2023 Impact Report - From Darkness to Life

“ From Darkness to Life”

“He brought them out of darkness, the utter darkness, and broke away their chains.”

Psalm 107:14

TABLE OF CONTENTS

LETTER FROM OUR FOUNDERS & CEO+PRESIDENT

ZOE INTERNATIONAL MISSION & VISION

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

WHERE WE SERVE

REACHING EVERY PERSON WITH THE GOSPEL

PREVENTION

STRATEGIC

FINANCIALS

ENGAGING

DONOR ENGAGEMENT

PARTNERS & SUPPORTERS

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

GET INVOLVED

Letter from our... Founders & CEO + President

With heartfelt gratitude, we are pleased to share our 2023 Impact Report with you, reflecting on the significant impact your contributions have had. Your generosity is the bedrock of ZOE’s mission, enabling our global teams to reach into the darkest corners of the world and bring hope and life to those who need it most. Over the past year, we’ve experienced unprecedented growth in our outreach programs, a testament to your unwavering support. It is because of you that we can bring children and families from darkness to life.

As we reflect on John 10:10, we are reminded that while the thief comes to steal, kill, and destroy, Jesus came so that we may have life — and have it to the fullest. This Scripture embodies our mission: ZOE means life. Together, we are fighting to bring the Gospel to the unreached and restore life to the most vulnerable, bringing them out of the darkness of trafficking and exploitation and into the light of hope, protection, and opportunity.

From all of us at ZOE International, thank you for being a vital part of our faithful community. Your compassion, dedication, and belief in our mission inspire us daily.

Until every person is reached and every child is rescued,

Michael and Carol Hart Founders and CEO + President

The ZOE Japan team works on creating a video for the G.O.D. Project—an initiative that harnesses the power of the internet and social media to expand our reach and fulfill our mission to reach every person and rescue every child.

ZOE INTERNATIONAL MISSION & VISION

Since 2002, ZOE International has remained unwavering in our mission to Reach Every Person with the Gospel and Rescue Every Child from human trafficking.

In December 2023, Cholula’s central plaza in Puebla, Mexico came alive for the Happy Birthday Jesus Festival, where 3,500 gathered for a day of music, worship, and inspiration. Hundreds encountered Jesus for the first time, leaving with renewed hope and faith.

OUR MISSION

REACH EVERY PERSON

RESCUE EVERY CHILD

OUR VISION

That every person we reach and every child we rescue would experience God’s LIFE as described in John 17:3: “Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.”

Through these seven key programs, ZOE has made significant strides over the last 22 years in spreading the Good News, training followers of Jesus Christ, ending child trafficking, and restoring survivors and at-risk orphans. Our work is grounded in the teachings of Matthew 28:18-20 and James 1:27, guiding us in our divine calling.

We remain committed to these seven pillars, constantly seeking innovative ways to increase our impact and bring hope to those in need. With your support and God’s guidance, we will move forward with unwavering determination to fulfill our vision and transform lives around the world.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

REACHING EVERY PERSON WITH THE GOSPEL

In a world where information is at our fingertips and communication spans the globe, it is startling to realize that billions of people have yet to hear the life-changing message of Jesus Christ. These unreached people groups (UPGs) live in regions where the gospel has not been preached, and where there are no viable Christian communities to share the hope and love of Christ.

The Scope of the Problem:

Vast Numbers:

Over 3 billion individuals and approximately 7,000 unreached people groups.*

*Taken from the Joshua Project.

Geographical Barriers:

Many UPGs are in remote, difficult-to-access areas.

Cultural and Linguistic Hurdles:

Diverse languages, customs, and belief systems challenge traditional missionary efforts.

Hostile Environments:

Some regions meet gospel sharing with hostility, persecution, and violence.

ZOE’S SOLUTION

REACH EVERY PERSON: Bring the Good News. Train followers of Jesus Christ.

RAISE UP national leaders to influence the nations.

DECLARE the gospel with people everywhere.

BUILD the church and TRAIN up disciples.

INSPIRE the church to engage in world missions.

RESCUING EVERY CHILD FROM HUMAN TRAFFICKING

Human trafficking is one of the most heinous and pervasive crimes in the world today, exploiting millions of people, particularly children, for forced labor and sexual exploitation. This modern-day slavery strips individuals of their dignity, freedom, and future. Despite global efforts, human trafficking continues to thrive in the shadows, affecting the most vulnerable in our societies.

Global Crisis:

Human trafficking affects nearly every country, with an estimated 49.6 million victims, globally including forced marriages.

ZOE’s Solution

Children at Risk:

One in four victims of human trafficking are children, often lured by false promises or forced into exploitation by dire circumstances.

Complex Networks:

Traffickers operate through sophisticated and covert networks, making it challenging to identify and dismantle these operations.

ZOE’S SOLUTION

RESCUE EVERY CHILD: End child trafficking. Restore survivors and at-risk orphans.

PREVENTION

PREVENT children from human trafficking and exploitation.

RESCUE

RESCUE child victims of human trafficking and exploitation.

RESTORATION

RESTORE child survivors of human trafficking and exploitation.

WHERE WE SERVE WHERE WE SERVE GLOBAL IMPACT:

UNITED STATES:

The Problem: In the United States, child trafficking has been reported in all 50 states.

Our Current Work in the USA: Prevention Rescue Restoration Evangelism Missions

MEXICO:

The Problem: Mexico is considered a source, destination, and transit country for child trafficking, whereby victims are sent from, to, and through Mexico for the purposes of labor and sex trafficking.

Our Current Work in Mexico: Prevention Evangelism

LOS ANGELES

PENNSYLVANIA

OAXACA

SERVE

JAPAN:

The Problem:

Japan’s population is estimated to be less than 1% Christian. ZOE is determined to share the gospel with everyone we meet. Many Japanese are open to Christ when they learn about God’s love. There are sophisticated and organized commercial sexual exploitation networks that target vulnerable Japanese women and girls through many means including abduction, force, and coercion.

Our Current Work in Japan:

THAILAND:

The Problem: Significant illegal migration to Thailand creates opportunities for human traffickers to exploit vulnerable individuals. Undocumented migrants are often coerced or defrauded into situations of involuntary servitude or sexual exploitation. Thailand is recognized as a significant destination for sex trafficking, despite making significant efforts to combat this issue, as indicated by its Tier 2 ranking on the Trafficking In Persons (TIP) Report.

Our Current Work in Thailand:

AUSTRALIA:

The Problem: Traffickers in Australia primarily exploit women and men in forced labor, and to a lesser extent, women and girls in sex trafficking. Traffickers exploit a small number of children, primarily teenage Australian and foreign girls, in sex trafficking within the country.

Our Current Work in Australia:

MELBOURNE

CHIANG MAI

TOKYO

REACHING EVERY PERSON WITH THE GOSPEL

GOSPEL

“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.”

1 Peter 2:9

Thailand

Gospel

INTERNATIONAL IMPACT

people heard the gospel

Mercy Network

families impacted families fed through Mercy Network Food Paks

Leadership Education

subjects taught

hours spent mentoring hours spent teaching children/youth outreaches received Christ 1,417 1,679 3,029 88 22,600 50

12

hours taught students studying at school graduates (6th, 9th, and 12th)

ZOE Leadership Training Graduates

436 4,519

churches/pastor partners graduated since 2017

173 323 166 1,700 11 4,412 11,050 144 9 5

extracurricular activities

NextGen Ministry

graduated went to serve in other ministries full-time

Mexico Japan

people impacted through gospel outreach effortsevangelism, missions, and leadership

viewed THEGOODNEWS.JP partners participated in Prayer Walks in the red-light district of Tokyo, Japan

3,289 people in Thailand heard the gospel through outreaches in 2023.

GOSPEL OUTREACH REGIONAL IMPACT

Chiang Mai, Thailand

ZOE Thailand partnered with 50 churches/pastors

Focus Areas: Chiang Mai slums, Hot, Mae Hong Son, Mae Sariang, Mae Chaam, Mae Sot, and Lampang

Mercy Network Food Paks delivered to pastors 3x per year

2,100 10,500

Mercy Network Food Paks delivered

families impacted by Mercy Network Food Paks and the gospel shared

“A church member was delivering a food pack to a family in their village when she noticed an elderly man bedridden in the home, able to see through the window. As he looked outside, he saw the woman and her child arrive on a motorbike to deliver the food pack. When they entered, the old man asked about a third person he had seen with them. Confused, they explained that only the two of them had come. The man then described the third person he had seen, revealing he was describing Jesus. Inspired by this revelation, the church member shared the gospel with the family, and in that moment, everyone in the household accepted Jesus.”

The Children’s Hunger Fund (CHF) Mercy Network equips local churches to serve vulnerable communities by providing Food Paks—boxes of non-perishable food items—for direct delivery to families in need.

This approach addresses immediate physical needs while fostering meaningful relationships and sharing spiritual hope. ZOE International and CHF have partnered since 2008 to bring relief and transformation to vulnerable communities through this Christ-centered mission.

Isaan, Thailand

33

ZOE Thailand partnered with 33 churches/pastors

Focus Areas: Kalasin, Ubon, and Udon

Mercy Network Food Paks delivered to pastors 3x per year

4,500

Mercy Network Food Paks delivered

900

families impacted by the CHF Mercy Network Food Paks and the gospel shared

“One of the churches in Isaan delivered food packs to a family with two teenage boys and their grandmother, who felt very lonely. Each day, the boys left early for school and returned late in the evening, leaving their grandmother alone outside her home. With poor eyesight and limited mobility, she spent her days sitting alone.

Moved by her situation, church members decided to visit her regularly. Different members stopped by each day to spend time with her. Around Christmas 2023, the grandmother accepted Christ and began attending church. Since she has difficulty seeing, the church provided her with an audio Bible, which she listens to daily. Now, she is praying for her grandsons to accept Jesus as well.”

“The church supports my family by praying for us and we are thankful for the food and supplies. We have more faith, are being encouraged, and have hope in God.”

Family Who Received a Mercy Network Food Pak

Chiang Mai and Isaan, Thailand combined 83

ZOE Thailand partnered with 83 churches/pastors

15,000

3,000

families impacted by the Mercy Network Food Paks and the gospel shared Mercy Network Food Paks delivered

“One of the Chiang Mai slum pastors had been ministering to a group in the slums. The area they were living in was condemned and they were pushed out. The group moved out to a village outside of the city. The pastor made the decision that this group still needed the gospel, so he rented a home out in the same village and moved his family out there to plant a church for this group. His church in the city is really healthy and his assistant pastor took on the lead there. He was willing to give up his comfortable life to live among the poor for the sake of the gospel.”

