grayslake

Learn about the commercial sexual exploitation of adults and children in the Chicagoland area. Recognize the commercial sexual exploitation of children, detect risk factors, identify and effectively engage victims, and build skills necessary to serve youths affected by human trafficking.

Who should attend: Law Enforcement Personnel; Emergency Room Personnel; Medical & Mental Health Workers; Social Services Agency Personnel; Counselors; Youth and Recreational Agency Staff; Individuals from Religious Institutions and other fields who are in positions to serve youths; and other interested persons. Register here:
July 12, July 26:  Salvation Army PROMISE Anne's house visit (intercession needed)
10 am- 12 pm

July 12: Salvation Army STOP IT! Girls Empowerment Summit
8-1:30 : Juvenile Temporary Detention Center at 1100 S. Hamilton.

STOP-IT! will be partnering with the Cook County Juvenile Probation department for a girls empowerment conference. Volunteers needed:

* Set Up/Decorating
* Child Care 

* Gift Bag Donations

If you or your small group would like to volunteer in any of these areas, please contact Josi.

July 16:  New Moms Volunteer Training
6-7 pm, 5317 W. Chicago Avenue,Chicago
You will have the opportunity to tour the new facility, ask any questions you may have, and complete volunteer paperwork. Space is limited, register here.  If you have any concerns or questions, please contact Keisha.

July 27th: Quarterly Forum with Refuge for Women

1 pm, Willow Crystal Lake, 220 Exchange Drive, Suite A:  Room 107

Rescuing someone from the adult entertainment industry is considered by many to be the easy part. Restoring them and reintegrating them is the more difficult part. Join us as we hear from Ked Frank, founder and director of Refuge For Women in Lexington, KY - a faith-based aftercare program for women who wish to leave the sex industry. They have an amazing success rate of 79% of women who do not return to the industry after going through the program! Ked will be sharing about the home in KY and the plans for opening a home in the Chicago area in 2015.

Dates TBD:  We will hold our New-Name call center and spa outreach in July. 
If you are interested in participating please contact Sondra.  

Save the Date

August 4: Concert Fundraiser for The Dreamcatcher Foundation.

August 9: The Red Run 5k-Join us in Running Out Human Trafficking!

Presidential Park; 700 Highland Ave, Algonquin

Run or walk in a red dress (or anything red) and take a stand against child trafficking & exploitation. Register Here.

Volunteers still needed! Email Cathy. 

August 14/15: Annual Cook County Human Trafficking Task Force Conference

8:30 - 5:00,  Loyola University;  Regents Hall in Lewis Towers; 820 N. Michigan Avenue

The Conference features two days of innovative presentations by local and national experts in the anti-trafficking field.    Register Here

June events

*Featured June Events*

June 18: Human Trafficking Forum: How Can Men Prevent Human Trafficking?

7:30-9, Willow Creek South Barrington, Blue Sky 2

Hear from men involved in the fight as we examine the vital role men can play in preventing trafficking in our communities. Whether you are a father, business person, educator, professional or just someone who cares about the dignity of others, learn the pro-active steps you can take to combat this injustice.. Register

June 13: Summer Book Study

Undaunted by Christine Caine

6-8 pm, Willow Creek South Barrington, Dr. B's cafe

Let’s gather together as people of faith and learn to put our trust in God.  Please join us on this five week journey to figure out what God has called each of us to do.  Please purchase the book and study guide and be ready to discuss the first lesson on June 13th. 

Future dates: 6/27, 7/11, 7/25, 8/1  Please RSVP to Laurette.

_______________________________________________________________________

June 1: Human Trafficking: What you need to know and how you can help
1 -2 pm Church of the Resurrection in the St. Gregory Room, 935 W. Union Ave; Wheaton

Discover how God's people are ending exploitation in Chicagoland and beyond. Learn how you can make a difference. Speakers from New Name, Refuge for Women, and author Dawn Jewell.  RSVP helpful, but drop-ins welcome. Please bring a small gift bag item for New Name's local outreach: a nice chocolate bar, small lotion, Caribou or Starbucks gift card ($5 or $10), lip gloss, or trendy jewelry item. Items are used in New Name's gift bags for outreach to locally exploited women. Contact: diana@churchrez.org

June 3: Eve's Angels /A.R.M.E.D. Bible Study (Men & Women's Groups)

7 pm, Room B207,Willow Creek South Barrington

June 10: Take Action with IJM- Be A Force for Freedom!
Call your members of Congress and ask them to take action against slavery! June 10 is Lobby Day, where advocates from across the nation head to Capitol Hill as part of the annual IJM Advocacy Summit and meet with their Senators and Representatives in person. Ending modern-day slavery is important to all of us. Let’s make sure our members of Congress get that message loud and clear – in person and over the phone!

