Missionaries of the Sacred

There are several ways you can get involved in the fight against human trafficking in the United States. You've already taken the first step: learning more about the issue. Look below for more ideas.

Know the Signs

Human trafficking can happen almost anywhere. Know the signs. Some general indicators include:

If you work in certain fields, such as medicine, law enforcement or education, it is even more important that you know the signs that a person may be a victim of human trafficking. Check with your hospital, school, law enforcement agency or social services center to see if they have any policies or fact sheets regarding how to identify potential victims. To get started, check out the documents below and check out the campaign kits on the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services website. These kits include screening questions, tips for identifying victims as well as posters and PowerPoint presentations which are designed specifically for health care providers, social service organizations and law enforcement officers.

Report Suspected Instances of Trafficking

If you suspect that someone you know is a victim of human trafficking, or if you have any tips about human trafficking in your area, call the National Hotline at: 1-888-3737-888 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Learn About Programs in Your Area

Several non-profit organizations including Polaris Project and Shared Hope International run programs for survivors of human trafficking such as drop in centers and job and language training classes. Look for programs in your area and see if they need volunteers or donated items such as clothes, underwear and hygeine items. For instance, the Polaris Project reports that when they respond to emergency situations, victims of sex trafficking often do not have t-shirts, shoes or hygiene products.

Raise Awareness

Have your club or church group host an awareness night. You can show a documentary about human trafficking, watch a television special or sometimes even see a special screening of a  documentary in a nearby theater. Several major networks have hosted documentaries on modern day slavery. Check to see if any showings are scheduled in your area.

Not sure where to begin? Shared Hope International has "Host Your Own Event" packets to help you get started. The Not for Sale Campaign will help your student organization host a Not For Trade Show on your college campus. If you want to do a large event for your church, high school or university, check out the 2009 Backyard Abolitionist Tour (Not For Sale Campaign). Other non-profits also offer awareness packets, downloadable posters and other materials. Find one that best meets your needs or create your own.

Research the Companies You Buy From

Not only are people trafficked to and within the United States, but products made by victims of trafficking are also sold in the USA. Research the companies you buy from most to see if there have been any recent, credible allegations that they or their suppliers use slave labor.