When did you start working at Call to Freedom? And what is your personal and professional journey that led you here?

I joined Call to Freedom (CTF) in May 2023.

I have worked in anti-trafficking and gender-based violence initiatives since 2015. Prior to joining CTF, I served as a Grants and Development Senior Specialist at the National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV), where I managed $10.3 million in multi- and single-year federal cooperative agreements and corporate and foundation grants. In addition to my time at NNEDV, I have previously worked as a Grants Manager at the Massachusetts Office for Victim Assistance and as a fellow for the Massachusetts Governor’s Council to Address Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence.

In 2016, I worked at the U.S. House of Representatives for Congresswoman Kristi Noem (R-SD) and researched key pieces of human trafficking legislation before the 114th and 115th Congresses, including the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act. I have conducted research on aftercare for adult survivors of sex trafficking, and my work received the Association for Feminist Anthropology’s Sylvia Forman Prize and Harvard University’s Thomas T. Hoopes Prize.

I graduated cum laude from Harvard College with a bachelor’s degree in social studies.

What is your position at CTF & why is it important to the mission?

I serve as CTF’s Director of Grants Management, and in this role, I support CTF’s fundraising and development efforts. I identify grant opportunities to sustain CTF’s operations, ensuring grant programs operate efficiently and center the needs of survivors of human trafficking.

Why do you believe in the mission of Call to Freedom?

Human trafficking and sexual exploitation occur at alarming and growing rates—even in the state of South Dakota. When I learned about the extent and nature of the violence that was happening in the place I called home, I had a moment of perfect clarity where I knew I was called to do something about it. I’m honored to give my time and talents to CTF, where our mission is to bring wholeness to all individuals impacted by sex and labor trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation. I believe that every human being has the right to be treated with dignity and to live a life free from violence. At CTF, I have the opportunity every day to build a world I believe in.

What is a moment that sticks out to you from your time working here or why do you feel like it’s meaningful?

Shortly after joining the CTF team, I had the privilege of working on a federal grant application aimed at enhancing housing services for human trafficking victims. As part of this process, I learned that in 2022, CTF saw a 37% increase in clients served from 2021 and a 152% increase from 2020. The urgent and widespread need for CTF’s services continues to drive me in my role to seek grant and funding opportunities to ensure that all survivors have access to CTF’s lifesaving services and supports.

What is a fun fact about yourself?

I have traveled to seven countries and hope to cross many more off the list.