Philippines Trip - International Justice Mission
A rare opportunity has presented itself, and I'm going to step out in faith. As many of you know, I've always felt called to be an advocate to survivors of sexual violence (I've worked alongside RAINN.org for years). Well I've recently been trying to wrap my mind around the issue of sex trafficking abroad, and along the way, have been introduced to an amazing organization, International Justice Mission who works to rescue girls from brothels, frees families from
slavery; and holds traffickers and rapists accountable to their country's justice
systems.
As I've been able to dig in and learn more about what IJM does, their team has invited me to go on a trip with them to the Philippines to better understand the work they do. I'll be learning from their staff on the ground in their field office and have a chance to see the impact they're able to have on these people's lives.
The reason this is a step of faith is because this trip is happening at the end of October and the cost is beyond my means. I'm trusting that God will put people in the path of this cause who understand my heart for this issue, and see this as more then just a week-long trip, but instead as an investment in bigger things to come. This trip will cost around $4000 with flights, meals, in-country travel etc. I feel called to make this happen, and want to reach out to people in my life who also understand how just a small donation can get me closer to this exciting journey to be an ambassador for women and children who don't have a voice.
Thanks for reading. I'd love for you to check out IJM and all the work they do all over the globe. http://www.ijm.org
Love, and lots of it!
Andrea Kleid
One other thing worth noting:
This year, IJM President Gary Haugen was honored by the U.S. State Department for
his leadership in the fight against human trafficking. Secretary of
State Hillary Clinton presented Haugen and 9 other anti-trafficking
leaders the State Department Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Office's 2012 TIP Report Hero Award - the highest honor given by the State Department for achievements in combatting slavery.
