|  | In this issue: Human Trafficking Prevention Month, Honoring MLK, Spring Save the Dates,
Thank You's, and Jobs at Shelter |
|  | The greatest deterrent to human trafficking is knowledge, and it can begin with YOU. |
| Some people are surprised, due to misinformation, to learn Shelter serves a growing number of children and youth who have been victims of human trafficking, but victims come from everywhere. By knowing the facts and sharing them with others, you may save a life. Human trafficking is a $150 billion business worldwide. Traffickers use force, fraud, or coercion to lure their victims and force them into labor or commercial sexual exploitation. While sex trafficking has received more publicity, it's believed there is more labor trafficking. Though exact figures are unknown, studies have indicated there are 403,000 victims in the U.S. on any given day. Victims: While anyone can be a victim, the most vulnerable are the most at risk: |
| - Children too young to understand
- Runaway or homeless youth
- Youths with low self-esteem
- Those with mental health concerns, substance abuse, or disabilities
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- Those from communities with more challenges
- Juveniles in the child welfare system
- Members of the LGBTQ+ Community
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| Implicit bias leads us to believe we know what pimps and victims look like, but they can look and act like anyone. According to the Polaris Project, 77% are U.S citizens. While 86% are female, boys, men, and non-binary genders are also victimized. Traffickers: There is no one-size-fits-all description of perpetrators. They may come from any ethnic, social, or economic background, looking like the average high school kid, a business executive, or a gang member. The vast majority aren't strangers, but people the victim already knows; parents or other family members, romantic partners, family friends, or anyone else the victim trusts. |
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| Learn More About Human Trafficking |
| |  | How will you honor Dr. King's memory? Service is a great way to create solutions to social problems. Start helping others by serving on MLK Day and then continue all year long! Volunteering unites Americans of all ages and backgrounds to build strong communities. Below are ways you can safely help Shelter today: - Add your name to Shelter's volunteer list or join our Volunteer Facebook Group to find out how you can share your time, talents, and treasures to help the kids that need it most.
- Donate any item directly from our Amazon Wishlist
- Make thank you cards for Shelter's essential workers who since March 2020 have continued to staff our emergency group homes and transitional living programs, met with foster families, and supported new parents. Send them to Shelter, Inc: 1616 N. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights, IL 60004
- Download and color tributes to Dr. King
- Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube and TikTok
- Tell us what you will be doing on January 17!
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|  | We rely on the generosity of individuals, organizations, and corporations to keep our doors open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. In the last month, Shelter received grants and contributions from the following partners who share our vision that all kids should grow up in safe and loving homes. George Eisenberg Foundation
Stevenson High School
Polk Brothers Foundation
Zurich Insurance
Village Treasure House
Bob's Discount Furniture
Anonymous Thank you to all of our volunteers and event participants in 2021 for supporting children and families all year long. We couldn't do what we do without you!
Follow us on Tik Tok and watch our 2021 Rewind! |
| |  | Thank you to the many donors who helped us reach our year-end fundraising goal! We are so grateful to those of you who supported us through annual contributions, monthly giving, and increased gifts this year. A warm welcome to the many new donors who joined the Shelter, Inc. family of supporters with a first-time gift. And heartfelt gratitude to our anonymous donor who provided $10,000 in matching funds.
When we work together, we can accomplish great things. |
| |  | |  | Are you a looking for meaningful work and a rewarding career?
Shelter is now hiring for multiple positions. Click here to learn about open positions. |
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| If you share our vision that all children grow up in safe and nurturing homes, please support us today. |
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| | |  | Shelter, Inc.
1616 N. Arlington Heights Rd. | Arlington Heights, Illinois 60004
847-255-8060 | shelter@shelter-inc.org |
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