Barb Bollinger - Path2Freedom

This episode brings to light a charity that does amazing work right here in our backyards for a "hidden crime"- Human Trafficking. Today, we talk with Barb Bollinger, Director of Development for Path2Freedom—a local non-profit, family-first organization that helps victims of human trafficking. Human Trafficking is a big, sophisticated, growing crime that is an assault against our most vulnerable in society – particularly children.  It does not discriminate as it can happen in any community, and victims can be any age, race, gender, or nationality.  It is often a hidden crime because victims rarely come forward, therefore, if you see something, please say something using the Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888. Those that are rescued or brave enough to come forward often experience a long recovery period due to the extensive trauma they have been through. Path2Freedom is here to deliver that long term recovery in a family first trauma informed safe environment. The need for these types of services is great and Path2Freedom has ambitious growth goals to expand providing the hope and healing necessary for long-term restoration of these precious lives. In this episode, we learn that Florida is the "worst state" per capita for human trafficking, a realization that hit hard in the recording studio. While this episode discusses a tough topic, we at SpelLife truly believe in the importance of awareness so we can contribute to making Southwest Florida a better community for everyone. Please listen and learn about the signs of human trafficking, what to do if you suspect human trafficking, and ways to get involved in helping and protecting those in our community who need it most.