A Note from Amanda

With so much going on around us—so much pain, so much loss, so much conflict—I know it can be hard to lean in and take a closer look at the realities of sex trafficking in our community. And yet, I promise you this, while you will encounter stories here that shed light on the tragedies connected to trafficking, what resounds more than anything here is love. 

Healing, authentic, nonjudgmental love that shows up day after day, even in the face of doubt and hardship, changes everything. It’s essential that we offer services that are uniquely designed to support survivors of trafficking on their healing journey, but it’s love that makes them work. And REST is filled with team members who are passionate about both. 

Our team continues to show up every single day to meet people who are exploited in the sex trade right where they are, building relationships that help break down shame and sending the message: “you deserve to be loved, and you deserve a life free from exploitation.” In fact, in the face of so many hardships this last year, we get to celebrate that REST has collectively served over 3000 individuals since we began in 2009! 

I am overwhelmed with gratitude for all of our supporters and partners who make this work possible and who stand with us as we take steps to multiply our impact. Thank you for leaning in. It’s worth it. 

Amanda Hightower | Executive Director