Find out more!

June 14:  Salvation Army PROMISE Anne's house visit 10-12 (intercession needed) 

June 14: Trot Against Trafficking Run/Walk
8:30 am, Washington Elementary School, 1500 Stewart Ave,  Park Ridge  Register Now!

June 14: Amazing Grace Fundraiser
3- 4:30, Friendship Park Conservatory, 395 W. Algonquin Rd., Des Plaines

Join PROMISE for the second annual “Amazing Grace”, an afternoon of classics and spirituals performed by professional opera singers and soloists! The fundraiser will benefit Salvation Army Anne’s House. Details here: 

June 17: Eve's Angels /A.R.M.E.D. Bible Study (Men & Women's Groups)

7 pm, Room B207,Willow Creek South Barrington

June 28:  Salvation Army PROMISE Anne's house visit 10-12 (intercession needed) 

June 29: New Name Call Center Lunch and Serve
Immediately after the 11:15 Service, Willow Creek South Barrington, Room B206 
We will gather and have lunch then begin the call center right after.  

This ministry makes outgoing phone calls and offers prayer and assistance for girls in the adult entertainment industry. Men and Women welcome,  Kids are welcome for lunch but may not stay during the calls.  Please RSVP or contact us with questions.

June 14th events

2 great events on June 14th!

Save the date!

Trot against Trafficking Run / Walk 

​

Saturday, June 14, 2014 at 8:30 AM

​ 

Washington Elementary School

1500 Stewart Ave Park Ridge, Illinois

​

Register Now!

Amazing Grace Fundraiser

Join PROMISE on June 14, 2014 for the second annual “Amazing Grace”, an afternoon of classics and spirituals performed by professional opera singers and soloists! The fundraiser will benefit Salvation Army Anne’s House. Details here: 

3-4:30 pm

Friendship Park Conservatory

395 W. Algonquin Road

Des Plaines, IL

May 2014 Events

May Featured Events

May  10/11- Mother's day service with Christine Caine
Sat. 5 pm, Sun. 9 & 11:15, Willow Creek South Barrington

Refuel and celebrate this Mother's Day with a message from Christine Caine! An international speaker, author and abolitionist, the Founder of The A21 Campaign will be helping us celebrate moms and live a life undaunted!

Join section 101/102F after the 11:15  for a quick cup of coffee and cupcakes on us! We are excited to experience this special day together with friends & family with kids activities, live music and celebrate moms! Please RSVP Here:

May 5th: Book Discussion:  Girls Like Us by Rachel Lloyd.

7 - 9 pm, Willow Creek South Barrington, Room B204

Read the book on your own and join us for a discussion of the book on May 5th.    Email Laurette to sign up. Books are also available at Seeds Bookstore at Willow SB. 

May 10th: CSEC Training (Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children)

8 - 2 pm, Willow Creek Crystal Lake, 220 Exchange Drive, Suite A, Crystal Lake

Victims of human trafficking may look like many of the people you see everyday. Would you be able to recognize them if you came in contact with one? Would you know what signs to look for? Would you know what questions to ask or who to call? This seminar will prepare you to recognize the commercial exploitation of children, identify the risk factors and much more. Agenda and cost information can be found Here or you may Register Here.  Space is limited. Share this flier with anyone who may be interested.

 May 1: West Chicagoland Anti Trafficking Coalition Mixer
 7-8:30 pm, Missions Place is at 370 W. Front Street, Wheaton

Come and learn more about this important issue and how you can make a difference by becoming an abolitionist.  This informal gathering will feature Rep. Peter Roskam, and with his wife Elizabeth, along with a panel discussion on human trafficking. On the panel will be an agent from the Office of Homeland Security and representatives from local non-profit organizations who are working to combat human trafficking in our area and globally: New Name, Reclaim13, Women at Risk International, Compass Church Global/Justice Ministries. RSVP

May 5: Night of prayer for Refuge for Women
Please join us for an evening of prayer on May 5th at 7:30 pm in Wheaton. Link arms with others who are passionate about bringing Refuge For Women to Chicago and help us cover this issue in prayer.  Email Anne for details on specific location.

