Every organization working to combat human trafficking dreams of the day their services won't be needed. At Elijah Rising, we've spent 2024 moving closer to that vision through direct action, community support, and faith-based healing. Join hosts David and Micah as they share inspiring stories of transformation from their anti-trafficking work in Houston, including milestone achievements in survivor recovery, program expansion, and community impact. Learn how this frontline organization is planning an even bigger vision for 2025 to help more survivors find lasting freedom.

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In this episode, David and Dawn break down the recent P. Diddy trafficking allegations to explore a crucial but often misunderstood aspect of sex trafficking: coercion. Drawing from their extensive experience in anti-trafficking work, they discuss how traffickers use psychological manipulation, false promises of stardom, and drug-based coercion to exploit victims. Learn why many trafficking victims don't initially identify as such, and how cultural influences and power dynamics play a role in exploitation. This eye-opening conversation challenges common misconceptions about trafficking and provides valuable insights into recognizing the signs of coercion.

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Elijah Rising was founded as a prayer meeting. In this episode we share how prayer was foundational to us becoming who we are today, but also how it has helped us continue in the mission to combat human trafficking.

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After adopting a daughter from China, Tom Broyles' life took a transformative turn from practicing law to pursuing mission work driven by faith and purpose. Discover how his legal expertise and faith uniquely prepared him for this impactful mission, blending professional skills with a heartfelt commitment to service. Listen as Tom shares the emotional and logistical steps they took to establish a safe home for minors, emphasizing the challenges and victories along the way.

The psychological toll of working with trauma victims is a stark theme in this episode, as Tom delves into the concept of vicarious trauma and the importance of self-care. 

From the harrowing realities of sex trafficking in Houston to the cultural shifts encountered upon returning to the U.S., the resilience required for such mission-driven work is evident. 

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Why do so many foster care systems fall short in providing adequate support for vulnerable children and families?

Amber's firsthand experiences highlighted critical gaps within the foster care system, motivating her to establish the Riverside Project.

Riverside Project focuses on collaborative system change and the mobilization of churches and communities to fill gaps in the foster care system.

We also explore the complexities and potential of transitioning to a community-based foster care model. Amber emphasizes the benefits and challenges of fostering regional ownership and community collaboration.

Whether through volunteering, praying, or responding to local needs, everyone has something valuable to offer.

Learn more at https://riversideproject.org/ and don't forget to like, subscribe, and share.

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Teen trafficking is closer to home than you think, and it's happening in our schools. Join us as we unravel the shocking story of a Klein ISD teacher allegedly leading a network exploiting runaway teens for prostitution.  We break down the disturbing timeline revealing the tactics traffickers use to manipulate vulnerable youth. From street names to social media grooming, learn the red flags that can save lives.

Our discussion highlights the critical role of education and awareness in fighting human trafficking, urging schools and communities to stay vigilant. Tune in to understand how you can make a difference and protect at-risk youth.

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What is familial trafficking and how does Hands of Justice support survivors?

In this episode, Carrie Harney with Hands of Justice tells us her personal story of being trafficked as a child. It took Carrie many years to realize what she had experienced was exploitation, and it was not until she attended a Hands of Justice event as an adult and heard their presentation that she was able to identify herself as a survivor of trafficking.

Carrie now works as an Advocate for Hands of Justice and walks us through the many services they provide to survivors.

Carrie discusses:

• Her own personal vulnerabilities that led to a trafficking situation
• The importance of economic empowerment for survivors and what Hands of Justice does to help them achieve that
• Beautiful stories of redemption that Hands of Justice has experienced with the women they serve

Learn more at: https://www.handsofjustice.org/

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What if understanding the financial underpinnings of human trafficking could revolutionize the fight against it? Youngbee Dale is a researcher and anti-trafficking expert. We take a deep dive into the operational dynamics of global trafficking networks. 

In our discussion, we explore the persistent challenges law enforcement faces, especially within illicit massage parlors, where shutting down one location often breeds many more opening. We also cover these topics:

• How traffickers use coercion and tactics to evade detection
• A call for more sophisticated investigative methods 
• The crucial role of public vigilance and the church

Learn more about Youngbee's research online: https://www.dale-consulting.com/

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How is 3in1 Mechanical Ministries filling the gap of transportation for overcomers of trafficking?

In our work with women in Restorative Care, we have found that once they complete our program and have jobs and housing, we always still have the missing piece of transportation. In order to help our graduates be set up for success, they need a reliable way to get to and from work. Otherwise, they immediately find themselves in a vulnerable situation again.

That’s where 3in1 Mechanical ministries comes in. Ross Peters, their Founder and CEO, shares with us how his lifelong love of cars transformed into a nonprofit that gives away cars to people in need.

Ross also discusses:

• The lack of transportation-related nonprofits not just in Houston, but all of the United States
• The importance of providing reliable vehicles and follow-up care for clients
• The amazing ways God opened doors to create this new nonprofit and some of the success stories they’ve seen

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What does recovery and restoration look like after addiction and trafficking?

This is the third and final episode in this series with Jessica Gobble, Elijah Rising’s Recovery Specialist. In this episode, Jessica talks about the deep shame embedded in people who have experienced addiction and trafficking, as well as the hope and restoration available to them.

Jessica also explains:

• Recovery is not linear; relapse is often part of recovery
• There is so much shame deeply embedded in people who have experienced trafficking and addiction, but we want them to experience complete freedom from shame
• Full restoration comes from Jesus

“Addiction is cunning, baffling, and powerful. But there is One that holds all power.”
-Alcoholics Anonymous

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