A spotlight is being cast on the issue of human trafficking this week in Wesley Chapel.
A symposium, co-hosted by Pasco-Hernando State College and the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office, is set for Jan. 12.
Two days later, a 5k and 1-mile walk/jog, followed by a concert, are scheduled for Jan. 14.
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The symposium will be held on Jan. 12, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., at PHSC’s Porter Campus at Wiregrass, 2727 Mansfield Blvd. The gathering will be in the Conference Center, building B, room 303.
The symposium will feature Cpl. Alan T. Wilkett, of the Sheriff’s Office and Edie Rhea, of Healing Root Ministry.
Wilkett will cover the criminal enforcement aspects of the issue, and Rhea will share her personal story of being trafficked.
Wilkett has served as a chief deputy, captain, commander, and director of public safety in a public service career that spans 22 years.
During his career, he has handled a wide array of positions and developed specialties in such areas as property crimes, major crimes, cold case, narcotics, child abuse and more.
Rhea works to help restore the lives of fellow survivors. She works in crisis intervention for children and women going through the aftermath of sexual abuse and human trafficking.
She is the founder of Healing Root Ministry, a nonprofit organization advocating for victims of human trafficking and sexual abuse.
Those attending the symposium will be able to obtain information from a number of agencies that provide services involving this issue.
The event is part of the state college’s ongoing Community Awareness Series, and is open to students, faculty, staff and the general public.
Human Trafficking Symposium
What: Pasco-Hernando State College and the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office are co-hosting a Human Trafficking Symposium in Wesley Chapel.
When: Jan. 12, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Where: Porter Campus at Wiregrass, 2727 Mansfield Blvd., in the Conference Center, Building B, room 303.
What: Light Up the Night Radiant 5k and 1-mile race
When: Jan. 14 at 4 p.m.
Where: The race, which aims to shine the light on the problem of human trafficking, will start at 4 p.m., at Pasco-Hernando State College’s Porter Campus at Wiregrass Ranch.
The race will be followed by a concert, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., at the Shops of Wiregrass and will feature Shalyah Fearing of NBC’s The Voice 2016.
The 5k and 1-mile jog/walk are family friendly. Dogs are welcome, too. Strollers also are welcome.
Published January 11, 2017
