WORTH Court Hosts Day of Survivorship to Combat Human Trafficking in Cumberland County NC

Cumberland County, NC – WORTH Court, a pioneering initiative aimed at assisting victims of human trafficking and reducing recidivism, is set to host “A Day of Survivorship: Human Trafficking, Survivors Tell Their Truths: Drug Addiction.” The event will take place on Friday, June 16, 2023, from 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM at the Cape Fear Botanical Garden in Fayetteville.

Human trafficking remains a pressing issue affecting numerous individuals worldwide, with North Carolina consistently ranking among the top 10 states with the highest reported number of human trafficking cases. In response to this alarming trend, Cumberland County established WORTH Court, the first-of-its-kind court in North Carolina specifically dedicated to handling cases involving individuals coerced into criminal activities due to human trafficking. Under the leadership of Chief District Court Judge Toni King, WORTH Court aims to provide victims with crucial services such as counseling, medical care, education, job skills, and assistance in reducing or dismissing charges against them.

Highlighting the event will be keynote speaker Rachel Thomas, a survivor of sex trafficking and former music video model. Through her organization, Sowers Education Group, Thomas advocates for raising awareness about sex trafficking and empowering survivors to reclaim their lives. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear Thomas share her personal story of abuse, escape, and ongoing efforts to combat sex trafficking. Her insights will prove invaluable in addressing this issue that profoundly impacts the lives of countless individuals.

The event will feature an array of speakers, including Kelly Taylor, a trauma-informed care specialist for trafficking survivors, and Johnny Leonard, a clinical mental health and substance abuse therapist. Angela Koskosky, an esteemed Substance Use Disorder expert, will also provide her expertise on the subject. The presentations will cover various aspects of survivorship, offering attendees a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by victims and the available support systems.

The community is encouraged to participate in this day of survivorship, where powerful stories and expert insights will shed light on the realities of human trafficking and its impact on survivors. By attending, community members can gain valuable knowledge on how to prevent and combat human trafficking, ultimately making a positive difference in Cumberland County.

The event is made possible through the generous support of WORTH Court, the Child Advocacy Center, Delta Sigma Theta, and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.® – Upsilon Kappa Omega Chapter.

For more information and event registration, please visit the official Eventbrite page at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/640871693487. Together, let us stand united against human trafficking, supporting survivors on their path to healing and empowerment.