ZOE LEADERSHIP TRAINING SCHOOL

“When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.’”

John 8:12

Raising Fearless Leaders: How ZOE Thailand Transforms Lives Through Faith, Leadership, and Business

In 2023, ZOE Thailand continued its commitment to developing future leaders through ZOE’s Leadership Training School (ZLT), guided by the principle from 2 Timothy 2:2 (ESV): “...and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrusted to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also.”

Situated on our 33-acre campus, this program annually recruits adults aged 18 and above who are eager to acquire leadership skills and make a meaningful impact on their generation.

The comprehensive curriculum offers training in leadership, ministry, business, technology, language skills, evangelism, and child trafficking prevention. This multifaceted approach prepares participants to excel in both their personal and professional lives while instilling strong biblical values.

“ZOE’s two-year business school program, integrated with our Bible school, equips students with essential life and business skills that prepare them to thrive as employees and entrepreneurs,’ shared Les Ginoza, Vice President of ZOE International. “Each afternoon, students participate in classes focused on practical topics like goal setting, time management, budgeting, problem-solving, customer service, and more. These skills are taught with a biblical foundation, instilling in students the understanding that God desires them to be productive, excellent, and a blessing to others.

To bring these lessons to life, we use engaging methods such as playing Monopoly to teach the concepts of renting versus buying a home, negotiation, and cash flow management. We also conduct live presentations

to help students overcome the fear of public speaking, show ‘true life’ movies based on real events to facilitate discussions on learned lessons, and organize field trips to successful businesses like Starbucks to observe firsthand how customer service and organized systems contribute to success.”

The training extends beyond business principles to enhance other areas of students’ lives, particularly in evangelism. By fostering boldness and courage as core values, students become more confident in sharing their faith, performing dramas, and giving testimonies. The emphasis on servant hood helps them develop great customer service skills, realizing the truth of the biblical teaching, “He that is greatest among you, let him be servant of all.” This concept moves from being just a saying to a lived reality as they serve others.

Les added, “Our program also includes major outreach efforts to challenging areas. One such outreach took place at the border of Myanmar and Thailand, where the students ministered to over a thousand children from refugee schools amidst the sounds of machine guns and cannon fire. The students’ boldness, compassion, and servant hood left a profound impact

on everyone involved, showcasing them as fearless servants of the Most High.”

In 2023, ZOE celebrated the graduation of nine students and five interns. “We were particularly moved by the testimonies shared during the graduation ceremony,” said Les. “Several male students spoke about their past struggles with drug addiction and how, through their time at ZOE, they found the strength to break free and remain free for over two years. These transformations are a testament to the power of God’s work through our program, providing hope and a future for these young leaders.”

Since 2017, there have been 144 graduates from ZLT. Through ZOE’s leadership and business training, the Thailand staff is actively preparing the next generation of leaders who will influence not only their communities but also the broader region.

By integrating biblical principles into both spiritual and practical education, we are empowering these students to make lasting impacts in their personal lives, ministries, and careers.

Learn more about ZOE’s Leadership Training School by scanning the QR code below.

SCAN ME

In April, ZOE celebrated the 16th ZOE Leadership Training graduating class.

ZOE OUTREACH IN CHIANG RAI:

48 New Believers Discovered as Students and Staff Share the Gospel with the Lahu Tribe

“For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light.”

Ephesians 5:8

On October 9, 2023, a team of 34 ZLT students and three staff members embarked on an outreach mission to MaePoonLang, a village in the Wiang Sub District of Chiang Rai Province. This remote village, two hours from ZOE, is home to the Lahu tribe, consisting of both Red Lahu and Black Lahu communities. Out of the 200 households, only 40 are Christian, primarily from the Black Lahu, while the Red Lahu largely practice ancestral worship.

Upon arrival, the team was divided into two groups. One group visited homes, offering encouragement and prayer, while the other group led activities, shared the gospel with children, and prayed for them at the compassion center. The outreach resulted in:

• The gospel was shared with 61 adults, 9 of whom accepted Christ.

• Prayer offered to 40 adults.

• The gospel was shared with 44 children, 39 of whom accepted Christ.

• Prayer offered to 19 children.

We give thanks for the souls saved and pray they will grow in faith and deepen their relationship with God. One ZOE Leadership student, Tiger, shared a remarkable testimony from this outreach:

“Thank God for the opportunity to go on this outreach. I had prayed to see a miracle, for His name to be glorified, and for people to witness how great our God is—that what is impossible for man is possible for God. While visiting homes, I met a believer with children who were struggling with drug addiction. I shared my testimony of how I was freed from drugs through the prayers of my parents and encouraged him to keep praying and trusting in God. As I spoke, he broke into tears, and I could see that he gained new strength from the encouragement.

In the same house, I noticed an elderly man who had trouble hearing clearly. I asked if I could pray for him and called my friends to join me. As we prayed, I laid my hands on his ears and felt the power of God flow through me—my hands were shaking. When we finished, without us saying a word, the grandfather exclaimed, ‘Very good! Now I can hear clearly!’ Praise the Lord! This was my first time experiencing something like this during an outreach, and I thank God for answering my prayer. May God bless you all.”

This outreach was not only a time of sharing the gospel, but also a testimony to the power of prayer and God’s ability to work through ordinary people. We are grateful for the miracles and for the lives touched during this mission.

FROM SORROW TO JOY:

ZLT STUDENTS IGNITE HOPE IN MAE HONG SON

GOTO TRAGOONPIEMSOOK

ZOE Leadership Training School Team Member

On October 11, 2023, our ZLT students embarked on a full day of outreach across two villages in Pa Pong Subdistrict, Sop Moei District, Mae Hong Son Province.

“When we reached Huai Moo Nuea village, two ZLT students and I visited a believer’s house. When we went up to the house I noticed that the eyes of the people in this house were full of sorrow,” said Goto. “There was a grandfather lying on the bed. The grandmother who is the wife told us that Grandpa had an accident 10 years ago and was no longer able to walk. It was very difficult for them to go through something like this. Moreover, their daughter, who was married and had a little child, was abandoned by her husband. They felt hopeless. We listened and encouraged them by God’s words about living in this world. That Jesus Himself said that we would face many tribulations in this world. But take heart, because He had conquered the world. And we told them, we do not have money or gold. But what we have is the name of Jesus, and with God all things are possible.

Afterwards we asked to pray for the grandfather. We prayed for him three times and the third time we encouraged him to lean up to sit. Sitting up is very difficult for him. So we helped him up while we continued to pray for him. He finally sat up. He sat for more than half an hour and he did not want to go back to lay down on bed. During that time I continued to encourage everyone in the house, and the two students who went with me prayed. Then the Holy Spirit moved in that house. The grandfather started laughing, the students started laughing. And soon the whole family burst out laughing with joy. We felt the atmosphere and the laughter of joy.

From the very beginning, this house was steeped in sorrow and hopelessness. But when the Spirit of God moves, healing begins, and joy fills the home. It may be the first time they’ve laughed with genuine joy in ten years—truly a moment to glorify God.

We later learned that another group of ZLT students visited the family after us, intending to offer encouragement. However, as we spoke and listened to them, we found ourselves uplifted by their resilience. This revelation deepened our gratitude to God for the remarkable transformation taking place in this family.

We hold on to the belief that one day, he will be able to walk again, and this will serve as a powerful testimony, drawing the people of his community back to God. Amen!”

That evening, the church overflowed with people, many sitting or standing outside to witness the performances. We are grateful that our ZLT students delivered two dramas, dances, and special songs, showcasing their dedication and reliance on God, which resonated deeply with the villagers.

After the activities, we invited anyone in need of prayer to come forward, and we were astonished by the number of people who responded. As we began to pray, the Holy Spirit moved powerfully among us. Many felt God’s love and presence; some cried, others received healing, and several testified of long-term ailments lifted that night, including chronic sickness and depression. The pastor shared, “This has never happened in this village before.” We thank God for the revival taking place among our brothers and sisters.

The next morning, a man shared that after experiencing nightmares every night, he had finally slept peacefully without them following the prayer. A woman who had been unable to work due to illness testified that she was able to get up and go to work for the first time in a year. Another individual regained complete sight after prayer. Praise God for these miracle.

• Preached to 59 adults, and 10 of them received Christ

• Prayed for 120 adults

• Encouraged 33 believers(Adults)

• Preached to 26 children, and 21 of them received Christ

• Prayed for 21 children

ZLT ALUMNI REUNION

A Celebration of God’s Provision and Faithfulness

On March 3-5, ZLT held its 2023 Alumni Reunion at Eden Garden in Doi Saket, Chiang Mai, with 150200 alumni gathering for the event. It was a joyful time of reconnecting, with everyone sharing stories of God’s goodness in their lives. The reunion featured inspiring messages from Ajan Daow of House of Praise International Church, Ajan Scott, who taught Bible school at ZLT, and encouragement from the Pastors.

One of the highlights was hearing testimonies from ZLT alumni who are now serving in the mission field. Many shared about the challenges they faced, from financial struggles while raising families to doubts about their calling. Some even faced pressure from family members urging them to quit. Yet, through every story, one theme was constant: God’s provision. Alumni spoke of how God provided money, food, colleagues, and everything they needed—until even their families began to recognize His provision. This strengthened their confidence in His calling, reminding us all of God’s faithfulness.

As one ZLT alumni said, “Even when challenges arise, as long as we continue to obey God’s calling, we see His supernatural provision.” This reunion was a powerful reminder that no matter where we are, God is with us, preparing a table for us in the presence of our challenges.

The alumni also had the opportunity to tour the ZOE Thailand campus and witness firsthand the transformation and growth that God has brought to the organization. The weekend ended with a special meal together, making it a heartwarming and memorable time of fellowship and celebration. Praise God!

REUNION

“This reunion was a powerful reminder that no matter where we are, God is with us, preparing a table for us in the presence of our challenges,” shared a ZLT alumni.

TESTIMONIES FROM YOUTH ZOE SERVED:

“I was born into a Christian family, but I did not know God. I hated going to church and often ran away from home to stay with friends. I was disobedient and caused my parents so much regret that they would cry. But one day, I attended a youth camp, and God opened my eyes and heart to His love. This experience helped me understand God’s love through my family. After the camp, I repented and learned to empathize with my family and others. Shortly after, I was baptized and accepted Jesus as my Savior. Since then, I have never been disappointed or sad. Knowing Jesus has brought me joy and helped me discover who I truly am. Thank God for giving me a new life!”

