Community Health Chat: Human Trafficking & Youth

In this presentation, we will dive into the reality of human trafficking as it pertains to youth in Ohio. We will discuss widely believed myths and provide definitions of trafficking and related terms. We will consider the relational elements involved in trafficking and will learn how traffickers target youth by exploiting unmet needs. We will conclude our time together by learning the proper response to trafficking as well as recommended resources. 

Iris DeLawrence is a Network Advocate & Case Manager for Gracehaven. She provides human trafficking awareness and prevention education in Ohio to youth in schools, community programs, and correctional facilities on topics such as grooming, consent, risk & protective factors, social media and dynamics of healthy and unhealthy relationships. Her outreach also extends to community members, parents, and professionals from diverse fields. Iris was first made aware of the reality of exploitation during her summer trips to Honduras growing up. Since then, she has been passionate about advocating for individuals who have been exploited.