Tronie Foundation.

The reality is that human trafficking DOES happen here - not just in our country, but in our very OWN state!  To find out more about an organization that is making a difference in our state, country and the world check out the The Tronie Foundation.  The foundation mentors survivors of slavery, both to become leaders and to work together with global leaders in the movement to end human trafficking.

I found some information about the founders of the foundation on the website and figured I would share it here!

Trong and Rani Hong, themselves survivors of childhood atrocities, established the foundation out of compassion for exploited women and children, and the desire to encourage human trafficking survivors to harbor anticipation of hope and freedom. Through the love, guidance and mentorship of others, the Tronie Foundation's founders have been able to pursue the American Dream of freedom and independence. Yet, they've chosen to personally cultivate their tragic beginnings into compassion for others for the past decade. 

The Hongs are passionate advocates for exploited women and for children at risk. Through the Tronie Foundation, they have joined with volunteers to educate thousands of people in our communities about the horrors of human trafficking. Research has proven that Washington State is an international entry point for human traffickers. Studies have documented human trafficking victims in at least 18 counties in Washington State. Investigations such as these have compelled the Hongs to help craft precedent-setting legislation in Washington State to help criminalize human trafficking, to strengthen penalties against the traffickers, and to provide protections, such as restorative services and confidentiality, to survivors. The Hongs' efforts have helped make Washington State a national model in the abolition of human trafficking in the United States. “I have always said if we survivors come forth and tell our story, reveal the truth of what happened to us, it will help people understand the realities of human trafficking,” said Rani Hong. “We can’t stay silent. If we do, we stay in the dark and allow the traffickers to continue the destruction of innocent lives.”

From the Tronie Foundation is borne the "Homes of Freedom," an initiative that is working to open the Northwest's first recovery shelter for modern day slaves. Board members share the goal of rebuilding survivors' lives by offering them services such as a safe, long-term home, counseling, and job training. The ultimate goal is to survivors achieve independence. The Hongs join other supporters of the "Homes of Freedom" in envisioning this shelter as a template that will expand across the United States, offering freedom to human trafficking survivors who are suffering from exploitation.

This is a video about the founder, a former child slave, Rani Hong as seen on Oprah.