FAITH, FAMILY, AND FRIENDSHIP:

A JOURNEY OF HEALING

“I didn’t want to study before coming to ZOE. I wasn’t attentive in class and preferred hanging out with friends. After two years of traveling, I wouldn’t have returned to school without ZOE’s help. At first, I had to adjust to living here and didn’t see the importance of studying. However, with support from my parents and sisters, I decided to finish my coursework.

I faced many challenges due to health issues from an accident, which required frequent leg surgeries and kept me in the hospital. I prayed for healing, and I am grateful to God that I can walk again and attend school. Although ZOE is not my real family, I’ve experienced God’s love here. The caregivers have supported me like family, and their encouragement has been invaluable. I feel overwhelmed by the love I receive.

Now that I am focused on my studies, my grades are improving, and I have set goals for myself, including graduating in education.”

A TEEN GIRL FINDS HER PASSION AT ZOE

TO BUILD A FUTURE

When a 17-year-old girl came to ZOE Thailand, she discovered her passion for gel nails while exploring various vocational subjects. After returning to her family, she pursued her dream and continued learning about gel nails. Today, she proudly owns her own gel nail salon in Chiang Mai and also sells second-hand clothes online.

During a visit from our staff to congratulate her, she expressed her desire to start a new life through honest work, inspired by the professional skills she gained at ZOE.

Despite facing many challenges, she has successfully achieved her goals and takes pride in her ccomplishments. Her family shares in her pride, and we celebrate her success with gratitude to God.

“For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.”

Colossians 1:13-14

SHORT-TERM MISSIONS

ZOE SHORT-TERM MISSIONS TEAMS TO THAILAND

August 2023

Joint USA Team of 20

12 USA Churches Represented Team of 15

7 USA Churches Represented

2 ZOE Mexico Team Members

November 2023

In November, we welcomed a team from the U.S. that included two ZOE Mexico staff. In their 10 days in Thailand, they were part of a large outreach to the border, ministered to our ZOE family, taught English lessons, packed 1,000 goodie bags and had some special time with our missionary families.

ZOE’S SHORT-TERM MISSIONS PROGRAM:

A Transformative Experience

Supporting Full-Time Missionaries

Missionaries serving in challenging environments far from home often face significant hurdles, from limited resources to isolation. Our program is designed to provide much-needed encouragement and support to these dedicated individuals. By joining our missions efforts, participants can offer practical assistance and emotional support, helping missionaries continue their vital work with renewed energy and resources.

Utilizing Gifts and Talents for Kingdom Purposes

Every participant in our short-term missions program brings unique gifts and talents. Whether it’s through teaching, medical care, construction, or simply offering kindness, these skills are harnessed to serve the needs of the community and advance God’s work. This experience not only benefits those we serve but also helps participants grow in their faith and understanding of God’s global mission.

Serving Orphans and Child Survivors

A significant component of our program involves meeting and serving orphans and child survivors of human trafficking. These children are in desperate need of love and care, and our participants play a crucial role in providing both. The personal connections made and the support offered to these vulnerable children embody God’s love in a deeply impactful way.

A Transformative Journey

ZOE’s short-term missions program is more than just a trip; it is a transformative experience that impacts both the participants and the communities they serve. It’s an opportunity to step outside of familiar surroundings, engage with diverse cultures, and contribute to a cause that is both meaningful and life-changing.

Through these missions, ZOE continues to expand its reach, fulfill the Great Commission, and provide invaluable support to both missionaries and those in need. The program is a testament to the power of stepping out in faith and making a difference in the world.

“This trip was the most exciting and inspiring experience. I feel my relationship with God has grown through these people and the light they shine on everyone they encounter. I feel honored to live on an earth with ZOE in it.”

Short-Term Team Member

A Journey of Unexpected Blessings:

Bill and Tammy Berg-Hillinger Reflect on Their Transformative Mission Trip with ZOE International

“We have been supporters of ZOE International for many years and we’re blessed to go on a short-term mission trip to Thailand in November of 2023. What we experienced was so much more than we ever expected.

We trust that all things work out for good for those who love God and who are called to His purpose and the ZOE International team is a great example to this calling. And we are proud to say, we are witnesses to this. They are raising-up amazing disciples. The greatest aspects of our mission trip was interacting with the ZOE families and the outreach program. Their energy and excitement to our presence was so heartwarming.

One of our favorite memories was at the outreach. A young Burmese student was playing his guitar (in his classroom) and singing praise songs in English! And to our great pleasure and surprise our ZOE helper, Jeremy, joined him! The boldness and freedom in Christ was astonishing and a wonderful blessing to experience. When Christ gave us a new commandment to love one another, ZOE is living it. And we are proud to partner with them as one family in Christ!”

Bill and Tammy Berg-Hillinger attended a short-term missions trip to ZOE Thailand in November 2023.

59,399 people reached in Mexico through human trafficking prevention efforts in 2023.

FELIZ CUMPLEAÑOS JESUS FESTIVALS:

A Decade of Unity and Hope in Oaxaca, Mexico

In 2023, ZOE Mexico’s Oaxaca team continued their decade-long tradition with the “Feliz Cumpleaños Jesus” (Happy Birthday Jesus) festival, a vibrant celebration of unity and the gospel in downtown Oaxaca. This annual event, dedicated to collaborative evangelism and cultural inclusivity, aimed to reach over 2 million people across the Oaxaca region with the message of Jesus. Representatives from 27 indigenous languages attended, highlighting the festival’s cultural diversity. Approximately 20,000 individuals participated, finding hope and love through Christ. With the active involvement of over 100 churches and pastors, the event demonstrated a united Christian front. The gospel was creatively shared through diverse arts, making it engaging and impactful. Building on previous years’ successes, where thousands accepted Jesus, the festival remained a beacon of hope and transformation, uniting the Christian community in Oaxaca and beyond.

A JOYFUL CELEBRATION:

The Happy Birthday Jesus Festival in Puebla, Mexico

In December 2023, Cholula, Puebla, was transformed for the Happy Birthday Jesus Festival, drawing 3,500 attendees to the central plaza. The event was a vibrant celebration of faith, featuring music, worship, and inspirational messages.

Hundreds of people encountered Jesus for the first time, experiencing a powerful day of evangelism and spiritual renewal. As the festival concluded, many left with renewed hope and faith, inspired by the joy and unity of the celebration. The festival stood as a testament to the impact of community outreach and the message of Jesus.

UNITED PUBLIC WORSHIP:

A Day of Faith and Unity

On August 19, 2023, 800 people gathered for the United Public Worship event, a celebration of community and faith. ZOE’s role in organizing the event, including handling logistics and securing permits, ensured a smooth and impactful experience.

As the crowd worshiped together, the atmosphere was charged with unity and inspiration. The event left attendees uplifted and connected, marking a powerful moment of collective faith and celebration.

A JOURNEY OF FAITH:

Carlos’ Encounter With The Gospel At A ZOE Mexico Event Before His Passing

Our ZOE Mexico team encountered a heartwarming story that unfolded at the Feliz Cumpleaños Jesús (Happy Birthday Jesus) festival in Cholula Puebla, Mexico. Carlos, around 60-years-old, attended the event and heard the profound message of salvation, which deeply resonated with him.

Two weeks later, one of the festival organizers received a call of gratitude, audio recordings, and a photograph of Carlos in the hospital from his son.

Carlos’s son, shared the news that his father had passed away. He had checked his cell phone and found videos of the Happy Birthday Jesus Festival and an audio message for one of his close relatives that said:

“Look, I am listening to some prayers at a festival that I was invited to yesterday. I was angry, but it is the Lord Jesus Christ who is

calling me, and now I know that the Lord Jesus Christ is the King of Kings.”

Carlos had found solace and embraced Jesus Christ as his Savior before his death. His family expressed immense gratitude, knowing that Carlos had heard the Word of God days before he died, and recognized Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior.

A ZOE Mexico staff member shared, “This message encouraged us to continue reaching people for Jesus, because that man heard and received the love of Jesus at the Christmas festival.”

This powerful testimony inspired the team to continue their mission of spreading the love of Jesus. One exclaimed, “Let’s empty hell of the souls that still need to hear from Christ until the end of the world.”

Carlos’ encounter at the festival serves as a reminder of the transformative power of your prayers, and the importance of sharing the gospel worldwide!

“Look, I am listening to some prayers at a festival that I was invited to yesterday. I was angry, but it is the Lord Jesus Christ who is calling me, and now I know that the Lord Jesus Christ is the King of Kings.”

A DIVINE ENCOUNTER: How Faith and Prayer Led

to a Life-Changing Moment in Oaxaca, Mexico

For over a year, a devoted prayer team of about 12 people from various churches in Oaxaca, Mexico, has gathered every Sunday at 6:00 a.m. in the Zócalo, the city’s main square. For an hour and a half each week, we lift up prayers for our city, its churches, broken families, vulnerable children, and our government, fervently asking that Jesus be known throughout our city, our country, and the world.

On Sunday, October 22, our routine prayer meeting took on a profound significance. As usual, we prayed for freedom and deliverance, acknowledging that while we may not have the power to rescue those trapped in trafficking ourselves, Jesus does. We prayed for His power to reach them, to hear their cries, and to bring them freedom.

Following our time of prayer, we engaged in worship, which often draws people to us. This particular morning, a couple approached—he, with a tough demeanor, wearing a hat and dark glasses; she, in a very short skirt. Despite their outward appearance, they were drawn to our presence.

We offered to pray for them, and the man’s response was immediate and emotional. He broke down in tears, and a

Pastor from our team laid hands on him. Overwhelmed by the moment, he fell to the ground, continuing to weep. After a while, he rose, somewhat embarrassed, and took a seat on a nearby bench while we continued to pray for the woman.

After the prayer, the man approached Pastor Fernando and the ZOE Mexico team. He shared his deep sense of exhaustion from the life he was leading. He revealed that he had been taking the woman to a hotel for a client because he was her trafficker. Upon hearing our prayers and feeling the presence of God so strongly, he knew they needed to come closer to us.

Pastor Fernando invited him to his church, where the man accepted Christ and committed to leaving his old life behind.

This powerful encounter serves as a testament to the omnipresence of God, as expressed in Proverbs 15:3: “The eyes of the Lord are everywhere, watching the evil and the good.” It is a vivid reminder that no matter how dire the situation, God’s presence and transformative power are always at work.

