Join The Struggle
Fighting human trafficking is everyone’s responsibility. Here’s how you can join us in creating a better future.
When The Spring first opened its doors to the Tulsa community in 1980, we functioned with a singular, powerful mission: offering a safe haven for women to escape domestic violence and abuse. All these years later, we still hold strong to that purpose, and we’ve assisted thousands of people move into stable situations and into restoration. But as times have changed, we’ve continued to broaden the scope of the life-changing services we provide.
In 2012, we became the first shelter in Oklahoma to be certified by the State Attorney General’s office, enabling us to offer shelter and restoration services for victims of human sex trafficking. To this day, we’re the only faith-based shelter in the state that’s been certified. This expertise has allowed us to offer aid during a dramatic rise in trafficking across the country and globe:
According to the United States Department of Justice, the number of individuals prosecuted for human trafficking more than doubled in the decade from 2011 to 2021.
Organizations studying and fighting human trafficking estimate that there are over 27 million victims worldwide at any given time.
Human trafficking has become a $150 billion industry globally.
Our supporters often ask us: what can I do? We know that action can feel daunting in the face of such overwhelming odds, but each and every person has the responsibility to act. Here are a few simple steps you can take to help eradicate modern-day slavery.
Educate Yourself.
One of the most important ways you can take up the fight against human trafficking is by educating yourself about what this crime really looks like. Due to cultural misinformation or inaccurate media depictions, a number of “myths” about trafficking have taken hold of the public imagination. It’s vital to understand what trafficking really is, how it really happens, and what can be done to stop it. One great place to start is Human Trafficking 101, a free course created by Polaris to educate the public.
At The Spring, we’re proud to offer education opportunities to our community and church partners. If you’re interested in our team conducting training for your church or business, reach out to us today.
Advocate for Survivors.
Advocacy work can take many forms. Maybe it means contacting your elected representatives and urging them to act on legislation that combats trafficking and aids survivors. Maybe it means helping to spread the truth about human trafficking to friends and family and through social media. Maybe it means volunteering at an organization that works on the front lines against trafficking. There are numerous volunteer opportunities here at The Spring, and we’d be happy to help connect you with a role that fits your gifting and passion.
Give.
It's obvious: the organizations on the front line of this vital fight can’t operate without funds, and The Spring is no different. If you’re interested in contributing to our mission, consider making a gift. Your generosity makes a tangible difference in the lives of survivors of human trafficking and domestic abuse.
The fight to end modern-day slavery can seem overwhelming, but these simple steps can make a big difference. Join us as we seek to offer hope and advocacy to survivors.
You can read about more human trafficking myths here, courtesy of our friends at Polaris.
