Beyond Trafficking and the Southwest Colorado Trafficking Task Force will host a “Not on Our Watch” Making Colorado Safe for Kids event from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday at Circle K Ranch, 27758 CO Hwy. 145.
The free, family-friendly event is intended to provide parents, teachers and community members knowledge and tools of how to fight human trafficking and child exploitation, as well as know warning signs, information from the organizations said.
Though the event is free, registration is required. A free lunch will be provided with registration, and space is limited.
Attendees can expect fun activities for children in addition to a cookout. Country music artist Caleb Sutton will provide live music, and speakers on anti-human trafficking will share their stories and experiences with fighting human trafficking and exploitation. At the end of the event, certificates of completion for all attendees will be given out. There will also be a silent auction.
“The statistics surrounding child exploitation are deeply concerning, but change begins with education, awareness and community action,” a press release said. “This event is designed to provide practical information, meaningful connection and a renewed commitment to standing together against exploitation.”
Speakers include survivor advocate Chelby Taylor and Stephanie Rocha, executive director and founder of Beyond Trafficking.
Taylor will share her story and provide insight into how communities can protect youth from human trafficking, and Rocha will speak on prevention and the “realities” of human trafficking.
Ginni Bradbury, who founded Shine Our Light and is a trauma-informed health and healing coach, will serve as emcee.
“Each of us has a role to play in protecting the most vulnerable members of our community – our children,” Rocha said. “The 'Not on Our Watch' event is more than just a gathering; it is a call to action. When parents, educators, leaders and community members become informed and united, we strengthen the safety net around our children.”
The event is presented with support from Circle K, V.4.C.R., Texas Trafficking Task Force and Shine Our Light. Registration is available online at bit.ly/4wLTWxr. For more information, contact Rocha at stephanie.rocha@beyondtrafficking.com or (325) 338-2166.
bduran@the-journal.com