TRANSFORMING LIVES THROUGH FAITH AND EDUCATION:

A Groundbreaking Initiative

For the first time, the ZOE Mexico team received authorization to openly share the message of God within a public school setting. ZOE staff had the privilege of conducting workshops on child sexual abuse prevention and Bible lessons, reaching over 70 boys, girls, and adolescents. This initiative was not just about education; it was about imparting hope and transforming lives.

Each week, the ZOE team taught children how to protect themselves, assert boundaries, and seek help. Through dynamic activities, engaging songs, and heartfelt discipleship lessons, the team introduced them to the love of Jesus. Many of these children, who had previously experienced neglect or pain, began to heal as they felt the warmth and acceptance of Christ’s love.

One particularly touching transformation was that of a young girl who, on the first day, expressed her dream of becoming the “queen of the south,” inspired by a poster. By the end of the course, her aspirations had shifted. She wanted to stay connected with ZOE, having experienced firsthand how Jesus’ love reshaped her life and redirected her dreams.

Throughout our team’s time at the school, we brought more than just lessons. Our team provided essential services and gifts—dentists offered care, stylists gave makeovers, and we treated the children to candy, pizza, piñatas, clothes, toys, and more. At the end of the course, each child received a certificate and a new illustrated book, a lifelong tool to help them navigate their journey.

“The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.” Isaiah 9:2

In 2023, ZOE Japan journeyed through Tokyo and Yokohama, gathering insights from over 50 non-Christians and 100+ Christians to guide our media team in creating content that resonates with Japan’s unique spiritual landscape.

How ZOE Japan’s Groundbreaking Research is Shaping Effective Evangelism

In 2023, ZOE Japan embarked on a transformative mission through Tokyo and Yokohama, aiming to truly understand the voices and heartbeats of the Japanese people. By interviewing over 50 non-Christians and analyzing online survey data from more than 100 Christians, we created a comprehensive report designed to guide our media team in crafting content that resonates deeply with Japan’s spiritual landscape.

“Our research uncovered profound insights, revealing how many people first encountered Christianity through kindergartens, schools, or home-stay experiences abroad,” shared Annerie Van Wyk, ZOE Japan Director. “Many respondents were drawn to Jesus through the kindness and love of Christian friends and missionaries, while others embraced Christianity after invitations during personal struggles.

This invaluable report not only guided our media strategies but also became a vital resource for churches and missionaries across Japan and beyond, offered in both Japanese and English. The findings underscore the impact of compassionate outreach and the power of personal connections in fostering faith.”

TRANSFORMING LIVES THROUGH ENGLISH:

Your Support Helped 16 Children Embrace Faith in 2023 with J.O.Y. Club!

J.O.Y. Club, an English teaching ministry of Evergreen Chapel supported by ZOE International, uses English classes as a gateway to introduce children to Jesus and open their hearts to Him. Through weekly Bible lessons and outreach events, children and their families have multiple opportunities to receive Christ as their Lord and Savior. In 2023 alone, four children made the decision to accept Christ during their English classes! This is huge in a country where the population is less than 1% Christian.

A notable outreach event occurred in November during the Shichi-Go-San festival, a traditional Japanese celebration where children aged 3, 5, and 7 are dressed in beautiful traditional clothing and taken to Shinto shrines for blessings. While the festival’s intention is to wish for good health and a prosperous future, it was an opportunity for us to offer families a Christian alternative. We welcomed 10 non-Christian families (13 children) to receive a blessing in Jesus’ Name. Many of these families had their first encounter with Christianity, beginning what could be their journey of faith. The event concluded with a joyful snack party, fostering fellowship, and connection.

Another highlight of the year was the J.O.Y. Club Christmas party, where students and their parents experienced the Gospel through song, dance, and games. In 2023, a short-term missions team from New Hope Leeward Church and The Father’s House joined forces with J.O.Y. Club to serve 48 children and parents, leading 12 guests to accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior.

We are deeply grateful for the numerous opportunities to share the Gospel with our community and for the incredible support from our partners. Thank you for helping us in this vital mission to reach and impact lives with the message of Jesus!

ZOE Japan’s Prayer Walks Illuminate Tokyo’s Red-Light District

In 2023, a dedicated group of prayer warriors gathered monthly in one of Tokyo’s most challenging areas—the largest red-light district in Japan, Kabuki-cho. Their meetings took place in a karaoke bar, just minutes from the world’s busiest train station and surrounded by the constant movement of families, businesspeople, students, and tourists. Despite the vibrancy of life around them, this area is plagued by darkness and sexual exploitation. Yet, within this environment, light and hope emerged through prayer.

For one hour each session, participants sang praises, prayed, and declared scriptures, guided by the Holy Spirit. The gatherings brought together a diverse group of believers—Japanese housewives, grandmothers, teachers, corporate workers, missionaries, and Bible college students—all united by a deep conviction to combat the spiritual battles behind the visible oppression.

Following their worship in the karaoke bar, the group ventured into the streets for prayer walks. These walks focused particularly on “hot-spots” of exploitation, including a park in the heart of the red-light district where young girls and women are frequently approached by potential customers. The prayer walks served as vital acts of intercession, seeking God’s protection, freedom, and justice for those being trafficked.

Over the course of the year, ZOE Japan led 16 prayer walks, with an average of 11 participants each time. These walks typically occurred in the late afternoon and evening, a period when the red-light district becomes especially active. Despite the emotional and spiritual toll—especially for first-time participants—each walk was covered by God’s protection and power. ZOE Japan is deeply grateful for the support and prayers of their global community, which provides the necessary spiritual covering for these impactful events.

Equally inspiring has been the unity among believers from diverse backgrounds. Japanese Christians and international missionaries from various churches and organizations came together, setting aside differences in nationality, background, and experience. United in their worship and mission, they work collectively to bring the light of Christ to one of Japan’s darkest places, striving to set captives free and illuminate the path to hope.

INTERNATIONAL IMPACT PREVENTION

17,000+

educated about human trafficking in person and online

294,317,752

million reached through radio, press, internet (Youtube, Facebook, Instagram, X, Linkedin, Website Visitors)

59,399

people reached through human trafficking prevention efforts

1,800+

10,288,003 1,855 JAPAN

event participants reached through internet (YouTube, Facebook, instagram, X, Website visitors) social media engagements podcast downloads

The ZOE Thailand Prevention conducts on-site outreaches to educate children and youth about the dangers of human trafficking. Utilizing the interactive learning platform Kahoot!, students participated in pre- and post-tests to assess their awareness of human trafficking. Following the program, the children measured a 63% increase in their understanding, highlighting the program’s effectiveness.

THAILAND

45

11,185 48,869

AUSTRALIA

1,307 2,397

56,438

human trafficking prevention outreaches

individuals reached through human trafficking awareness outreaches

people reached online through education and awareness efforts

students reached through human trafficking education sessions

adults reached through human trafficking awareness sessions

people reached online and in-person through education and awareness efforts

GLOBAL RESCUE WALKS

In May, ZOE USA held its annual Rescue Walk virtually, uniting the community to raise awareness about human trafficking and support life-saving programs.

USA

ZOE USA Rescue Walk Goes Virtual, Unites Thousands and Raises Over $78,000 to Combat Human Trafficking

Thousands of participants from around the globe joined in, walking over 4,045.50 miles, with 2,100+ walkers and 53 teams coming together to raise more than $78,000 for the cause!

Raising awareness is a crucial first step in the fight against child trafficking.

AUSTRALIA

Revive Church Leads Inspiring Justice Walk, Raising Over $29,000 for ZOE Australia’s Fight Against Child Trafficking

On Saturday, June 3, 2023, ZOE Australia hosted a powerful Justice Walk, focused on “doing justice,” shining a light in the darkness, and combating child trafficking and exploitation. Organized by Revive Church, the event mobilized 70 members of their community to raise funds in support of ZOE’s work both in Australia and abroad. Although the ambitious goal was $30,000, the collective efforts of 285 participants raised over $29,000—an impressive achievement. A heartfelt thank you to Revive Church for making this event a tremendous success!

JAPAN

Thanks to Your Support: ZOE Japan’s Rescue Walk in Tokyo Engages Over 100 Families and Raises Awareness on Child Trafficking

In October 2023, ZOE Japan hosted a child trafficking awareness event in Tokyo as part of the ZOE Rescue Walk. Held at Tsuruma Park—a picturesque green space next to a popular shopping mall frequented by families—the event was a resounding success.

The highlight was the debut of ZOE-chan, the new mascot for the Japan team, who drew over 100 children and their parents to the ZOE booth. There, they enjoyed engaging games, exciting prizes, and, most importantly, valuable education about child sexual exploitation and trafficking.

Through interactive storytelling, ZOE educated children on safe body touch and encouraged them to confide in their parents or trusted adults if they experience exploitation. Our staff also interacted with many parents, providing essential free resources on child safety.

The Rescue Walk proved to be a fantastic way to connect with our community and has become a new model for effective outreach to young families.

RACE ACROSS AMERICA

Epic 3,000-Mile Race Finish is Second Place to Main Goal: Ending Child Trafficking

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” - 2

Timothy 4:7

Team ZOE International entered the Race Across America bicycle race on June 17 with thousands of training miles behind them. They expected grueling days, weather challenges, and money to be raised toward the goal of rescuing children from human trafficking.

But it’s impossible to prepare for the emotions that churn with every pump of the pedals.

“I’d describe it as a mountaintop experience – definitely next-level emotionally,” said first-time ZOE cyclist Kevin Quinter, who is a detective in Wyomissing, Pennsylvania and works on an anti-trafficking task force in eastern Pennsylvania.

The emotions came in waves as the team rode to a second-place finish in Annapolis, Maryland. On the third day of the seven-day relay ride from Oceanside, California, to Annapolis, rider Jeff Conaway from Littleton, Colorado, crashed on a descent through a remote area of the Rocky Mountains near Trinidad, Colorado.

“When we came around the corner, I thought for sure there’s a 50% chance he was not alive,” said Quinter, who was in the trail van with two other riders.

Conaway broke his collarbone, scapula, and had head injuries, and has since fully recovered. But the race had to continue for the other seven riders. Quinter jumped on his bike while Conaway, was still unstable and the ambulance had not reached them.

Coming off their Rocky Mountain low, the team’s emotions ran high. Each rider had to take on some of the miles that Conaway would have ridden.

