Monthly Service Challenge

Each month, a new mission will be posted as motivation for us all to roll up our sleeves and serve our communities. Be sure to keep the Office of the First Lady in the loop by posting on social media using #TennesseeServes for a chance to be recognized as a Service Spotlight. Grab your friends, family, classmates or colleagues and join us as Tennessee Serves!

February

Tennessee Serves Supports Human Trafficking Victims

Human trafficking is not a distant or isolated issue. It is a terrible crime that is happening in our own backyard.

Throughout the month of February, Tennessee Serves is supporting efforts to end human trafficking and care for survivors. By taking a training course, becoming a volunteer with a local organization, or praying for survivors, there are many ways, big or small, that you can team up with Tennessee Serves this month. 

Service Opportunities

Suggested Service Opportunities

**Please note that First Lady Maria Lee and the TN Serves team will not be attending these projects in-person**

  • CCAHT Safe House Meal Train, Knoxville, anytime: Sign up to deliver a meal to survivors or provide meals with a gift card for takeout.
  • Rest Stop Ministries, Hermitage, anytime: Register to commit to being a part of one of these teams: transportation, hospitality, administration, events, prayer, grounds, and/or program.
  • A Way Out Ministries, Cordova, anytime: Start with the volunteer webinar to learn how individuals and groups can assist with A Way Out Ministries street outreach, residential program, after-care, and social enterprise efforts.  

**Due to the sensitive nature of survivor rescue and restoration, most human trafficking nonprofits require an application process for volunteers**
 

Human Trafficking Resources

TBI’s 2024 Human Trafficking Report
Tennessee Bureau of Investigation’s Human Trafficking Statistical Report offering key details and data on human trafficking in Tennessee throughout 2024

National Human Trafficking Hotline
To report a tip or get help: Call: 1-888-373-7888 TTY: 711 Text: 233733

Tennessee Human Trafficking Hotline
To report a tip or get help: Call: (855) 558-6484 or Text “BeFree” to 233733

What Is Human Trafficking?
Ancora TN’s resource offering a comprehensive explanation of human trafficking, how it affects Tennessee, and the risk factors of trafficking.

Tennessee Counter-Trafficking Alliance
Combined forces dedicated to identifying, protecting and supporting Tennessee human trafficking victims in the most effective and efficient way possible.

Someone Like Me: 
Ancora TN’s podcast created to amplify the voices of human trafficking survivors, shed light on this complex crime, and highlight how this organization continues to grow one of the most innovative and effective human trafficking restoration programs in the United States.
 

Everyday Ways to Serve

  • Learn the indicators of human trafficking and report  suspicious behavior 
  • Pack a survivor care bag with personal care and comfort items for rescue organizations like Freedom Aviation Network or Rescue 1 Global
  • Familiarize yourself with local and national anti-human trafficking organizations 
  • Ask for donations to a survivor-focused nonprofit in lieu of birthday gifts
  • Shop at anti-trafficking social enterprises like Thistle Farms, Fried Green Tomatoes,  or Thistle & Bee to support survivor recovery and skill-building
  • Spread awareness for the cause and support nonprofits on  social media
  • Donate gift cards or other items in need to a nonprofit like Ancora TN
  • Host a fundraiser or to raise contributions for an anti-human trafficking nonprofit