Dear Friend,

For those of you still learning about the work at the Pathfinder Center, we are a long-term facility for human trafficking survivors. In case you weren’t aware, most treatment centers only offer a 30-day program, but we are in it for as long as it takes to get these women back on their feet. We offer the women the choice to stay. They are not forced. They must decide whether they will commit or not. We are a Native American-based center and many of our advocates and survivors are Native American. It is empowering for Native American women to be helping other Native American women.  As a Native American woman myself, this offers a unique approach and one we cherish. 

There have been times that I have had doubts. How would this work out? Where would the funds come from? How can we be unique? Just as God trusted me with this mission, these women entrust us with their lives. Let me share with you some updates.

Kicking off 2022
January was National Human Trafficking Awareness and Prevention Month, an important time to spread awareness and take ACTION. It was the perfect time to kick our awareness into high gear and gather people together to take action. We held a unique event, ‘Drive Out Human Trafficking,’ where the community could try out a golf simulator for a donation to the center. Not only did we have a chance to talk with those in the community about our work, but we were also able to raise funds for the center. And we had a little fun doing it! 

Fighting human trafficking is not only the job of law enforcement, it's the work of the entire community. Thank you to all of those that came out to use your voice to help us raise awareness, and thank you for supporting the women at the center. 
 

Stronger South Dakota Laws
Earlier this year, Governor Kristi Noem signed more legislation to better protect and help victims of human trafficking in South Dakota.

“People are not for sale in South Dakota,” said Noem. “For years, I’ve worked to build systems that protect our state from the horrors of human trafficking.”

One of the pieces of legislation that passed was Senate Bill 28. Sadly,  I-90 is known as the “Midwest Pipeline” and runs right through South Dakota. Because we know this, this piece of legislation will disqualify for life any person from driving a commercial vehicle which is convicted of a felony offense involving human trafficking. This legislation builds on Noem’s work in South Dakota that further strengthens prosecution against traffickers. Governor Noem has always been an outspoken advocate on legislation that protects people against human trafficking and champions a comprehensive anti-trafficking initiative. 

Be Your Own Champion Fundraiser
Summer is just around the corner and you’ll have so many chances to be out and about. If you are looking for a pop-up fundraiser think about putting together a fundraising run, or what about a cornhole fundraiser? There are so many ways you can make your own impact and help the women at the Pathfinder Center. If you are interested but need a little help with your planning, we are happy to help or provide printable resources. Advocacy is a large part of ending human trafficking. We want to provide you with the tools you will need to effectively make an impact within your community and host a successful event. 

Thank You!
Without YOU and the support you have given, whether that be donations, volunteering, or prayers, it continues to work! We are so proud of the women who have worked their way through the program and begun a new life filled with purpose. 

Although one thing we know to be true is that the outcome is powerful when we come alongside these survivors. That’s why we are asking you for your support. The success of the women at the Pathfinder Center happens because of YOU and YOUR support. Please consider donating. It only takes a minute to take action! Here are some ideas to get you thinking.
 

• Check out our website and subscribe to our emails.
• Get involved! There are many options when it comes to volunteering.
• Share our story on social media or with your friends.
• Donate. There are many more success stories you can help make happen. 

As the leader of this organization, I want to say THANK YOU! Every time I step foot into the Pathfinder Center, I say a prayer for you. None of this would be possible without your gracious heart towards helping the victims of human trafficking. God bless you and stay well.

Lisa Heth
Pathfinder Center, Executive Director