I first came to know of Allies while struggling to be the parent of a newborn in small group Bible study with our Founder and Executive Director, Jessica .My wife and I were immediately drawn to lean into learning more about the realities of trafficking happening in our own communities, which we were previously ignorant about. Having encountered and prayed for the work of Allies in that space, we knew that we needed to take incremental steps to further the work 

 of the organization. My next incremental step was to take a risk and ask my work to sponsor a team for the 2018 Kick 4 One event. This not only brought me into better connection with the people and work but provided incremental exposure to my network. My coworkers and I have formed at least one team at every in-person K4O since then.

My family has been involved in providing opportunities to encourage and celebrate the girls we serve through notes of encouragement and providing gifts for Christmas gatherings. Now that I’m a member of the board and president, there are many incremental opportunities that my wife supports me by doing our family life without me, coming to cheer on my Kick 4 One teams, and pulling in our network to attend Illuminate galas.

Allies has provided me the opportunity to grow in my professional skills beyond what I ever thought I could. When I was asked to consider taking a position on the board, I was very hesitant. I didn’t feel that I’d merited the position or had the necessary skills and wisdom. I am immeasurably thankful for the chance to learn so much about myself by working with so many skilled, wise, and talented individuals that help me bring my best and our best to serve Allies on the board. I attribute a significant part of my professional development over the last 3 years directly to the skills and introspection I’ve gained working with Allies.

When I consider why I continue to support Allies, even after being so involved for the past 3 years, I learn every month just how deeply the work Allies provides is both desperately needed and highly honed and skilled to address the needs of the girls and families/guardians we serve. I’m so proud that it’s easy to answer the question, “What are we uniquely skilled and prepared to do for our community?” And I want to ensure that we continue to support the skilled staff and generous volunteers that make Allies such an amazing organization and family.

– David King