Preventing, Rescuing, and Restoring Victims of Child Trafficking
Forever Found is a nonprofit organization created to help prevent, rescue, and restore the lives of young adults and children rescued from child trafficking. Kelly Thomas, a Realtor at LIV Sotheby’s International Realty in Ojai, spoke to us about the efforts that Forever Found has worked towards since they were founded in 2010 and also recently volunteered as one of the sponsors of their annual golf tournament.
Kelly is an active sponsor and volunteer for this organization while actively promoting their efforts within her community. We spoke with Realtor Kelly Thomas to learn more about her contributions to Forever Found and how we can get involved.
Why did you decide to participate as one of the sponsors of this event?
I decided to help sponsor this event because I love helping people, and I think it’s really important to be a voice for the voiceless. A lot of people think that child trafficking is happening overseas, but it’s happening right in our backyard, and there is not enough transparancy. It’s important that we get involved in organizations that are helping the millions of children affected by child trafficking throughout the world.
What did you enjoy most at the event?
Honestly, what I loved the most was to see how many people came out in support of this event. It was great to see husbands, dads, brothers, and young men help and educate more people about it.
How would you describe the responsibilities of sponsoring this event?
My responsiblities included volunteering as one of the sponsors for the event and helping to locate more people to help join us in sponsoring the event or donate however possible. I am grateful to have had the funds to support Forever Found, and hope that I am able to help make others more aware through my contributions.
Are you likely to participate in more events like this in the future?
Yes! I love that by participating in these events I am helping build so much awareness through my network in the real estate industry and in the community.
Is there anything else we should know about the event?
The event went great! There were 146 golfers and through combined efforts they were able to raise $45,000 from the event. In addition to the money raised there was so much engagement and people who came to support as well which always helps.
How is this event directly impacting the community?
Forever Found uses the funds raised to help educate people such as staff and volunteers, fund the rescue houses, train the staff and mentors, along with all the care that goes into taking care of those who are rescued.
What can others do to help support this charity now or in the future?
To begin with, you can volunteer, sponsor a rescue home, become a mentor, or make a donation.
What are the long-term goals of this charity?
To end human trafficking in addition to providing a safe place for those in need.
To find out more visit the website at foreverfound.org
Reach out to Kelly to find out how you can get more involved online at SothebysRealty.com or by contacting her directly at 805.284.8914.
Kelly Thomas
805.284.8914
kelly.thomas@sothebysrealty.com
California DRE # 02143421
