The topic of human trafficking does not lend itself to be a topic of light dinner conversation. Oftentimes, people keep the topic at arms length, avoiding the reality of such a painful subject matter – and understandably so!
At Allies, we try to provide opportunities to introduce the issue of human trafficking in bite-sized ways while having fun, in hopes that those who desire to learn more and engage can do so, and those who want to support and just have a good time can also do so!
This year, during Human Trafficking Awareness Month, we launched a new kind of event – Bunco, Friends & Fundraising. Women from the community gathered to play (or learn to play!) Bunco, laugh, meet new people and eat a delicious breakfast – all while being introduced to Allies. We had a great time, but more importantly, we made some great connections and we already are seeing a ripple effect that gathering people around a cause can do!
- Several women expressed interest in becoming a mentor with Allies
- A handful of attendees inquired about volunteer opportunities, including board membership
- Over $5,000 was raised to support the work of Allies
- A number of people committed to hosting their own spin-off event – gathering their family and friends to play bunco, cornhole or euchre to introduce their community to Allies and raise support
THANK YOU!
We look forward to our second Bunco event coming up March 2 (details here), and can’t wait to see the ripple effect that comes from gathering a community to invest in the flourishing of survivors of trafficking and their families!