Polaris Project Leads the Fight Against Human Trafficking

“Slavery still exists. Be a part of the movement to end it.” Such bold and challenging statements will greet you on the Polaris Project’s website. Although this grassroots organization is relatively new, having been established in 2002, it has been successful in creating comprehensive approach to combat human trafficking and modern-day slavery. In fact, the organization prides itself for donating 90% of their funding to programs. Their commitments have landed them a spot Marie Claire’s top 10 best charities.

The founders of the Polaris Project are Katherine Chon and Derek Ellerman, who were seniors at Brown University when they founded this organization. Their concern about human trafficking began when they discovered that this inhumane act was happening in their neighborhood. When the issue became personal, Chon and Ellerman founded Polaris Project to combat trafficking in America and abroad.

The organization applies what they learn from human trafficking survivors to create long-term solutions. They are striving for systematic change – and do so by lobbying for stronger federal and state laws. The Polaris Project also operates the National Human Trafficking Resource Center hotline 1.888.3737.888. Victims or concerned people located all over the world can call this number anytime to get immediate help and guidance.

Aside from operating this emergency hotline, the Polaris Project also conducts public outreach and communications; it also provides training and technical assistance to local, national and international audiences. In addition, another project involves running strategic campaigns that will appy pressure on criminal trafficking networks and their support structures.

The Polaris Project is noted for its ability to remain on top of human trafficking situations especially in the United States. In 2009, they shed light on how runaways use sex for survival – how young teens, placed in a situation of despair and ignorance, voluntarily traffic their bodies to survive. Reported by the New York Times, this story raised the awareness of parents and local communities, which led to immediate and ongoing action to save the runaways.