Because of one donor’s talent and generosity, Willow’s counseling rooms were recently revamped to create a welcoming and relaxing environment. Susie Ver, Founder of Ver Designs, designed two counseling rooms and two offices in Willow’s aftercare homes. Volunteer Casey Hoins helped execute Susie’s designs on the ground in Uganda.

At RSM, respect, integrity, teamwork, excellence, and stewardship are the values that define the firm and its culture. RSM is committed to their clients and the communities in which they operate. The team at RSM’s Irvine office has been providing pro-bono accounting services to Willow International for the few years.

In 2018, Willow International launched its Legal Services Program. Funding for the program was made possible by Katten Muchin Rosenman Foundation, Inc—a branch of Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP.

Drew Hoeven, President and Chairman of Westport Properties, Inc. and US Storage Centers, Inc. stated “US Storage Centers is proud to contribute to such a meaningful cause. We look forward to continuing our partnership with Willow International and making a difference in the lives of human trafficking victims everywhere.”

This past March I had the amazing opportunity to travel to Uganda to attend the judicial training that Willow was instrumental in organizing. As a funder, I often take trips to visit sites and/or organized events. Most of the time, I don’t know what to expect. I like walking in blind and letting the grantees show me what they want me to see. It’s an opportunity for the organizations to show their perspective on the issues and their solutions.

“It’s good to take risks,” she said, head cocked to one side with a twinkle in her eye. We were deep in the heart of rural Masaka, a Ugandan district renowned for its lush villages, paved highway, proximity to a known cannibal tribe, and delicious pork. This interview was the third in our first full day of field research on vulnerable communities’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding human trafficking.

Willow international has empowered and supported me a lot. I was hopeless but Willow gave me hope. I have learned many different skills and I am ready to be a job creator not a job seeker. Willow is like a real mother when it comes to healing broken hearts. I was heartbroken in so many ways.I had not shared my painful story, but when I came to Willow I got the courage to share my story and Willow taught me how to overcome my pain. After graduation, I want to be exemplary in my village.

Large sunglasses and a scarf with the words “I love Jesus” covered Adie’s head and face as she stood before a room full of the country’s most powerful leaders. Adie’s Willow case manager sat on her right, holding her hand tightly. To Adie’s left, sat 3 other brave survivors of sex trafficking. The room was silent as she took the floor.

I listening carefully to the words they were passionately singing. “All I require for life God has given me and I know who I am.” It was so clear that they had begun to believe the words they were singing. “Take a look at me I’m a wonder. I’m beautiful. I know who I am.”

Millions of men, women, and children around the world are living in slavery today. Many of us hear about it and want to do something, but the issue can seem overwhelming. We created a list that outlines 10 easy ways to help fight human trafficking. Together, we can help end human trafficking and provide restorative care to survivors.