End Human Trafficking
Human Trafficking is the exploitation of a person for commercial sex or forced labor.
 
THE ISSUE
  • Human Trafficking is the fastest growing and second largest criminal enterprise in the world.
  • Annually, Human Trafficking is a $150 billion industry worldwide.
  • It is a global issue that impacts every community in every country
    • Estimated 25 - 42 million victims worldwide; 2-4 million in the U.S
    • Victims come from all demographics, all communities
    • Youth are particularly vulnerable; often trafficked for sex as young as 9-13
 
WHY ROTARY?
  • Rotary is uniquely positioned to solve global issues, with over 3 million Rotarians worldwide
  • Rotary has a successful track record – we have helped eradicate polio!
  • We can mobilize thousands of Rotary clubs to tackle this issue in their own communities.
 
MISSION OF THE INITIATIVE
To end Human Trafficking in the communities covered by Rotary Districts 5950, 5960 and 5580 (Minnesota, North Dakota, Western Wisconsin and portions of Ontario)
  • We will provide Rotary Clubs with information, resources and toolkits to engage their communities and support local organizations and agencies working to end trafficking.
  • Our focus is on preventing human trafficking before it occurs.
    • How? By raising awareness, educating children & youth, reducing risk factors that make children vulnerable, and stopping the demand.

WHAT CAN OUR CLUB DO? 
 
Raise Awareness
  • Sponsor a speaker for your school, church, community group or business.
  • Host an event to raise awareness and inform community members about this horrible crime.
  • Ask local businesses to post Safe Harbor posters with hotline numbers.
  • Post articles on Facebook and on your Club’s website. Follow organizations working to end it.
  • Talk about human trafficking with friends, family and colleagues.
 
Educate Children and Youth
  • Work with local schools to bring human trafficking and assault prevention curriculum to help youth recognize and avoid dangerous situations.
  • Encourage schools to host training programs for teachers and parents to recognize the signs of trafficking and learn what to do if they think someone is being trafficked.
  • Engage youth to form student groups or campaigns to stand up against trafficking
 
Reduce Risk Factors
  • Partner with a local organization working with at-risk youth; provide funds and volunteer support.
  • Support programs that provide shelter and resources to homeless and runaway youth.
  • Volunteer for programs offering victim support. Donate funds and needed supplies for survivors.
  • Collaborate with neighboring Rotary Clubs to increase your impact in the community.
  •  
Stop the Demand
  • Partner with organizations that help individuals understand the damage caused by sex trafficking.
  • Support programs that teach youth about healthy relationships and respecting women and girls.
  • Provide funding for organizations that are working to end violence against women and children.
  • Take a personal stand to promote equality and to work to shift attitudes and norms.
  • Become an ambassador for change!

 

Rotary is the largest global service organization, with clubs in over 33,000 communities worldwide. Rotarians are dedicated to providing service to others and advancing peace and goodwill, within their communities and around the world.

Why is Rotary involved in this issue?

  • Rotary is uniquely positioned to solve global issues, with over 1.2 million Rotarians worldwide.
  • Rotary has a successful track record – we have helped eradicate polio!
  • We can mobilize thousands of Rotary clubs to tackle this issue in their own communities.

OTHER RESOURCES 
 
Bemidji Rotary Club Contact: Jim Hodgson | jimhodgson@oakhills.edu | 218-556-6277