Vanguard University Launches Human Trafficking Awareness Program

Categories: College University AthleticsCollege/University NewsEducation

Students actively participating in discussions about human trafficking awareness at Vanguard University's program.

News Summary

Vanguard University has initiated a proactive human trafficking awareness program targeting high school students in Orange County. Launched by the Global Center for Women and Justice and funded by a generous grant, the ‘Safe Communities, Safe Kids’ initiative aims to educate students about the harsh realities of human trafficking while fostering a dialogue within schools. Engaging activities and presentations are designed to empower students to recognize and prevent trafficking within their communities.

Vanguard University Launches Human Trafficking Awareness Program for High School Students in Orange County

In the sunny city of Orange County, a pressing issue has sparked a proactive movement among local educators and students alike. As the shadow of human trafficking looms, Vanguard University has stepped up to shed light on this critical situation with an engaging awareness program designed specifically for high school students.

Can you believe that the very first recognized victim of human trafficking in Orange County was an Egyptian girl, who tragically endured two years of enslavement by a couple in Irvine back in 2002? This heartbreaking story serves as a stark reminder that human trafficking is closer than many think, even in communities often perceived as safe havens.

Fast forward to today, the courageous Shyima Hall, once a victim herself, is now a passionate advocate, sharing her story to raise awareness and help prevent others from facing similar fates. It’s voices like hers that fuel the efforts of Vanguard University’s “Live2Free” awareness club, which consists of enthusiastic peer educators eager to educate their peers about the realities of human trafficking.

The program, entitled “Safe Communities, Safe Kids”, initiated by Vanguard’s Global Center for Women and Justice, aims to bolster awareness and prevention education about human trafficking in public schools. Funded by a generous $825,000 grant from the Samueli Foundation, this three-year initiative is set to make a significant impact in the community.

Students participating in the Live2Free program present the well-researched curriculum collaboratively, and they even receive compensation for their efforts through the grant. The Huntington Beach Union High School District has embraced this initiative, with hopes of expanding the program’s reach to other school districts throughout Orange County.

Recently, a group of enthusiastic freshman students at Westminster High School experienced a vital lesson on human trafficking. The presentation covered not only the stark realities of labor and sex trafficking but also delved into related issues like “sextortion” and grooming. To illustrate the dangers, a skit was performed where students were asked to spot red flags in a dialogue between a male coach and a female student. This captivating approach allowed the students to actively participate and reflect on their own perceptions of inappropriate behavior.

The response from students has been overwhelmingly positive. As they engage with the material, many express an enhanced awareness of social interactions and the potential risks associated with them. The impact of the program can be quantified, with the latest report from the Orange County Human Trafficking Task Force revealing that two out of five victims of sex trafficking are minors. Alarmingly, female minors make up 32% of all human trafficking victims in the area, while male minors account for 4%.

For the peer educators involved, including those who underwent 40 hours of rigorous training for the “Safe Communities, Safe Kids” program, it’s a rewarding experience. The second portion of the Westminster presentation shifted focus to healthy relationships and how to identify trusted adults. As a fun incentive, students were given Jolly Rancher candies for their engagement in the program.

After two weeks of impactful learning, students left the sessions with a newfound sense of caution in their daily interactions. One student indicated a determination to be more careful about whom she chooses to interact with. Additionally, a feedback mechanism was established using sticky notes, granting students the opportunity to anonymously ask questions or voice concerns regarding the sensitive topic.

The success of the program at Westminster High School signifies just the beginning of a broader conversation about human trafficking and awareness. The questions posed by students will be passed along to teachers for further discussion, ensuring that the dialogue continues and critical issues are addressed.

As the Vanguard Live2Free team drives forward, their relatable approach as college students allows them to connect with high schoolers on a personal level, making this education journey not only informative but often memorable. In a world that can sometimes feel overwhelming, initiatives like these remind us that awareness is the first step toward prevention.