Sanibel Students Sign-Up for Human Trafficking ARTREACH Project

Sanibel-Captiva Islander Newspaper, July 22, 2011

Human Trafficking Awareness Partnerships, a 501©3 non-profit based on Sanibel is sponsoring a human trafficking ARTREACH program at BIG Arts for middle and high school girls, beginning August 22 through September 19.

American girls between the ages of 11-15 is the group most targeted by human traffickers. It is estimated that at least 30% of the girls entrapped by traffickers have no other risk factor other than their age.

As Rachel Lloyd, founder of GEMS, one of the premier organizations working with young girls today says in her book  Girls Like Us: “Children are vulnerable by virtue of being children. Getting frustrated with parents, thinking you are invincible, engaging in risky behavior, being interested in relationships…wanting to belong, confusing messages about love and sex, and a desire to be independent” all make even a well-adjusted teen vulnerable. The ARTREACH program aims to empower girls to not only make them safer, but to empower others as well.

Participants will learn about human trafficking on a global, national and local level and how to use art as a way to educate others. Nola Theiss, a nationally recognized educator on human trafficking and Gari Lewis, an art instructor and other volunteers will conduct the class. No specific art background is required though an interest in art and a desire to learn more about this issue is encouraged. This program is aimed at middle and high school girls. Enrollment is limited to 12 students.

ARTREACH programs have been held 6 times since 2010 in Lee County and 11 paintings are currently being displayed at the Phillips Gallery at BIG Arts through August. The classes will meet from 3 to 7 pm on four consecutive Monday evenings (excluding Labor Day), beginning August 22. There is no charge for the program, thanks to the generosity of BIG Arts, the Zonta Club of Sanibel-Captiva and local restaurants. Dinner and snacks will be provided and students will receive a certificate of community service.

For more information and how to apply, please go to: http://www.humantraffickingawareness.org/announcements-mainmenu-46.html or contact Nola Theiss at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or at 239-395-2635.