In the heart of the Ozarks, The Pathways Project Coalition is dedicated to ending human trafficking in Stone and Taney counties. With a commitment to building pathways from awareness to action, this growing nonprofit is creating a safer future for our community.
Area individuals, nonprofits and businesses have a fun and exciting opportunity to help build those paths as the new year kicks off. January is a great time for building teamwork with friends, and especially for a good cause! Pathways Project Coalition invites teams to join in observing Sex Trafficking Awareness Month in January by participating in Branson’s Amazing Race on Saturday, January 18, 2025.
Based on the popular reality show race concept, teams of four people will cross Branson by car and on foot in a Race to End Human Trafficking, using brains and brawn to figure out each successive clue to get to the next location.
At the monthly Pathways Project Coalition of the Ozarks meeting on Tuesday, December 17, Pathways founder and director Veloris Juneman shared that details are coming together for a fun and successful event, but there are still openings for teams, sponsorships and volunteers. The race will begin at the north end of Branson Landing at 9 a.m., and a watch party will also be held. Visit the Pathways Project Coalition page on Facebook and follow the link to the sign-up sheet to enter your team; who knows, you just might win, but we all win any time a victim is rescued or a teen makes a better decision thanks to educational programs in area schools. Can’t get a team together? Consider sponsoring a team from your church, favorite nonprofit, or perhaps a local law enforcement or first responder agency.
Human trafficking is a hidden crime that often goes unnoticed but affects countless lives. It’s not just a global issue—it’s a local one. By focusing on Education, Collaboration and Support, the Pathways Project Coalition of the Ozarks aims to shine a light on this dark issue and provide tangible solutions in several ways:
Education: Awareness is the first step
The Pathways Project provides workshops, seminars and resources that inform individuals and organizations about the signs of trafficking and how to respond effectively. Pathways Coalition is grateful to have received a Skaggs Foundation grant to help present educational resources in area schools.
Collaboration: Strength in unity
No one organization can tackle trafficking alone. The Pathways Project fosters partnerships among local law enforcement, social services, healthcare providers, businesses and community leaders for unified prevention, detection and recovery efforts.
Support: Helping survivors rebuild
For those affected by trafficking, the road to recovery can be long and challenging. Pathways partners help provide access to counseling, safe housing, and resources as individuals heal and regain their independence.
How you can get involved
Ending human trafficking requires a collective effort. Here’s how you can make a difference:
Educate yourself by attending a Pathways Project monthly meeting or a workshop or explore their online resources.
Spread the word by sharing with your friends and family, and speak to your child’s school or youth group leader about scheduling an educational presentation.
Volunteer your time and skills to help the Coalition’s efforts.
Support the Pathways Project mission with a financial contribution.
Together, we can build pathways from awareness to action and a community where everyone is free from exploitation. For more information or to get involved, visit https://www.facebook.com/pathwayspco or email pathwayspco@gmail.com.