URBAN OUTREACH 

“You Took Me In” – A Story from a Volunteer

Every year, Source staff and volunteers host aninteractive art booth at the annual May Day Festival in South Minneapolis. We do this to make contact with dozens, if not hundreds, of people. We want to create an environment where people feel comfortable and have fun. At the festival, people interact while painting on the community murals, doing the kids crafts, or having their face painted
Read the story below about one interaction a volunteer had with someone from Source’s past.
At our May Day outreach, I volunteered to help with the face painting of children. After several face paintings, this one family came over to have their boys faces painted. While doing the second boy, I was able to talk to the mother as she came close to watch.

After telling her a little about Source, she stopped me and asked, “Don’t you do something else?” 

I told her, “We also have some transitional housing.

She said, “That’s it!, When you told me where it was located, I knew it! You took me in when I was younger and homeless! You were so good to me!” 

I commented that it looks like she has a wonderful family now. She gave me a big smile and nodded her head.

After I finished face painting I asked, “Can I give you a hug?” 

She said, “Yes,” and responded by giving me a great big hug and thanked me for being here again for her!

Community Room Update

Progress is being made on our Community Room remodeling project in the Fallout Urban Art Center. Electric work, plumbing, and installation of the appliances is currently happening. Thank you to everyone who has donated your time and finances to the remodel!

ANTI-TRAFFICKING

At our spring events, we were encouraged to connect with many people who want to be or are already
involved in anti-trafficking work.

Sex Trafficking in the Midwest Seminars

In April, we held two Sex Trafficking in the Midwest Seminars in the Twin Cities. Over 275 people attended to be educated about the realities of local sex trafficking. Apple Valley police officers, the Ramsey County Attorney, social service providers, and other professionals spoke.

Bacon & Blossoms: Source Anti-Trafficking Breakfast

We connected with current and potential volunteers, and supporters at our anti-trafficking breakfast. We were able to share about the growth that has taken place for the program, along with the hardships we have experienced.

One of the highlights was when Maria, Source Anti-Trafficking Director interviewed a graduate of our transitional home. She shared about pursuing an education, starting her own women’s group, and continuing to attend church. She also talked about how a foundation was built for her to continue to move forward.

The last question Maria asked was, “What is one lesson you have learned while living at the Annex Transitional Home?”

She responded, “That I am not the dirty, worthless person that I once believed I was. I have a clean slate from Jesus.”
We want to provide housing and support to the women, but we also want them to know the love of Jesus.

Run for Hope 5K

Our most recent event, the 2nd Annual Run for Hope 5K was a joyous morning. The event was a reflection of the name. Over 125 people walked and ran for hope. It was a celebration of what has happened with Source Anti-Trafficking in the last year and a time to remember that there is hope in anti-trafficking.

We were encouraged to see many families participate.

One girl celebrated her 10th birthday by running in the 5K. Her family raised over $1,000 for Source Anti-Trafficking.
Her dad said, “We are excited to discover more family-friendly options for getting involved in anti-trafficking.”