“Even though we had Jeff go down in Colorado, it really brought the team even closer together,” said Brad Ortenzi, the team’s general manager and the Eastern USA Regional Director for ZOE.

The purpose of the race kept the team motivated as well. They exceeded their goal of raising $500,000 and finished second place. In 2019, Team ZOE raised $180,000, and in 2021 they raised $380,000.

“There’s more awareness of child trafficking and ZOE’s efforts to fight it with each year; there’s more of a momentum behind it,” Ortenzi said. “And a large percentage of what we’re doing comes from two counties within Pennsylvania. The race has brought a lot of exposure to ZOE and what we’re doing.”

Ortenzi, a retired detective and online child exploitation investigator, is ZOE’s coordinator with task forces in Berks and Lancaster counties. He oversees restorative efforts and other needs for those rescued from trafficking.

Awareness for ZOE grew during the race on social media, which included live streaming on Facebook.

Quinter and his fellow riders were motivated by what they saw happening on social media.

“We had so much buzz on social media about ZOE and what they are doing and success stories and how they’re rescuing kids out of this,” Quinter said. “I knew it would be big, but that was huge. And the number of people who followed us, who were praying for us, who were encouraging us – that was big. It was very emotional.”

The emotions ran so high, and minds ran so busy thinking about the next day, that the four who were not riding and were on the team bus struggled to sleep. They drove ahead to the next spot, sometimes on bumpy roads, to change over 12 hours later.

“I would have never expected to not sleep,” Quinter said. “If we got three hours a night, riders and crew, people were saying, ‘I got two full straight hours,’ and they were excited. That added to some of the emotion, emotional response that we had.

“But it was big, way bigger than us. And just to see God working through it was crazy.”

Protecting Kids

Online: Parents and Caregivers

Learn

from Human Trafficking Experts About the Tactics Exploiters Use to Lure Children

In April, ZOE held its first Protecting Kids Online (Navigating Digital Dangers) Educational event at Crossroads Community Church in Valencia, California. This event was free for parents and caregivers working with children/youth.

A group of human trafficking experts from the Los Angeles Police Department, Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC), Los Angeles School Police Department, National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, and ZOE International shared current trends that they see in their perspective field of work and how to protect kids from cyberbullying, sextortion, and exploitation.

One parent shared, “It was great to hear such high-caliber people in their field speak about online safety. I have to say I was terrified, encouraged, and infuriated. There was so much important information given, and I learned so much. I hope to see ZOE lead many more events like this in the future. Thank you for what you do to serve children and our community.”

ZOE works to prevent children from being trafficked by offering educational awareness programs to the communities where we operate.

“Traffickers and exploiters have direct access to our children.”

David Cox ZOE International USA Director

Feedback from a mother of three boys who attended the Protecting Kids Online event. Her responses highlighted the eye-opening nature of the information presented and its practical relevance to parenting in the digital age.

What stood out most?

“That my children could be preyed upon using gaming platforms.”

Most shocking fact?

”The amount of Child Sexual Abuse Material using younger children like toddlers. Repulsive!”

Most Helpful Information?

”The panel taking 1-2 minutes to share what they have been doing with their kids. It’s about building a relationship with your kids, making them aware of what phones and pictures can potentially create and do…and helping your kids know how to speak up for themselves, creating boundaries, especially if their friends are sharing or showing things that made them feel uncomfortable or are inappropriate.”

A STORY OF TRANSFORMATION:

Sandy’s Journey from Survivor to Advocate

Sandy’s story is one of remarkable transformation and unwavering resilience. Once a survivor of human trafficking, Sandy faced unimaginable challenges, but her journey took a turn toward hope and healing.

Her willingness to share her deeply personal story has touched the hearts of thousands, raising awareness about the harsh realities of human trafficking and highlighting the profound healing power of God. Today, Sandy stands as a beacon of hope for others, working as ZOE’s Human Trafficking Prevention Program Manager and Lived Experience Expert.

In this role, she not only educates the community about the dangers of human trafficking but also provides crucial victim advocacy support during law enforcement operations.

Sandy’s courage and dedication to her work exemplify the transformative power of faith and the impact that one person can have in bringing about change. Through her efforts, countless lives are being touched, and the message of hope and healing continues to spread.

Scan the QR code to watch Sandy’s inspirational story.

SCAN ME

Expanding ZOE's Impact: The Power of Collaboration

In September, ZOE representatives participated in the Santa Clarita Valley Human Trafficking Prevention Summit, hosted by College of the Canyons and the Santa Clarita Valley Human Trafficking Task Force. This event brought together experts, survivors, and community members to discuss strategies for preventing and combating human trafficking.

A powerful highlight of the summit was the personal story shared by Kia Dupclay, a survivor of human trafficking. At the age of 15, she fell victim to this horrific crime, offering attendees a firsthand account of the challenges faced by survivors.

In addition to Dupclay’s testimony, participants heard from a panel of community partners and other NGOs, including Ester Yu, ZOE’s Western USA Regional Director. The panel shared their experiences and insights on the issue of human trafficking and the importance of collaboration. As Ester highlighted, “ZOE works to provide services to survivors, raise awareness, and advocate for policy changes.”

Other key elements of the summit included:

• Powerful testimonies from survivors of human trafficking provided a firsthand perspective on the challenges they faced and the importance of support services.

• Experts in the field discussed various aspects of human trafficking, including identification, prevention, and intervention strategies.

• Attendees had the opportunity to learn about local resources available to survivors and those at risk of being trafficked.

Collaborative community events like this strengthen ZOE’s efforts to educate and bring awareness to human trafficking while creating a more unified front against this heinous crime. By working together with other organizations, ZOE leverages its collective strengths and resources to make a more significant impact.

United for Change: ZOE Advocates Join California Senator Shannon Grove in Celebrating SB14’s Passage and Strategizing to Combat Human Trafficking in California

ZOE Parent Advocate Sylvia Lacy-Miller and ZOE Therapist Arlene Espinosa at Sacramento with Senator Shannon Grove and other advocates to show support for SB14. Together we celebrated the signing of SB14 into law, and shared strategies on what else California can do to stop the heinous crime of human trafficking.

ADVOCACY

ZOE ADVOCATES FOR STRONGER PROTECTIONS

In 2023, ZOE’s Western USA Regional Director, Ester Yu, met with Assemblyman Isaac Bryan and others in the anti-human trafficking field to share about the violence and injustice that survivors we serve face on a daily basis.

Engaging with lawmakers is crucial for informing and advocating for victims and programs like ZOE. By sharing real stories of survivors and the challenges they face, ZOE helps ensure that legislative actions, such as SB14, reflect the urgent need for stronger protections and support for those affected by trafficking. Ester Yu’s meeting with Assemblyman Bryan is a testament to ZOE’s commitment to influencing policy and enhancing the effectiveness of their mission to combat human trafficking.

Imposing Harsher Penalties for Human Trafficking of Minors

On September 25, 2023, California’s Governor Gavin Newsom signed SB14 into law. This law will steepen penalties for human trafficking of minors in California. The law designates human trafficking of a minor for purposes of a commercial sex act as a serious felony — including under the state’s “Three Strikes” law — and imposes harsher penalties and sentencing enhancements for individuals convicted of the crime.

(L-R) ZOE International USA Director, David Cox; California Assemblymember Thomas Lackey, ZOE International Western Regional Director, Ester Yu; Pennsylvania Senator Dush’s Office, Doug Lengenfelder.

EDUCATION IS KEY TO COMBATING SEX TRAFFICKING

Could you recognize the signs of a sex trafficking victim? At ZOE, we believe that educating and training our community is vital to preventing the atrocity of sex trafficking. And we’ve seen the impact firsthand.

“A few months after one of our prevention trainings for school social workers, we were informed that because of that training, a social worker was equipped to identify a victim of trafficking and report information about this victim to school officials, law enforcement and child welfare agencies. Because of the social worker’s attendance at a ZOE training, the child is now receiving the help they desperately needed,” shared Ester Yu, ZOE’s Western USA Regional Director.

Sex trafficking may seem like an overwhelming issue, but each of us can be part of the solution by learning how to recognize a few key signs.

ZOE TRAINING EMPOWERS STUDENTS TO RECOGNIZE AND COMBAT TRAFFICKING IN ALL ITS FORMS

As part of ZOE’s prevention efforts, staff hold high school trainings to educate students on recognizing trafficking. In a recent “Know the Signs” session at a Santa Clarita school, students learned how trafficking can appear in many forms, including sexual exploitation, forced labor, and manipulation— even by familiar people. “I realized the importance of being vigilant and aware of my surroundings, as trafficking can happen to anyone, even by someone I know,” one student shared. The training emphasized awareness, caution, and action to help prevent trafficking and support victims.

ZOE offers free human trafficking prevention training to parents, nurses, attorneys, school clinicians, church members, hotel and restaurant managers, law enforcement, teachers, students, group homes, businesses, radio stations, and community groups.

USA: (EAST)

ZOE Trains Lancaster County, Pennsylvania CYA on Human Trafficking Awareness and Response

ZOE’s East Coast Regional Director, Brad Ortenzi, had the opportunity to train the Lancaster County CYA (Children and Youth Agency) about human trafficking, including what signs to look for and how to respond with a victim centered approach.

Robin Boyer Director of Intake Services, Lancaster County Children and Youth

“Over the years the Children and Youth Agency in Lancaster has had a variety of training on Human Trafficking. It wasn’t until the Agency participated in a training through ZOE International that caseworkers started to make the connection to the vulnerable population that they worked with everyday and the high risk that some of those youth are presenting with red flags. The unique presentation that was tailored to the staff helped to make these connections. ZOE utilized local facts and numbers along with video snippets from women who were rescued. The feedback that has been received regarding the advocates’ work with our youth has also been extremely positive.”

Pennsylvania Community Unites Against Human Trafficking:

ZOE’s Brad Ortenzi and District Attorney Heather Adams Lead Educational Awareness Event in Pennsylvania

ZOE’s East Coast Regional Director, Brad Ortenzi, and Pennsylvania District Attorney, Heather Adams, delivered powerful presentations at the Anti-Human Trafficking Educational Awareness and Prevention Event, hosted by Pennsylvania Senator Ryan Aument at Warwick Middle School on November 13, 2023. The team highlighted the critical work of the Human Trafficking Task Force and brought to light the harsh realities of human trafficking to members of the community.

