PRESS RELEASE
March 10, 2021

The aim of the USF branch is to educate students and Tampa residents on the realities of human trafficking in America.

TAMPA, FLA. – The Trafficking in America Task Force founded a new student-run chapter at the University of South Florida with the help of chapter president and USF senior, Gennell Ward.

Ward, along with pursuing her degree in Integrated Public Relations & Advertising, hopes to work in crisis management internationally.

“I started the chapter at USF because of my volunteer experience with the Trafficking in America Task Force. During my volunteer work, I was inspired to create the task force to help more survivors and raise awareness. I wanted to start new programs and find other people my age who were just as passionate as me,” says Ward.

Vice President Ariana Fernandez voices that joining the Task Force has been the highlight of her year, “Being able to be a part of a safe environment for all people of all backgrounds to come and share their experiences, hardships, and achievements while advocating for the end of trafficking in the United States is a privilege and I feel grateful to be a part of this Task Force.”

Fernandez, who is currently a senior studying International Studies and History, hopes to continue to advocate for the end of trafficking in the United States. “By creating a safe space for anyone who is having hardships, they will find us ready to assist them in any possible way.”

If you’re interested in learning more or joining the USF Chapter, please visit https://traffickinginamericataskforce.org/ .

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Trafficking in America Task Force is a 501c3 non-profit helping create a culture free of modern day slavery. This is accomplished through targeted prevention and training, direct and on-going recovery services, and multi-agency collaboration. For more information or to donate, visit www.traffickinginamericataskforce.org.

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