Black entrepreneurs have long been at the heart of economic progress, resilience, and innovation, yet the fight for economic justice and opportunity remains ongoing. This Black History Month, REST is honoring the 2025 theme, “African Americans and Labor,” by spotlighting Black-owned businesses and their vital contributions to our communities. Economic empowerment is key to breaking cycles of exploitation, including sex trafficking, and investing in Black businesses helps create sustainable opportunities and stronger communities. Throughout February, explore our curated list of Black-owned businesses, discover new ways to support Black entrepreneurship, and join us in building a more just and equitable future.
What if your resolution this year could help change lives? Start 2025 with purpose by joining the mission to end sex trafficking and create freedom, safety, and hope in our communities. Human trafficking impacts vulnerable populations right here in Seattle, including youth, those experiencing homelessness, and communities of color. This January, during National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month, REST is hosting events, workshops, and advocacy campaigns to inspire action. Together, we can build a future where freedom and dignity are accessible to all.
From childhood trauma to years of exploitation, Queen’s life has been marked by unthinkable challenges. Yet, through sheer resilience and the right support, she found the courage to begin rebuilding her life in ways she never thought possible. Discover Queen’s inspiring journey—one of survival, strength, and a relentless pursuit of hope.
This Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we’re shedding light on the link between domestic violence and sex trafficking. Both involve manipulation, isolation, and control, leaving survivors vulnerable. At REST, we offer support through our crisis hotline, emergency shelter, and other services. Learn how you can recognize the signs, take action, and support survivors.
We are excited to announce Elizabeth Hodges as REST's new CEO. With over 20 years of nonprofit leadership experience, Elizabeth is deeply committed to our mission of supporting survivors of sex trafficking. Her extensive background in strengthening communities facing social and economic barriers, along with her passion for empowering vulnerable populations, makes her the ideal leader for REST. Join us in welcoming Elizabeth as she leads us into this next chapter of growth and impact!
Know a woman making a difference in her work or community? Nominate her for our #CommunityHERoes spotlight! Throughout March, we’ll feature inspiring women on social media, sharing their stories and impact. Submissions are open until March 3, so nominate early to ensure a spot. Team members, managers, investors, clients, and community leaders are all eligible—self-nominations welcome!
The myth that the Super Bowl is the largest trafficking event has been debunked, yet sex trafficking happens daily in our communities. While large events can increase vulnerabilities, the systems enabling trafficking exist year-round. This Super Bowl weekend, you can make a difference. A MOD Pizza employee and survivor shares how support changed her life and why she’s giving back. On Feb. 9, National Pizza Day, MOD Pizza will donate 25% of sales at participating locations to REST, helping provide freedom, safety, and hope for survivors. Read her story and join us in turning every slice into support.
Black entrepreneurs have long been at the heart of economic progress, resilience, and innovation, yet the fight for economic justice and opportunity remains ongoing. This Black History Month, REST is honoring the 2025 theme, “African Americans and Labor,” by spotlighting Black-owned businesses and their vital contributions to our communities. Economic empowerment is key to breaking cycles of exploitation, including sex trafficking, and investing in Black businesses helps create sustainable opportunities and stronger communities. Throughout February, explore our curated list of Black-owned businesses, discover new ways to support Black entrepreneurship, and join us in building a more just and equitable future.
What if your resolution this year could help change lives? Start 2025 with purpose by joining the mission to end sex trafficking and create freedom, safety, and hope in our communities. Human trafficking impacts vulnerable populations right here in Seattle, including youth, those experiencing homelessness, and communities of color. This January, during National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month, REST is hosting events, workshops, and advocacy campaigns to inspire action. Together, we can build a future where freedom and dignity are accessible to all.
Thanksgiving is a time for connection and meaningful conversations. It’s also an opportunity to raise awareness about pressing issues like sex trafficking. This blog offers compassionate tips on how to discuss the realities of trafficking, share impactful stories, and encourage prevention and solutions. Whether you’re sharing facts or simply raising awareness that it happens close to home, every conversation can inspire understanding and action. Read the full guide and make a difference this Thanksgiving.
Most of the photographs on this website are stock photography, featuring models used for illustrative purposes only. With few carefully evaluated exceptions, we do not publish or share photos of REST clients.
