Every sex trafficking journey intertwines countless stories of resilience, compassion, and profound transformation. At the heart of this tapestry are two remarkable individuals at REST: Mandy and Cecil, whose dedication and care make a difference every day. May is Mental Health Awareness Month and we invite you to get to know why they chose REST.
Mandy's Journey: A Path of Compassion
In 2014, Mandy attended a REST community training and was stirred by a profound sense of purpose. She dove headfirst into the organization's work. Over the years, Mandy has worn many hats within REST: volunteer, case manager, program director, and now, mental health therapist.
In the past year, Mandy has engaged more than 100 unique REST clients, embarking on a journey of healing, identifying therapeutic goals, addressing past and current trauma, and learning new coping skills. Clients speak highly of Mandy, praising her understanding, empathy, and unwavering support. “You really get me,” are words shared with Mandy.
Mandy has a Master's Degree, 22 years of experience, and specializes in complex trauma and dissociative disorders, common after surviving trafficking. Through therapies like Internal Family Systems and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, she empowers her clients to regulate their emotions and access inner resilience.
Finding peace from loved ones, the companionship of dogs, and the simple joys of life, Mandy manages the emotional toll of this work.
Cecil's Dedication: A Beacon of Light
Meet Cecil, the wellness coach and addiction counselor at REST. With a passion for helping others navigate life's challenges, Cecil brings a wealth of experience to his role. His journey to REST was born from personal struggles and triumphs, including 10 years of sobriety and obtaining his Substance Use Disorder Professional license.
Drawn to REST by its mission to expand pathways to freedom, safety, and hope, Cecil embodies the organization's values in his work. Through a relationship-first approach, he walks alongside survivors of sex trafficking, providing support and resources without barriers. For Cecil, every day is an opportunity to make a difference in someone's life, to offer hope where it's needed most, and communicate REST’s underlying belief, “Everyone deserves to be loved.”
In his quest for mental well-being, he carves out moments for prayer into his routine on his way to REST. Walking two miles each day and making sure to get enough sleep at night, Cecil prioritizes taking care of himself while he cares for others.
We honor Mandy and Cecil during Mental Health Awareness Month, as they stand like beacons of light in darkness. Their dedication to healing and resilience inspires us all to walk alongside those in need, offering love, understanding, and hope for a brighter tomorrow.