This forum was a crucial opportunity to educate the public on the deceptive tactics used by traffickers and to raise awareness about the immense challenges victims face when escaping commercial sexual exploitation. Attendees gained a sobering understanding of the prevalence of trafficking in Pennsylvania and within their own communities. The event also featured a dynamic Q&A session, where participants demonstrated a keen interest in discovering actionable steps they can take, especially in educational settings, to empower youth and reduce their vulnerability to exploitation.

Senator Cris Dush Champions New Legislation to Strengthen AntiTrafficking Efforts and Expand ZOE’s Impact Across Pennsylvania

In honor of Human Trafficking Awareness Month in January, Pennsylvania Senator Cris Dush interviewed Brad Ortenzi to gain deeper insight into ZOE’s vital prevention efforts and his leadership as Coordinator of the Berks and Lancaster County Human Trafficking Task Forces. Senator Dush highlighted the powerful impact ZOE International has made through its partnership with these Task Forces and expressed a commitment to crafting legislation that not only strengthens their efforts but also furthers the ultimate goal of eradicating human trafficking and exploitation. He is also working to establish similar Task Force initiatives across his eight-county Senate jurisdiction, expanding the fight against trafficking.

THAILAND

ZOE Thailand’s Prevention Efforts in 2023:

Empowering Communities to Combat Human Trafficking

In 2023, ZOE Thailand recommitted itself to its prevention efforts with a renewed focus on outreach and education, reaching over 10,000 children and adults, including teachers at the Mae Sot Learning Center. The impact of this outreach was immediate and profound: victims who had been lured through the internet came forward to report their experiences after learning from our awareness programs at their schools.

WHY IS PREVENTION CRUCIAL?

Human trafficking is a pervasive issue, with victims becoming younger and more vulnerable, particularly through the production and distribution of pornography. With the rise of social media and smartphones, Thai children have become increasingly susceptible to online grooming and exploitation. Many children are tricked into online relationships where they are coerced into sharing explicit images. Once these images are posted online, they are almost impossible to remove completely, and in some cases, the images are used to extort money from the victims. This leads to long-term psychological trauma and emotional damage.

Preventing children and youth from becoming victims is the most effective strategy to combat this exploitation. To achieve this, ZOE Thailand reaches out directly to communities and schools, educating them about the dangers of online sexual abuse and grooming. Through interactive classroom sessions, we provide children with the knowledge and tools they need to protect themselves. Unlike short videos that may lack depth or engagement, these inperson sessions allow students to ask questions and gain a deeper understanding of the risks.

FOCUSED EFFORTS IN HIGH-RISK AREAS

ZOE’s prevention work extends to the border regions, where children and families are particularly vulnerable to trafficking. Many of these individuals are migrant workers from Burma who have fled poverty and conflict, crossing the border into Thailand in search of safety and employment. Without official nationality cards, their children are at an increased risk of being trafficked.

Recognizing the importance of education in these vulnerable areas, ZOE has established

networks with around 30 schools along the border. We have invited teachers and school directors to ZOE for training sessions focused on child protection and safe practices. During these sessions, educators learn how to safeguard their students and share their experiences working in high-risk environments. The discussions reveal that the border is a hotspot for trafficking activities, affecting many children and families.

BUILDING STRONG NETWORKS FOR SUSTAINED IMPACT

After training sessions, we continue to build relationships with teachers and school staff through ongoing activities and support. This approach has already yielded results; following a recent educational program, a case was reported to us, underscoring the effectiveness of our efforts. By fostering strong networks among teachers along the border, ZOE has created a vigilant and proactive community that is better equipped to prevent human trafficking.

The success of ZOE Thailand’s prevention efforts in 2023 demonstrates the power of education, community engagement, and collaboration in the fight against human trafficking. By raising awareness, providing essential training, and building a network of informed advocates, we are creating safer environments for children and vulnerable populations. The teachers and community leaders we partner with are now alert, aware, and ready to stand with us in our mission to end trafficking and protect the next generation.

Throughout 2023, the ZOE Thailand team has been actively engaged in a range of initiatives and collaborations to strengthen its efforts in preventing human trafficking, supporting survivors, and fostering international cooperation to end this grave violation of human rights.

• ZOE International participated in a workshop focused on preventing human trafficking, emphasizing the importance of a rights-based approach to combating exploitation. In response to the growing risks children face online, ZOE conducted specialized training on child protection in the digital age and hosted a “Training of Trainers” workshop to enhance social media communication strategies against trafficking.

• Engaging with key stakeholders in Thailand, ZOE attended a meeting with the Executive Committee for the Fund for the Prevention and Suppression of Human Trafficking to discuss strategies and funding for nationwide efforts. Additionally, ZOE hosted a training session on nationality law, addressing vulnerabilities related to citizenship and statelessness.

• On the National Day Against Trafficking in Persons, ZOE was honored with an Outstanding Award for its impactful work in preventing and suppressing human trafficking in 2023. ZOE also conducted training for multidisciplinary teams to develop child-friendly justice processes and enhance staff skills for reintegrating trafficking victims into society.

• Further demonstrating its commitment to collaboration, ZOE hosted visits from the Department of Special Investigation, the Netherlands police, and agencies from Laos to share knowledge and foster cooperation. ZOE also participated in an international conference on human trafficking in the Mekong River region, focusing on cross-border trafficking and cooperative strategies.

• Education and community engagement remain central to ZOE’s mission. Training sessions were conducted to raise awareness of human trafficking and build a volunteer network, while teachers from border schools were trained to support at-risk students. Additionally, officials from the Ministry of Justice’s Witness Protection Department visited ZOE to enhance their understanding of support systems for child victims.

THAILAND

ZOE Thailand Shines at Anti-Human Trafficking Event, Honored for Exceptional Efforts in Child Rescue

ZOE Thailand Foundation took an active role in the campaign against human trafficking at the Impact Exhibition Center in Nonthaburi Province, showcasing a booth filled with beautiful handicrafts created by children under ZOE’s protection. These products highlighted the resilience and creativity of the children ZOE is dedicated to safeguarding.

During the event, significant recognition was given to individuals and organizations making a difference in the fight against human trafficking. ZOE’s own Child Rescue Staff member, Satit Panyachan, was awarded the prestigious “Excellent Individual Award for Efforts in Preventing and Suppressing Human Trafficking,” presented by the Chief of the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security of Thailand. This honor underscores ZOE’s unwavering commitment to protecting vulnerable children and combating human trafficking.

EMPOWERING YOUTH TO COMBAT HUMAN TRAFFICKING:

ZOE Thailand Foundation Joins Forces with Mae Hong Son Province

In an impactful effort to safeguard the future of Thailand’s youth, ZOE Foundation (Thailand), in collaboration with the Office of Human Security Development in Mae Hong Son Province, took a pivotal role in an anti-human trafficking initiative. From July 17th to July 21st, 2023, 500 students from five schools across the province participated in an intensive training program aimed at protecting vulnerable young people from the growing threats of human trafficking and online exploitation.

The program, designed to raise awareness and equip students with essential protective measures, brought together students from Sobmoeiwittayakom School, Chalermrushwittayakom School,

Sangwanwittaya School, Maesarieng Boripat Suksa School, and Mae La Noi Darunsik School. ZOE Foundation representatives, as guest speakers, delivered crucial knowledge on identifying and preventing trafficking risks, empowering students to become active participants in the fight against this global crisis. This initiative not only provided life-saving education but also fostered a community of young advocates ready to stand against the devastating impact of human trafficking. ZOE Foundation expresses deep gratitude to the Office of Human Security Development for this meaningful collaboration. Together, they are shaping a safer, brighter future for Thailand’s youth

THAILAND

MAE LA NOI DARUNSIK SCHOOL LAUNCHES 5TH ANTI-HUMAN TRAFFICKING TRAINING WITH ZOE THAILAND FOUNDATION

On July 18, 2023, representatives from the ZOE Foundation provided students with knowledge and understanding of how to protect themselves and recognize different forms of human trafficking. The event took place at the Darunsik Santhana Auditorium, Mae La Noi Darunsik School.

One Sky and ZOE Thailand Foundations Unite to Educate Youth on Human Trafficking Prevention and Online Safety

On May 23, 2023, One Sky Foundation, in collaboration with ZOE Foundation, organized a training program to educate children, youth, and the general public about the dangers of human trafficking and the risks of online media. The goal of the program was to raise awareness and promote anti-human trafficking efforts. The training was provided to students from grades 7 to 12 (Matthayom 1-6) from May 23 to May 25, 2023, at the auditorium of Udomsitthisuksa School.

VISITORS TO ZOE THAILAND

Thammasat University Visit: On April 24, 2023, ZOE welcomed students from Thammasat University, one of Thailand’s top universities in social work, to learn about our rescue and restoration process.

Ministry of Education Visit: On June 14, 2023, the Ministry of Education visited and inspected the ZOE Learning Center (ZLC), recognizing the quality of our educational programs.

Vocational Training Program Review: On September 28, 2023, officers from the Chiang Mai Institute for Skill Development toured our vocational training programs. They praised ZOE for being fully equipped and commended the excellence of our programs in teaching various occupational skills.

Lao Government Officials Visit: On November 24, 2023, government officials from the Lao Women’s Union and the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare visited ZOE, in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security of Chiang Mai and Winrock International. They aimed to learn about ZOE’s work in prevention, prosecution, and protection, as well as our restoration and self-sustainability projects. The visit was successful, with ZOE being complimented for its best practices and comprehensive approach to human trafficking shelter management.

Ministry of Social Welfare Visit:

On August 31, 2023, officials from the Ministry of Social Welfare’s Department of Children and Youth visited ZOE to observe and learn from our work with children and youth.

ZOE STUDIOS IN THAILAND

Elevating Worship and Outreach

The ZOE Thailand Studio is dedicated to crafting worship and praise music that glorifies God and reaches diverse communities. Our primary mission is to produce songs for worship and evangelism, targeting children and intellectual groups to spread God’s message effectively.

Equipped for live online worship, music recording, and video production, the studio serves multiple functions, from administrative tasks to creating engaging content. It also supports external Christian ministries by offering a space for learning and creating music tailored to their needs.

“Our studio provides valuable learning opportunities in music recording, voice acting, and content production, fostering skill development in a professional environment,” shared ZOE Staff Member, Surat. It also serves

as a rehearsal space and supports other departments, such as media, by providing high-quality sound and video resources.

Surat added, “Looking to the future, we aim to transform the ZOE Thailand Studio into a leading music production hub. Our goal is to create worship music that resonates nationwide and spreads through digital platforms, amplifying our message of faith and hope.”

