Often times, awareness work like this can seem one-sided and individual, with one person behind a computer sending countless emails and networking without end. To know information is being passed along and people far outside of Portland caught wind of our event is motivating and incredible.

High School Students Band Together for Awareness and Action

The YES Walk to End Slavery was an immense success. We made over $1,000 from people’s generous donations and purchases. An estimated 150 people showed up, and many people on the street were genuinely interested in this collected yet passionate group of high schoolers marching through the streets of downtown Portland.

Our speaker, Sgt. Mike Geiger, gave an empowering speech outlining the issues of sex trafficking in Portland and how it relates to an average high schooler’s life. He emphasized the importance of self-worth, love and confidence while fighting tendencies of vulnerability and self-deprecation.

We were so blessed to receive all the support and compassion we did. One student heard about the Walk from her church in Boring, OR, which is extremely inspiring and hopeful. Often times, awareness work like this can seem one-sided and individual, with one person behind a computer sending countless emails and networking without end. To know information is being passed along and people far outside of Portland caught wind of our event is motivating and incredible.

Youth Ending Slavery would not be able to do this work without the love of the community, the resources from St. Mary’s Academy, and the network of anti-trafficking organizations in Portland. Thanks for making the 2014 Walk to End Slavery a success. We will see you next year!