Helping survivors of trafficking make a fresh start

Each year through Baker Tilly Wishes, the Baker Tilly Foundation provides grants of $10,000 to not-for-profits nominated by our team members. Learn about a powerful organization fighting to restore hope and freedom to survivors of human trafficking and exploitation.

Saving lives, restoring freedoms

Public Sector Advisory Consultant Ian Wilson and his fiancée, Brynn, volunteer weekly with Red Oak Hope, which aims to stop trafficking and exploitation of women and children around the globe through a comprehensive support network. They find purpose in improving the lives of others, both locally and globally.

“Witnessing how Red Oak Hope has transformed lives motivates me to contribute to their mission in any way I can,” Ian said.

Operating from Austin, Texas, Red Oak Hope transforms lives in the U.S., Asia, Uganda and India by empowering survivors with vocational training, counseling and temporary housing. Since 2012, they have served more than 500 people by providing over 6,000 hours of safe shelter and 8,000 hours of vocational training. Notably, Red Oak Hope also repatriates survivors of international trafficking. This program has successfully returned over 110 women and children to their home countries.

Maximizing the impact of stewardship

Red Oak Hope’s mission is built on the belief that, with the right resources, anyone can find hope and rebuild their lives. While attending the organization’s annual gala, Ian was deeply moved by the stories of transformation told by survivors.

“These women were once trafficked in Asia, and now they are thriving in their careers,” Ian said. “It’s incredible to see how their lives have changed.”

The $10,000 grant from The Baker Tilly Foundation will allow Red Oak Hope to expand its support services for those escaping exploitation, including providing safe shelter and meals for women and their children and repatriation services for victims of international trafficking.