The ZOE Thailand Studio is not just a workspace; it’s a catalyst for worship, education, and outreach, driven by our commitment to honoring God and impacting lives.

MUSIC STUDIO IN THAILAND

AUSTRALIA

EQUIPPING FAMILIES:

How Australia’s ‘Bringing up Great Kids’ Program Strengthens Communities and Prevents Trafficking

In 2023, ZOE Australia ran the “Bringing up Great Kids” (BUGK) program twice - a six-week initiative designed to support and empower parents and caregivers. Developed by the Australian Childhood Foundation, BUGK equips participants with practical strategies and education to strengthen their relationships with their children and navigate various parenting challenges. The program covers essential topics such as effective communication, discipline strategies, emotional support, and child development. Delivered through community organizations, local councils, and health services, BUGK features workshops, group sessions, and one-on-one support, all aimed at enhancing the overall well-being of families.

“The BUGK program is a vital part of ZOE’s broader strategy to prevent trafficking by addressing its root causes,” shared a ZOE staff member. “Prevention begins with strengthening families; by equipping parents with tools to create nurturing, safe environments, we help reduce the vulnerabilities that traffickers often exploit. When parents are better prepared to handle challenges and maintain open communication with their children, they build trust and safety that makes it harder for traffickers to prey on their vulnerabilities.”

ZOE’s work is about more than just rescue and recovery— it’s about building resilient communities where children are protected and empowered. Programs like BUGK focus on prevention and empowerment as much as rescue and restoration, addressing trafficking from all angles to ensure our impact is both immediate and long-lasting. By supporting parents and strengthening family units, we create environments where children are less likely to become victims. This proactive approach ensures children grow up in nurturing environments that foster their overall well-being.

AUSTRALIA

HANDS-ON IMPACT:

ZOE’s Pathway to Preventing Child Trafficking Course Draws New Enrollments and Engages Communities Across Australia

In 2023, ZOE’s Pathway to Preventing Trafficking course reached new heights, sparking crucial conversations and engaging passionate participants across Victoria, New South Wales, and the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, Australia. The course, which aims to equip individuals with the knowledge and tools to combat child trafficking, welcomed 61 new participants eager to take action.

Three in-person gatherings, held in March, May, and August, provided immersive, collaborative learning experiences that resonated deeply with those dedicated to the cause. In New South Wales, Australia, 20 passionate advocates came together, while 18 more gathered on the Sunshine Coast, embracing the opportunity to dive into course material and connect with like-minded individuals. These events fostered a powerful community committed to making a tangible difference in the fight against trafficking.

The impact of the course was not only seen in its numbers but in the feedback from participants.

One individual praised the course, stating, “Well done, ZOE, for the insightful material, including the phone contract. These courses should be adapted for children as well, so that parents and kids can work together in this fight. We need more international collaboration and expanded resources to effectively tackle this issue.”

ZOE’s Pathway to Preventing Trafficking course is more than a learning experience— it’s a call to action. By uniting individuals, families, and communities, the course is inspiring collective action, empowering advocates, and building the framework for a future where child trafficking is prevented, and vulnerable lives are protected. Through these hands-on sessions, ZOE is forging stronger connections and driving change across Australia.

EMPOWERING YOUTH:

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Program with ZOE Australia

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award program is dedicated to empowering young people to challenge themselves, expand their horizons, and make a meaningful impact in their communities.

ZOE Australia is thrilled to partner with the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, in 2024, to offer an exceptional opportunity for young people aged 14-24 to complete their Voluntary Service Module.

This program provides students with a unique chance to take charge of their personal growth by exploring new topics and engaging in impactful activities. Each week, participants will dedicate 30 minutes to understanding and addressing the critical issue of child trafficking, combining personal development with significant community impact. We look forward to guiding and inspiring the next generation of changemakers through this rewarding experience.

AUSTRALIA

ZOE AUSTRALIA ENGAGES HUNDREDS AT GEOGRAPHY TEACHERS CONFERENCE, SPARKING 73 NEW CURRICULUM DOWNLOADS:

ZOE Australia attended the Geography Teachers Association Conference, an annual event that brings together educators, academics, and professionals to discuss and share insights on geography education. Held in Victoria, Australia, the conference attracted around 300 delegates from across the region. The ZOE table was a hub of activity throughout the day, with teachers eager to explore our Year 9 and Year 10 curriculum resources. We were thrilled by the enthusiastic response, resulting in 73 additional downloads of our curriculum resources. This conference provided an excellent opportunity to connect with educators and showcase our resources in a dynamic and engaging setting.

KILBREDA COLLEGE STAFF TRAINING:

Empowering Educators with Faith-Based Insights

In August, the ZOE Australia team had the privilege of leading three impactful training sessions at Kilbreda College, as part of their staff faith development day. Each session engaged between 25 to 30 educators, focusing on integrating faith into their teaching practices and personal growth.

This initiative was well-received, with a total of 300 delegates participating throughout the day. The sessions were supported by ZOE’s curriculum resources, which saw 73 downloads, reflecting a strong interest in incorporating these materials into educational settings.

ZOE’s training not only enriched the participants’ understanding but also fostered a deeper connection between faith and education, equipping teachers with valuable tools to inspire and guide their students.

REACHING THOUSANDS:

ZOE’s 2023 School Tours Impact 1,266 Students and Staff Across Australia

In 2023, ZOE Australia’s team visited 19 schools and taught numerous sessions to 1,266 students and staff throughout Melbourne, Victoria, Sydney, Adelaide and Sunshine Coast, and Queensland. Some of those schools included:

• St Andrews Christian College

• Maranatha Christian School

• Westminster School & St Michael’s School

• Westminster School Various independent schools -Teacher session

• St Joseph’s College Mildura

• MLC School

• Lorien Novalis School

• Kilbreda College Mentone

• Coolum Beach Christian College

• Roseville College

• Carinya Christian School

• St Joseph’s College Mildura

• Marist Regional College

• Flinders Christian Community

• College Carrum Downs

ILLUMINATING THE PATH FORWARD:

ZOE Australia’s Modern Slavery Research Project

In ZOE Australia’s ongoing commitment to combat modern slavery, ZOE’s Modern Slavery Research Project is diligently examining criminal cases to enhance our understanding and improve identification of children trapped in modern slavery situations. This crucial research not only informs stakeholders but also aims to significantly increase the recognition and support of these vulnerable young victims.

In Australia, the need to protect at-risk children has never been more pressing. The shortage of foster families is creating a critical situation, leaving many children in emergency accommodations like hotel rooms or residential care units. This shortage underscores the urgency of our mission to find and support these children before they are further exploited.

In 2023, we were fortunate to welcome Davina Wijesinghe to our team as a dedicated volunteer. Working alongside our volunteer legal experts Gabrielle and Anna Fitzgibbon, Davina’s contributions have been invaluable in advancing our research and advocacy efforts. Their collective work is pivotal in addressing the gap in child protection services and ensuring that more children receive the care and safety they desperately need.

Through these efforts, ZOE is not only shedding light on the dark realities of modern slavery but also striving to create actionable solutions that will better protect and support vulnerable children across Australia.

AUSTRALIA

ZOE’s

Innovative Approach

to Building Safe Spaces and Teaching Protective Behaviors for Kids

TREEHOUSE GAME

ZOE is committed to continually enhancing its human trafficking prevention resources to support parents and caregivers. To address the critical need for safe spaces and people in children’s lives, ZOE Australia has developed an innovative resource: the Treehouse Game. The Treehouse Game is a non-competitive game designed for children aged 10-12 years (Grade 4-6) and centers around a treehouse, symbolizing a secure base or safe haven, contrasting with the negative experiences some children might associate with home or school.

The objective of the game is for all players to reach their safe place while identifying three safe people along the way. This game helps children build or redefine strategies for recognizing safe people and places, which are crucial for forming strong connections and finding trustworthy individuals. It also focuses on strengthening protective behaviors, promoting healthy boundaries in relationships, and improving skills for identifying and addressing unsafe situations.

In 2023, ZOE began Production Funding for Round 1 of the Treehouse Game development, collaborating with a professional illustrator to finalize the game resources and update the game board. To support this effort, a crowdfunding page was created to invite the community to help bring the game to life.

Safe people and spaces are vital for children’s emotional, psychological, and social development, providing the support and nurturing environment they need to thrive. Through The Treehouse Game, children engage in learning these valuable skills in an interactive and supportive manner, making the Treehouse Game a key part of ZOE’s mission to combat human trafficking and support child safety.

AUSTRALIA

TREEHOUSE GAME PILOTING IN SCHOOLS

The ZOE Australia team completed the pilot phase of the Treehouse Game with three groups of children, and the feedback was overwhelmingly positive. The 12 participants enjoyed various aspects of the game, noting that they liked reading the cards, found the game play straightforward, appreciated hearing others’ answers, and enjoyed the absence of competition. They particularly found the “Would You Rather...” Choice cards are amusing and engaging.

To learn more about The Treehouse Game and our ongoing efforts, visitgozoe.org.au/treehouse-game

JAPAN

ZOE Japan Takes Center Stage at National Police Agency’s Conference, Addressing Child Exploitation and Strengthening Collaborative Efforts

In October 2023, the National Police Agency of Japan hosted its 19th Contact Point Liaison Conference on Trafficking in Persons, drawing an estimated 300 participants from across Japan and around the world, both in-person and virtually. The bilingual event featured expert insights from the Community Safety Bureau of the National Police Agency, Tokyo Metropolitan Police, Immigration Services Agency, and the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

The conference provided a valuable platform to acknowledge the efforts of these organizations in combating trafficking and to discuss ongoing challenges. ZOE Japan was honored to be a guest speaker, with Hiromi Hataji, ZOE Japan’s Regional Director, delivering a compelling presentation on “Protecting Children Against Sexual Exploitation.” Her talk addressed alarming trends in online sextortion, the tactics used by perpetrators, and factors that increase children’s vulnerability to trafficking.

The event not only highlighted the critical issues at hand but also strengthened ZOE Japan’s relationship with the National Police Agency, opening doors for future collaborative initiatives aimed at prevention, rescue, and restoration.

EMPOWERING

FUTURE GENERATIONS

IN OAXACA, MEXICO

On August 12, 2023, ZOE Mexico conducted an impactful prevention event that reached 250 children and 50 teachers, focusing on educating young minds about safety and well-being. The day was filled with engaging presentations and interactive activities designed to captivate and educate. Through interactive games, lively puppet shows, and the enthusiastic participation of Zion the Lion, the event made critical information accessible and memorable for the children. By combining fun with education, ZOE’s mission to prevent abuse and promote awareness created a lasting impression on both the children and their educators, fostering a safer and more informed community.

