Summary

As part of National Human Trafficking Awareness Month, Allies Against Trafficking partnered with regional organizations to host a community training focused on the intersection of drug endangerment and family human trafficking.

In recognition of National Human Trafficking Awareness Month, Allies Against Trafficking collaborated with Southern Illinois University School of Medicine and McLean County Recovery-Oriented Systems of Care (ROSC) to host “Hidden Risks: Drug Endangered Children and Family Human Trafficking Training.” The event was held at the ISU Alumni Center in Normal, Illinois, and brought together professionals and community members for an evening of education and discussion.

The training featured presentations on critical and often overlooked aspects of trafficking. Kelly Schwamberger, Co-Founder and Chief Program and Strategy Officer of Allies Against Trafficking, presented on familial child sex trafficking, addressing dynamics, indicators, and long-term consequences. Liesl Wingert, Program Coordinator with the SIU School of Medicine’s Center for Rural Health and Social Service Development, explored the intersection of drug-endangered children and family sex trafficking.

Attendees also had the opportunity to participate in an optional breathwork session led by Amy Filter, Founder of The Little Light Breathwork, offering space for reflection during a heavy and complex topic.

The event concluded with a panel discussion featuring perspectives from law enforcement, mental health, education, and lived experience. Panelists included Master Sergeant Kyle Border of the Illinois State Police Trafficking Enforcement Group, Hallie Harmon of Agape Counseling, Amanda N., a survivor with lived experience, and Krista Wilcoxen, a social worker with Havana CUSD 126.

The training was free and open to the public and drew a diverse audience, including members of the Illinois State Police, therapists, caseworkers, and community members. Local support also contributed to the event, with Avanti’s Italian Restaurant in Normal generously providing food to support attendees and the overall gathering.

This event reflects Allies Against Trafficking’s commitment to bringing communities together through collaboration. By partnering with local organizations and engaging professionals and the public, the training increased awareness, improved coordinated response efforts, and advanced a more informed and responsive community equipped to support individuals at risk and survivors of trafficking.