United Way Connects Area Businesses to Sex Trafficking Prevention Education

    February 8th, 2023

    Media welcome to Atwood Companies Training: February 20

    MANKATO—Greater Mankato Area United Way is continuing to expand its sex trafficking prevention initiative, now connecting area businesses to educational opportunities and training.

    Recently United Way connected Consolidated Communications with training by Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota Safe Harbor program.

    Next, Atwood Management employees will take part in a training presentation on February 20 at 8:30 a.m. Media are welcome to attend.

    • What: Sex Trafficking Prevention Training with Atwood Companies
    • When: Monday, February 20 | 8:30–9 a.m.
    • Where: Atwood Building – 2nd Floor | 209 S. 2nd St., Suite 200, Mankato
    • Why: Service providers, trade technicians and other employees are essential to sex trafficking prevention efforts because many of these workers are uniquely positioned to be in people’s homes or in places that sex trafficking may occur. When they see things that may seem suspicious, they can make a report that could save somebody’s life.

    “We are looking forward to connecting more area businesses that are stepping forward to address this important topic,” said United Way Community Impact Director Elizabeth Harstad.

    Interested businesses can contact the United Way office at 507-345-4551.

    The business aspect is part of Greater Mankato Area United Way’s ongoing initiative to prevent sex trafficking in our region. Last fall, United Way partnered with LSS to feature Love146’s “Parent & Caregiver” training geared toward parents, caregivers, direct service providers and interested community members. The free event focused on warning signs, red flags, how to talk to youth and more.

    Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota’s Sex Trafficking Prevention program is one of the 55 programs funded by Greater Mankato Area United Way’s 2023 campaign.

    Who: Jane Vader, South Central MN Regional Navigator/Lutheran Social Service of MN Safe Harbor Program; Matthew Atwood; Atwood employees