May 6: Eve's Angels /A.R.M.E.D. Bible Study (Men & Women's Groups)

7 pm, Room B207,Willow Creek South Barrington

May 10: Salvation Army PROMISE Anne's house visit 10-12 (intercession needed)

May 10: CAASE presents The Whistleblower
3-7 pm, Willow Creek Chicago, 418 S. Wabash Ave, Chicago

Join CAASE's Young Activist Council for an afternoon screening of The Whistleblower, followed by Q&A with author Kathryn Bolkovac, the inspirational woman who risked her own life to uncover human trafficking and prostitution and their connections to private mercenary contractors, the UN, and the U.S. State Department in post-war Bosnia. Bolkovac’s story astounded the world with the release of The Whistleblower film starring Rachel Weisz as Bolkovac. Buy Tickets here:

 

May 15: Traffick Free Freedom Forum
6:30-8:30 pm, Grind Chicago, 2 N LaSalle Street, 14th Floor, Chicago

Join Traffick Free for their annual Freedom Forum - a panel of experts shedding a layer of insight regarding the truth of human trafficking as it affects Chicago. This year's panel will center around how to best support survivors in Chicago--specifically diving into programs currently available and areas/services that still need to be addressed. 
Panelists included: Cook County State's Attorney's Office, Teen Living Programs, CeaseFire and Traffick Free. Guest moderator will be Gwen Macsai, host of Re:sound broadcast weekly on WBEZ. Wine & small bites will be provided. Please register!

May 20: Eve's Angels /A.R.M.E.D. Bible Study (Men & Women's Groups)
7 pm, Room B207,Willow Creek South Barrington

May 21: New Moms Volunteer Orientation

5317 W. Chicago Avenue., Chicago, IL 60651  

Register by clicking the link: Wednesday, May 21st from 6:00pm-7:00pm. Space is limited and you must register to attend. You will have the opportunity to tour our new facility, ask any questions you may have, and complete volunteer paperwork.  If you have any concerns or questions, please contact Keisha Etienne at ketienne@newmomsinc.org

May 21: Slavery Uncovered: Chicago - A Visual Advocacy
3- 6 pm, Art Works Projects, 625 N. Kingsbury, Chicago

Please join us for an opening reception for Slavery Uncovered, a new visual advocacy campaign addressing human trafficking and forced labor in the Chicagoland area. Featuring a conversation with photographers Nina Berman, Jon Lowenstein, and Anne Ream, Founder and Creative Director, The Voices and Faces Project.

May 24: Salvation Army PROMISE Anne's house visit 10-12 (intercession needed)

May 31: Dance for Freedom
7:30-10pm. Arthur Murray Dance Studio, 608 E. Golf Rd., Schaumburg

All you have to do is show up, pay $10, and dance until your heart's content!  There will be a beginners group class at 7:30 for any non dancers out there. 100% of the money  will go to the End It Movement!   Email for more info.

***Save the date! ****

June Men's Forum event (6/18), Amazing Grace Fundraiser (6/14) and Trot against Trafficking (6/8)

The New Lens Project uses a trauma informed curriculum to teach photography and activism to youth populations whose voices need to be heard. We are currently in partnership with The Dreamcatcher foundation, making art with girls who are survivors of sex-trafficking.

Their work will be on exhibition from April 28th-May 2nd, hosted by Columbia College at 33 E Congress room 101. The opening will be on April 28th from 6-8pm.

All proceeds benefit The Dreamcatcher Foundation and The New Lens Project.

More Great April Events!

April 15, 7-8:30 -Guys only Event!

Moody Bible Institute, Alumni Auditorium, 820 N. LaSalle, Chicago

 

Moody 's College group "Lostandfound" is hosting a night dedicated to men. We oftentimes have many reservations and questions about sex trafficking and about how we can help and fight against it. This night is all about answering questions and learning more from men who are already doing great work.

This night features a dear friend, who has spent 30 years of his life trafficking women across the country as a pimp and is now fighting against everything he previously embodied. Come hear his story and then stick around for the expert Q/A panel afterwards.  Joining this former pimp we have Caleb Probst, the Outreach Associate for CAASE and Chris Baker, the Founder of INK180.

You won't want to miss this unique event! 

April 26,  Porchlight Counseling Country Western Bash Fundraiser
Porchlight Counseling Services is a major supporter for victims of sex trafficking.  Please consider attending their fundraiser!

