How to Choose an Anti-trafficking Organization

As many anti-trafficking organizations are popping up all over the world, it's quite easy to lump them all together; however, not all should be equally weighted. Particular organizations focus on raising awareness on a local and national scale, others work on research and legislation, some focus on rescue of victims, others work on criminal justice for the victims, and some focus on rehabilitation of rescued victims. Most of these organizations are filled with passionate and well educated individuals working tirelessly for the cause that has been written upon their hearts; so if they all do great things, which should you support? First, be aware of the focus of the organization, does it match what you are most passionate about? Second, know where the organization allocates its funds; what percentage goes to staff, overhead costs, projects, networking, etc... Check out the financial transparancy of the organization, which is usually linked to the NGO's website. Third, do you want to invest locally or globally? Fourth, talk to someone from the organization. Ask questions, be informed! Your investment should be well researched, just like your stock options.
For years, I have been following the growing networks of anti-trafficking organizations. After participating in Seattle based events and collaborations on raising awareness for trafficking, I felt the need to exprience a more hands on experience by working in Southeast Asia. While working at The Garden of Hope in Northern Thailand, I began to tangibly recognize Southeast Asia was a hotspot for trafficking, largely because of the societial view that women are second class citizens and children are valued less then women. There is even an old Khmai (Cambodian) proverb that states, "Men are gold, women are cloth." With all of this in mind, I have now chosen to invest my next year volunteering at Chab Dai, a Cambodia based NGO.
In 2005, Chab Dai, which means “joining hands” in Khmer, began work in Cambodia. "Chab Dai aims to bring an end to trafficking and sexual exploitation through coalition building, community prevention, advocacy and research. In addition to our office in Cambodia, the vision of Chab Dai has been expanded into the USA and Canada," reads their vision statement. Chab Dai is well respected nationally and internationally, for their dedication to coalition building (uniting organizations by acknowledging set standards), researching issues and resourcing organizations with up to date information, advocating and initiating prevention measures for at risk populations, and establishing effective aftercare methods.
Over the next year, I would appreciate your support and prayers. While volunteering in Southeast Asia is exciting, it can also be emotionally draining at times. I am excited to see what this year will hold and am forever grateful for your partnership with me during this time.

If you would like to support my partnership with Chab Dai click here: http://www.chabdai.org/sanstad.html