My memories of site visits come flooding back as I read Colleens email.
She’s in NYC on a girlfriends weekend and took advantage of her time there, to visit the charities YPI students granted to this past school year.
I often think of the wonderful people, ideas and organizations that taught me so much and helped shape a smarter and more aware “me”. Looking forward to our paths crossing again!
In Colleens words……….
Hey Jules-
September 22, 2011
What a trip so far. My plane was delayed into NYC but my Cab ride made up for it in time. When I started to smell the combo of burnt engine and melting brake pads the good catholic girl in me broke into a mantra of Hail Mary’s and Our Father’s. They worked. I made it to Restore NYC 15 minutes early and didn’t have to use the fire extingisher. Gawd , how I love New York!
With luggage in tow I was warmly greeted by Faith Huckel, Executive Director and Founder of Restore NYC, a Charity providing freedom and hope to survivors of sex trafficking. An organization dedicated to long term healing, housing and support to women who have been brave enough to escape a life of commercial sexual exploitation. Aprroximately 17,500 foreign nationals are trafficked into the United States each year. I’m shocked.
Faith tells me about how the the process works. “Snakeheads” are the mega pimps that have networks in countries of poverty and political strife. They promise girls the “American dream” …..a home, gainful employment, good health and safety. They leave out the other details like forced rapes, physical restraints, confinement and beatings. Awful stuff, I can’t even imagine.( yep, got the leaky eyes listening to some of the horrific details of the life of a modern day slave)Then there is this bright light that shines in Faiths eye’s ( her name is not lost in the irony of the profession) and she tells me about the healing. The active partnering between Restore and the 4 different law enforcement agencies are working to put a stop to active Brothels and the snakeheads.The first “safe house ” in NYC has been established along with long term support to deal with the mental and physical abuse.I really liked Faith and her passion and determination make a difference.
I’m off to visit some charities in the Bronx today. Its muggy and hot in the city and looks like rain (great another bad hair day!) I will write soon and let you know about all the great people I meet.
xo Colleeny
PS. On 3rd avenue, I saw an entire block of 24 hour drug stores. There must have been 5 in a row! Gota love this city.
Thanks for sharing Colleen. Continued safe travels!
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