UPCOMING EVENTS

Country Western Bash April 26th! Hey Y'all! Join us for a Boot Scootin' Good Time & help a Great Cause by joining Porchlight Counseling Services Saturday, April 26 6:30 to 11:30 p.m. at Gorton Community Center, 400 E. Illinois Road, Lake Forest (short walk from Metra) Country Western Bash! Enjoy a catered meal from the renowned Froggy's French Cafe, cocktails, silent auction, live country acts and line dancing with Arthur Murray instructors. Nationally known educator and sexual assault advocate Gail Stern will give an engaging, powerful presentation at 7 p.m. in the Gorton auditorium. Dinner, dancing, music and auction to follow. Nashville recording artist Gary Nichols (with the Billboard hit “Unbroken Ground” and singer for bluegrass Grammy-nominated group The SteelDrivers) is making a special trip north to entertain us, along with regional country favorite Mandy Z and Rural Route One. Western attire encouraged, but not optional.  Your donation of $140 per person provides all of the above and will help college survivors of sexual assault receive free, high-quality counseling to stay in school and reclaim their lives. Make your donation/ticket purchase here http://www.porchlightcounseling.org/donate.php Checks also are accepted and can be mailed to: Porchlight Counseling, P.O. Box 1081, Evanston, IL, 60204. Questions? Please call 847-368-6531

March Events

*Featured Event*

March 19: Human Trafficking Forum
7:30-9, Willow Creek South Barrington, Chapel

Join us as we welcome a guest speaker from the FBI!
Learn about the FBI’s programs to not only catch those who engage in human trafficking, but to also come alongside organizations in the community that provide supportive services to those who have been victimized. You’ll also have the opportunity to help assemble gift bags to support local outreach efforts. Register

March 1: Porn Exposed: Uncovering Pornography Exhibit

10am- 10pm, Moody Bible Institute, 820 N. Lasalle Blvd., Sweeting 4

A seven room exhibit that details the destruction pornography can wreak on people psychologically, theologically, and relationally through art, media and research done by Moody students. The connection between pornography and sex trafficking will be highlighted, as well as how Jesus Christ responds to our sexual sin.

 Find out more and RSVP

March 1: One Light Self- Defense Workshop (FREE)  hosted by WAR Chest Boutique
10:30am-12:30pm, Kroehler Family YMCA Gymnasium, 34 S Washington St., Naperville

WAR Chest Boutique is an arm of Women At Risk International and is treasure chest of items made or sourced by women who have been trafficked and rescued or who are at-risk. 

One Light Self-Defense: preparing the hearts, minds, and bodies of women around the world. Our goal emphasizes a holistic approach in preparing women to face, avoid, or heal from physical violence. Register

March 7: The Dreamcatcher Foundation Fundraiser at Dave & Busters
5 pm -12 am at any Chicagoland D & B

10% of your food purchase at any of the 3 Dave and Busters in and around Chicagoland will go toward the Dreamcatcher Foundation. In addition you can purchase a $20 D&B Game card for only $10 and all the proceeds will also go towards TDF. More info here:


March 8:  Salvation Army PROMISE Anne's house visit 10-12 (intercession needed) 

March11: Eve's Angels /A.R.M.E.D. Bible Study (Men & Women's Groups)

7 pm, Room B207,Willow Creek South Barrington

March 15: New Moms Open House
6-7 pm, 5317 W. Chicago Avenue

Learn about the impact we're having on adolescent parents and to take a tour of the Transformation Center. You'll enjoy a continental breakfast and have a chance to talk to staff, board members, and participants.  The mission of New Moms, Inc. is to enable, empower and equip at-risk adolescent parents and their children through services and mentoring based on Christian values. RSVP Here:

March 22:   Salvation Army PROMISE Anne's house visit 10-12 (intercession needed) 

March 25: Eve's Angels /A.R.M.E.D. Bible Study (Men & Women's Groups)

7 pm, Room B207,Willow Creek South Barrington

March 25: Administer Justice
"Serving Victims of Human Trafficking & Violence: A Legal Perspective"

4-5:30 pm, Elgin, IL (1.5 CLE credits for attorneys)
Administer Justice launched the project ATLAST (Attorneys Targeting Labor And Sex Trafficking). This program assists victims of sex and labor trafficking as well as victims of domestic violence and violent crimes. 

To find out more and RSVP please contact dwolf@administerjustice.org.

March 29: Human Trafficking: What Can I/We do? Conference
8 am- 4 pm, Catholic Theological Union, 5416 S. Cornell Ave. Chicago

The program consists of presentations and panel discussions by educators, medical, legal and governmental professionals, service providers, law enforcement personnel, and community members from within the anti-human trafficking movement They will cover a wide variety of issues related to human trafficking, including identifying and helping the children, women and men exploited by it. There will also be Q&A and table discussion.
Register Here:



***Save the date! May 10th CSEC Training Hosted by Willow Creek Crystal Lake
More details here: