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The Joy Smith Foundation is once again shining a light on human trafficking with their family-friendly annual event.
"Joy in Action is a wonderful, family-friendly event where it's an opportunity to elevate the profile and start conversations about human trafficking," says President and CEO of the Joy Smith Foundation, Janet Campbell. "We gather together where people can run, walk, or bike."
The event is open to everyone and has free registration. The kick off takes place on Aug. 9 at Bird's Hill Park.
"We have a number of really fun activities planned. We have a fire truck coming, a slurpee truck, and a free BBQ, as well as face painting for the kids. We have different lengths of courses. It's not a timed event. This is about coming together as a community."
Often during this fundraising event, survivors of human trafficking also show up with their support.
"Their reaction is that they're so appreciative that people are interested in the issue and that they're coming together to do this kind of activity. There are times when they've felt very alone and isolated, so for them it's very gratifying."
The Joy Smith Foundation is located in Winnipeg; however, it continues to help educate people across Canada about human trafficking and how to ensure people's loved ones don't get caught in this horrific crime. The foundation also helps survivors after they've been rescued.
"All of the services we provide, in schools and for survivors, we do at no cost. We're able do that thanks to the support of incredible donors. Joy in Action is a fun way for us to be able to do that."
Registration is free and open to all levels of mobility and ages.