A Successful Evening: The Collaborative to End Human Trafficking’s Annual Benefit
On September 19, 2024, the Collaborative to End Human Trafficking hosted its Annual Benefit at Windows on the River in Cleveland, and it was a resounding success. From 5 to 8 p.m., community members gathered to raise awareness and funds for the vital mission of eradicating human trafficking in the region. We are grateful to all of our event sponsors and especially our presenting sponsor The Sisters of Humility of Mary.
Guests enjoyed an evening filled with camaraderie, live music from The Cleveland Pops, and a selection of cocktails, wine, beer, and heavy appetizers. The atmosphere buzzed with hope and determination as attendees engaged with one another and learned more about the ongoing fight against trafficking.
The highlight of the evening was the keynote address by Katherine Chon, Senior Advisor for Trafficking in Persons at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Chon, a renowned advocate in the field, shared insights from the nation’s first human trafficking prevention report, which she had recently led and compiled. Her presentation shed light on the critical issues surrounding human trafficking and the steps necessary to combat them.
Kirsti Mouncey, president & CEO of the Collaborative to End Human Trafficking, emphasized the importance of the event, stating, “Human trafficking remains one of the most pressing issues our community faces. Our annual event is an important opportunity to hear from national advocates, honor outstanding champions, and raise needed funding to advance our community-wide prevention, intervention, and survivor empowerment strategies.”
This year, the Collaborative honored two extraordinary champions for their dedication to ending trafficking in Ohio: U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown and Maya Simek, ESQ, LISW-S, MSW.
Senator Brown has long been a prominent advocate, working tirelessly to enhance protections for trafficking victims and improve law enforcement tools to combat traffickers. His support for the Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act was particularly noteworthy, as it aims to increase resources for victim support and prevention efforts. Through a collaborative approach, Brown has focused on addressing the root causes of trafficking, such as economic vulnerability and lack of education.
Maya Simek, a clinical law professor and director of Case Western Reserve School of Law’s Human Trafficking Law Clinic, has significantly advanced local human trafficking efforts through policy and evidence-based practices. Her work integrates law and social work, emphasizing holistic solutions for both trafficking survivors and the LGBTQ+ community.
The event successfully raised nearly $100,000 to support prevention, intervention, and survivor empowerment initiatives. The energy in the room was palpable as attendees left with renewed hope and commitment to continue the fight against human trafficking.
The Annual Benefit served as a reminder of the collective strength of the community in addressing this pressing issue, driving meaningful change for a safer and more just world. With the support of passionate advocates and dedicated champions, the Collaborative to End Human Trafficking is well-positioned to continue its vital work.
