January 28, 2023 — Soroptimist International of Vista and North County Inland invited the public to their 17th Annual Human Trafficking Awareness Walk and Event on Saturday at United Methodist Church of Vista. There were information tables from several organizations involved in helping victims of sex trafficking, including North County Lifeline, Southern Indian Health Council, Grace House, One Safe Place and North County LGBTQ Resource Center. Kaye Van Nevel, organizer of the event, introduced dignitaries and representatives. Van Nevel then introduced the speaker, Susan Johnson, founder and CEO of Alabaster Jar Project, a nonprofit that aims to restore, rehabilitate, and empower women who are survivors of sex trafficking with long-term housing and tangible resources.
The walk commenced around 11 am, with participants walking about 1-1/2 miles round-trip from the church going South on Melrose to Sunset Dr., they crossed the street and returned North on Melrose back to the church. Mayor John Franklin and Councilmember Katie Melendez joined in on the walk. Water and Stop Trafficking signs were provided.
Van Nevel and her Soroptimist Club also coordinate the North County Anti-Human Trafficking Collaborative, open to the public which meets every other month at United Methodist Church, 490 S. Melrose Drive, Vista. http://www.soroptimistvista.org/
Soroptimist International of Vista and North County Inland was founded in March 1953 and is one of 42 clubs in the Desert Coast Region. DCR is one of 28 regions in Soroptimist International of the Americas, and SIA is one of five federations in Soroptimist International. Most of our members live in Vista, San Marcos, Escondido, Fallbrook and Bonsall.
A Soroptimist is a leader in her community. She believes that by joining with other women and engaging in awareness, advocacy and action in the service of her community and society, she can make the world a better place for humankind.
http://www.soroptimistvista.org/
