January, 2022
Project Protect Newsletter
Greetings!

As a new year begins, our new monthly e-newsletter is here to help keep you informed about the issues impacting the people of Northeast Wisconsin. You'll discover new ways you can support the Family Services mission along with tools to Protect, Heal & Care for yourself, your family and friends, and the people we serve in our communities.

I hope this newsletter will help you feel even more connected to the work you are supporting and to the issues that matter most to YOU, my friend.

Thank you for all you do!
It's Human Trafficking Awareness Month
Trends to Know: Human Trafficking Awareness
What drives human trafficking in Northeast Wisconsin and how does it happen? Our resident expert and Sex Trafficking Advocate, Shelby Mitchell, is sharing two trends that are being noticed in Northeast Wisconsin by the Sexual Assault Center of Family Services, along with ways you can help prevent trafficking and support survivors. Read more
PROGRAM SPOTLIGHT
Sexual Assault Center
Advocates of the Sexual Assault Center of Family Services provide free, confidential support to survivors of sexual assault, abuse or exploitation and their loved ones. These services are available 24/7 in Brown, Door, Oconto and Marinette Counties. Learn More
SURVIVOR SUPPORT GROUPS
Registration now open
We're offering three support groups this winter and spring for survivors of sexual violence. All groups are free & confidential. Information about the groups can be found in the attached flyer. Learn More
GET INVOLVED
One of our volunteer advocates, Sarah, recently answered a hotline call in the middle of the night from a woman who was experiencing panic attacks and flashbacks. She asked Sarah to distract her, so Sarah began talking about her two dogs, Archer and Lily. Archer heard his name and went closer to his mom. He started panting and whining. The caller heard this and began talking to Archer. Sarah said she could hear the woman telling Archer that he was a good boy and Archer was loving every minute! Sarah went back on the phone after a few minutes and the woman seemed calm and much more relaxed – even happy! Thanks Archer for helping Mom with the call!

UPCOMING EVENTS
There are so many ways you can help support our efforts to raise awareness and prevent human trafficking!
ABUSIVE INTERNATIONAL MARRIAGES
Thursday, 1/6 at 10:30 AM
This virtual event will highlight Hmong history, culture and gender roles and how these factors can play a role in gender-based violence. Plus, tools for engaging survivors.
THE TRUE COST
Tuesday, 1/11 at 6 PM
Advocate Shelby Mitchell will participate in this panel discussion following a performance of “The True Cost,” featuring actors speaking words transcribed by real victims and service workers.
Join us by wearing blue for Human Trafficking Awareness Day on Tuesday, January 11. Take a photo of yourself or loop in your co-workers and be sure to tag @familyservicesnew using the hashtag #WEARBLUEDAY for the chance to be featured on our Facebook and Instagram pages!
ANNOUNCING: A NEW WAY TO GIVE
We’re thrilled to expand your giving options with our newly added ability to accept not just Bitcoin, but over 50 different types of cryptocurrency! Donating crypto is a non-taxable event, meaning you do not owe capital gains tax on the appreciated amount and you can deduct it on your taxes. To learn more or start giving, please visit our website. Learn more