Opportunity

A few weeks ago my friend Grady Smalling introduced me to Mark Elam, who is director of the OATH Coalition. The OATH Coalition is a non-profit that is in shining light on the evil of human trafficking. One of the many things that Mark does is to hold awareness seminars on this topic, because even though human trafficking is a huge worldwide business, most Oklahomans are unaware of the level of trafficking activity that goes on everyday in our communities right here. OATH (Oklahomans Against Trafficking of Humans) has received a grant to do CLEET continuing education meetings in every county in Oklahoma. I have been learning much about this topic with the intent of helping Mark to do these awareness seminars. What I learned today while at a CLEET training in Chickasha is that these meetings can be hosted by any organization; even churches. The local church just needs to provide a room and be willing for anyone in law enforcement to attend. Actually, anyone who is interested can attend these events. They last approximately from 8:30 - 5:00. It seems to me that this would be an awesome way for a local church to be involved in their community and to show to community leaders the church's commitment to affect the future of the helpless and victimized who are in our midst. If you are interested in hosting one of these training events or just in having a shorter awareness seminar, let me know and I will put you in contact with Mark. This issue is bigger than any of us know and it isn't going away. This is the time for the church to be the church.