Saving Kids - Operation Underground Railroad

The stark reality is that 49.6 million individuals are currently ensnared in modern slavery globally, with a heartbreaking 35% of them are innocent children.

Shockingly, the year 2022 alone witnessed the reporting of a staggering 88 million Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) files, while child sex trafficking was reported in every single one of the 50 U.S. states. This insidious industry generates a colossal $150 billion annually, perpetuating the cycle of exploitation and suffering.

By actively contributing to and participating in non-profit organizations like Operation Underground Railroad, we can play a pivotal role in the fight against human trafficking and sexual exploitation, ensuring a safer and brighter future for these vulnerable children.

Seeing the millions of childhoods stolen by trafficking, I refuse to remain passive. This darkness grows in silence, but united, we can shine as a beacon of hope. Where should I begin to make a difference? Will you join me in this advocacy too?

Donate Monthly to Operation Underground Railroad to Save Kids

One of the most impactful ways to contribute to Operation Underground Railroad's (OUR) mission is by becoming a monthly donor. The organization has made it simple to give, with a dedicated page on its website for easy monthly donations.

Joining OUR Allies means becoming a part of a committed group of donors who receive exclusive updates on OUR operations and survivor care, delivered directly to your inbox. You’ll gain an insider’s perspective on upcoming campaigns, events, and new store items, keeping you connected and informed about the progress and initiatives of OUR.

Additionally, donors receive milestone gifts and thank-you videos from the OUR team, showing appreciation for your vital support. By donating monthly, you help ensure sustained efforts to rescue and empower vulnerable children, making a lasting difference in the fight against human trafficking.

Where Do Donations Go?

Your donation to Operation Underground Railroad is a powerful tool in the fight against child sexual exploitation and human trafficking. Here's how your contribution makes a difference:

Equip Frontline Heroes - essential equipment, resources, and training for the brave men and women on the frontlines around the globe, empowering them to rescue victims and bring traffickers to justice.

Support Survivors' Healing Journeys- supports survivors by offering therapy, vocational training, medical care, and much more, helping them rebuild their lives and find hope for the future.

Fund ESD K9 Units - helps fund Electronic Storage Detection (ESD) K9s for law enforcement agencies worldwide, enhancing their ability to locate and recover critical evidence in the fight against trafficking.

More Ways to Give

• Mail a Check: You can mail your donation to:

OUR Rescue

PO Box 560902

Denver, CO 80256-0902

• Securities & Stocks: OUR accepts stocks, mutual funds, or create a charitable gift annuity to support OUR.
• Crypto: It also welcomes cryptocurrency donations.
• Employer Gift Match: Donors can just enter their employer’s name on the OUR webpage to see if its inc.uded in the list of companies who will match their employee’s donation to OUR. I

Start a Fundraiser for Operation Underground Railroad to Save Kids

Another way that I, you, or anyone else can do to support OUR is to launch a fundraiser. Whether it's a lemonade stand, a music festival, a golf tournament, or any other creative idea, your efforts can make a significant impact in the fight against human trafficking and child sexual exploitation.

The funds you raise will help protect countless individuals from these heinous crimes and contribute to their rescue and rehabilitation.

How It Works

• Set Up The Fundraiser: Choose a name for your fundraiser, set a fundraising goal, and share your reasons for supporting OUR Rescue. Your personal story and passion can inspire others to contribute.
• Start Raising Money: Spread the word about your fundraiser. Share it on your social media accounts, email it to family members, and text it to friends. The more people you reach, the greater your impact will be.
• Celebrate Your Impact: Be proud of your efforts! Every dollar you raise goes directly towards supporting the fight to end human trafficking and child sexual exploitation.

Additionally, donors can search for and contribute to existing campaigns through the OUR database, making it even easier to support this vital cause.

Buy a Merch From The Operation Underground Railroad Online Store

By purchasing merchandise from the OUR store, you not only get great products but also contribute directly to the fight against human trafficking and child sexual exploitation. 100% of the proceeds from purchases go towards OUR's causes and projects, making each item a powerful tool in the mission to save lives.

Collections Available in the OUR Store:

• Survivor Made: This special collection features items crafted by women who have been rescued from human trafficking. Your purchase directly impacts their lives, providing them with financial independence and a path to recovery.
• Collaborations: OUR collaborates with several esteemed brands to offer unique items, including:

Arnoldsen Leather Co.

Born Primitive

Fuel

Minky Couture

Crossfit O.O.R.

King's Camo

Thread Wallets

• Men, Women, and Children's Collections: Find clothing and accessories for everyone in your family. Each item sold supports OUR's ongoing efforts to protect and rehabilitate survivors.
• Accessories: From practical to stylish, the accessories available in the OUR store offer another way to show your support and spread awareness.

Here’s a LinkedIn post from TYR Sport, Inc. showcasing a collab with OUR

Volunteer and Participate In OUR Events

OUR volunteers form a global community of passionate individuals dedicated to ending child sexual exploitation and human trafficking. Mine and your involvement can make a significant difference in the lives of countless children and contribute to the fight against these heinous crimes.

Volunteer Opportunities

There are numerous ways to get involved, from participating in local events and fundraising efforts to spreading awareness in your community. Every volunteer action contributes to the larger goal of protecting and rescuing vulnerable children.

Some of the OUR Events are:

• Swing For Freedom Golf Tournament - June 21, 2024
• OUR Bingo - June 27, 2024
• OUR Rescue Awareness Run w/ Harford County PD in Pennsylvania - July 6, 2024
• World Day Against Trafficking in Persons - July 27, 2024
• Rise Up. Get Loud. - July 30, 2024
• Run to Stop Traffick 5K - September 24, 2024

Facebook Volunteer Group

Join our volunteer Facebook group to stay connected with the OUR team and fellow supporters. In this group, you'll receive special updates, share ideas, ask questions, and celebrate success stories. It's a space for collaboration and encouragement, bringing together like-minded individuals who are passionate about making a difference.

OUR Celebrity Supporters

According to looktothestars.org, celebrity supporters of OUR are Glenn Beck, Montel Williams, and Larry King

Some LinkedIn personalities who also support OUR causes:

Glen Henderson

Mona Vogele, CSP

How WE Can All Help To Save The Children And The Afflicted

According to the Office of the Administration for Children & Families:

• Learn about human trafficking and how it occurs in the United States.
• If you or someone you know is a victim of trafficking, contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline.
• Professionals can take advantage of training programs to recognize and address human trafficking.
• Share resources and information about human trafficking in your community.
• Offer support to those who may be vulnerable to trafficking.
• Volunteer with local anti-trafficking organizations or raise awareness in your community.
• Collaborate with schools, healthcare providers, and other institutions to create protective environments.
• Use your expertise to create protocols or provide services for trafficking victims.
• Be mindful of goods produced by child or forced labor.
• Stay updated on human trafficking news and resources through newsletters and social media.

Here’s an inspiring post from Veterans For Child Rescue

Perhaps less promoted, but definitely a must effort for saving children and trafficked persons from AMA Ed Hub.

Navigating Controversies and Staying Focused on the Mission to Help Those in Need

OUR has faced its share of controversies, with stories like that of Jimmy Rex highlighting potential issues within the organization. These controversies can sometimes discourage people from donating or contributing to the cause.

However, it's essential to learn from these experiences and stay focused on the primary goal: helping those who are truly in need.

Lessons from Controversies

Involvement with OUR has shown both the emotional highs and the complex challenges of combating human trafficking. Some key points include:

• Gratitude and Positive Impact: Jimmy Rex shared his deep gratitude for the positive impact on his life through his involvement with OUR, despite encountering significant risks and dangerous traffickers.

Questionable Incidents: Questions about the authenticity of some trafficking incidents and doubts about the success and methods of certain operations raise important concerns.

Internal Conflicts: Conflicts over credit, money, and the direction of the organization can distract from the essential work of rescuing and supporting survivors.

Another instance that highlighted people’s distrust on OUR by Kristin Vaughn

These controversies underscore the importance of:

• Transparency
• Accountability
• Focusing on the Mission's Core Values

Staying Focused on the Mission

To stay focused on helping those who are truly in need, we must learn from these controversies and strive for continuous improvement.

• Supporting Organizations Like OUR: While also advocating for transparency and ethical practices.
• Remaining Vigilant: Donors and volunteers should ask questions and seek updates on how their contributions are being used.
• Demanding Accountability: Ensuring that efforts genuinely make a difference in the fight against human trafficking and child sexual exploitation.

It is crucial to strike a delicate balance between acknowledging the remarkable achievements of OUR in combating human trafficking and respecting/considering the stories, opinions, and experiences of others.

Deciding whether to continue supporting OUR or seek another organization is a personal choice, but what matters most is the commitment to help. Despite negativity, there are other institutions dedicated to saving children and ending human trafficking, providing opportunities to contribute to the cause.

Engaging in philanthropy and giving back can lead to personal growth and fulfillment. By supporting organizations dedicated to noble causes like ending human trafficking, individuals can experience a sense of purpose and fulfillment that transcends material wealth.

This act of giving not only benefits those in need but also enriches the giver's life, leading to a more prosperous existence in both tangible and intangible ways.