ZOE MEXICO EMPOWERS OVER 80 YOUTH AT ‘RESISTANCE’ CONGRESS WITH CRITICAL INTERNET SAFETY EDUCATION

In August 2023, ZOE Mexico’s prevention efforts made a significant impact at the Youth Congress called “Resistance” in Mexico, reaching over 80 young people. The team raised crucial awareness about internet risks, sexting, and the dangers of pornography. Through engaging and targeted education, the ZOE Mexico team empowered these individuals with essential knowledge to navigate online threats safely and effectively.

MEXICO

Oaxaca’s Inaugural Prevention Festival Empowers 300 Attendees While Reaching Over 74,000 Online

On May 6, 2023, the first Prevention Festival in Oaxaca, Mexico drew 300 attendees, who were equipped with vital information on protecting themselves from child sexual abuse and human trafficking. Complementing this event, ZOE’s social media efforts reached over 74,000 people, amplifying our message of prevention and empowerment to a broader audience. Through these initiatives, the ZOE Mexico team continues to raise awareness and build resilience against exploitation among children and adolescents.

RESCUE

USA: (West)

Operation Reclaim and Rebuild: January 22-28, 2023

A California, State-Wide Anti-Trafficking Effort

Rescuing children from human trafficking is an incredibly complex and challenging task for law enforcement worldwide. Traffickers often operate in plain sight, making it difficult to identify and intercept their activities. Successful rescues require dedicated operations, meticulous investigations to build strong cases against traffickers, and creating a safe, supportive environment where victims feel secure enough to disclose their experiences.

State-Wide: 368 criminal arrests were made.

Operation Online Guardian: July 10-21, 2023

sexually exploited children rescued

adults rescued suspected sex traffickers and exploiters arrested

total sex buyers arrested. Of that total, 116 arrests were made by LAPD investigators.

ZOE was honored to be involved in Operation Online Guardian, a collaborative initiative involving personnel from 102 agencies from multiple law enforcement agencies across Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties aimed at combating online exploitation and trafficking of minors. It focuses on identifying and rescuing vulnerable youth by utilizing advanced technology and law enforcement partnerships to monitor and address online threats.

criminal offenses involving child sexual abuse, exploitation, and related violations, including acts of assault, possession and distribution of abusive material, solicitation of minors, and breaches of legal conditions such as parole or sex offender registration.

USA: (East)

INTERNATIONAL IMPACT

Child Predator Arrests *

* 2023 Lancaster & Berks County Human Trafficking Task Force statistics 23 98 49 43 18

Thailand:

“John” Arrests * women identified in 2023 stings*

children rescued alongside law enforcement arrests through six operations across Lancaster County, Pennsylvania

USA: (WEST)

RESCUE REGIONAL IMPACT

Operation Reclaim and Rebuild

In January 2023, ZOE International participated in a week-long California statewide effort to combat human trafficking called Operation Reclaim and Rebuild. Operation Reclaim and Rebuild focuses on combating human trafficking by rescuing victims, particularly minors, and providing them with essential support services for recovery. Involving over 100 law enforcement personnel from various agencies, including local police and the California Department of Justice, the operation fosters collaboration among law enforcement, community organizations like ZOE International and service providers to disrupt trafficking networks and empower survivors to rebuild their lives.

The following are the overall statistics reported by the Los Angeles Police Department:

• 6 sexually exploited children rescued

• 128 adults rescued

• 38 suspected sex traffickers and exploiters arrested

• 197 sex buyers arrested

There were a total of 368 criminal arrests made.

ZOE joined operations all over the city to help identify potential victims of human trafficking. Often kids and adult victims feel more comfortable talking to someone who is not in law enforcement. Until a victim feels safe enough to open up and share then wrap-around care cannot begin. It is a privilege to be there for those who need hope.

In an operation assisting law enforcement to help identify victims of trafficking, an adult foreign victim of labor and sex trafficking was identified. ZOE was able to provide support onsite alongside law enforcement, take the victim to a hotel, and care for them until we transported the victim safely home. ZOE was able to connect them to legal assistance, victim advocacy, and church support. Upon returning home, the first text received from the victim was, “I’m home. Thank you.”

ZOE’s church partner was able to take her to dinner that very night, where she shared her life story. The church member shared the gospel and prayed with her. The following Sunday, she attended their church. She continues to receive ongoing support from ZOE and other partners as her trafficking case is being investigated.

At a press conference after the operation with the Los Angeles Police Department, David Cox, ZOE International USA Director shared what happens to the victims once they are recovered:

“We are here because no person should be owned, bought, or sold. There is no such thing as a child prostitute. Twelve-year-old girls selling themselves on the street or online cannot give consent. That’s called rape. ZOE International and our partner agency cared for 489 youth victims of sex trafficking in Los Angeles this past year alone. Those are just the kids we’ve identified.”

INTERNATIONAL RESCUE CASE:

ZOE Provides Culturally-Sensitive Care to Foreign National

ZOE assisted in its first international case involving a human trafficking survivor from Asia. Liu*, a woman in her early 30s, was lured to the U.S. with the promise of a well-paying job as a dishwasher. Instead, she found herself trapped in a cycle of exploitation—her documents were confiscated, she was forced into drug use, debt bondage, and false imprisonment. Alone in a foreign country, she had no one to turn to.

Liu was trafficked through Europe and Mexico before arriving in Los Angeles, where she was coerced into providing illegal services under the guise that it was her only legal option to make money. During a law enforcement sting operation, ZOE identified Liu as a victim of human trafficking. Sandy Esparza, ZOE’s Human Trafficking Prevention Program Manager, shared, “Our hearts were broken when we first met Liu. We knew we needed to help her get out of this situation.” ZOE’s team provided Liu with emergency housing, essential support, and connected her with Mandarin-speaking partners for ongoing relational, spiritual, and case management support. We also referred her to legal services, church partners, and assisted with health benefits, transportation, and basic necessities. Liu expressed deep gratitude, saying, “I didn’t think you would continue helping me. I thought I was on my own.”

Liu has since received her driver’s license, a temporary work visa, and has found a job as a nanny. ZOE and its partners remain committed to her journey, ensuring she doesn’t become vulnerable to exploitation again.

Liu’s story underscores the critical role ZOE plays in empowering survivors and providing them with the tools and resources to reclaim their freedom.

God’s word says, “If a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them has gone astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine on the mountains and go in search of the one that went astray? And if he finds it, truly, I say to you, he rejoices over it more than over the ninety-nine that never went astray. So it is not the will of my Father who is in heaven that one of these little ones should perish.” (Matthew 18:12-14, ESV)

This is the heart of ZOE’s mission and our commitment to each individual we serve.

*ZOE protects the identity of those we serve.

USA: (EAST)

A YEAR OF IMPACT:

Partnering for Impact in Lancaster County’s Fight Against Human Trafficking

The Lancaster County District Attorney’s Office Human Trafficking Task Force, launched two years ago on National Human Trafficking Day (January 11), is a powerful collaboration among local, county, state, and federal entities, as well as private and nonprofit organizations like ZOE International. The task force is dedicated to effectively investigating and prosecuting human trafficking crimes, ensuring comprehensive support services for victims, and raising community awareness through education and outreach.

LAW ENFORCEMENT EFFORTS

In 2023, the Human Trafficking Task Force made significant strides in combating human trafficking in Lancaster County. The task force conducted six operations targeting individuals soliciting prostitution and minors for sexual activities. These efforts led to 49 arrests, including 36 ‘John’ arrests for patronizing prostitutes, 8 child predator arrests, and 5 arrests related to prostitution. In six additional cases, services were offered instead of prosecution.

Through the use of online advertisements and undercover operations, suspects were identified, contacted, and agreed to meet at pre-arranged locations, leading to their arrests. The individuals involved in these cases faced various charges, ranging from misdemeanors to first-degree felonies, depending on their actions and the age of the victims involved. The changes in Pennsylvania legislation now allow those buying sex from trafficking victims to be prosecuted as sex trafficking offenders, facing penalties of up to 20 years in prison.

VICTIM SERVICES AND PUBLIC OUTREACH

A critical component of the task force’s work is providing immediate and ongoing support to trafficking victims through a partnership with ZOE International. ZOE’s trained advocates act as caseworkers, offering 24/7 emotional support and guiding victims through a restorative plan. This collaboration helps ensure victims receive the services and support they need to recover and rebuild their lives.

ZOE INTERNATIONAL PLAYS A CRUCIAL ROLE IN THE TASK FORCE BY:

• Identifying and Supporting At-Risk Youth: Working closely with vulnerable youth and those previously exploited, ZOE provides ongoing advocacy, facilitates educational discussions to prevent future trafficking, and offers mentorship to foster a safe and supportive environment.

• Assisting Victims and Survivors: ZOE collaborates with the task force to provide comprehensive support, including navigating legal, medical, and criminal justice systems, offering emotional and legal assistance throughout court proceedings, and connecting victims to necessary local and national resources.

• Law Enforcement Collaboration: While ZOE’s primary focus is on victim support and prevention, the East Coast team also played a role in supporting the Human Trafficking Task Force’s law enforcement efforts. In 2023, the task force made significant strides:

• 49 arrests through six operations across Lancaster County, PA

• Services offered in 6 cases in lieu of prosecution, allowing ZOE to provide support and resources

• Educational Outreach: ZOE and the task force conduct extensive outreach to at-risk populations, visiting children’s homes, shelters, youth centers, and prisons to educate about human trafficking and online safety. These programs encourage physical, emotional, and mental growth for children who have been trafficked, supporting them through their healing and reintegration journey.

• Community Training and Awareness: ZOE and the task force engage in widespread education efforts, providing human trafficking awareness and training to various groups, including churches, social workers, schools, businesses, non-profits, and healthcare workers. These presentations empower community members to recognize, respond to, and address the needs of trafficking victims in their environments.

THAILAND

HIDDEN HORROR:

Young Girls Ensnared in Thai Karaoke Ring

In the summer of 2023, a grim discovery unfolded in Chiang Rai. The ZOE Thailand team, alongside local authorities, uncovered a dark secret hidden within the neon glow of a karaoke restaurant. Behind the facade of entertainment, a sinister trade flourished. Young girls, both Thai and foreign, were trapped in a world of exploitation and abuse. Their youth and innocence stolen.

A hidden operation revealed a chilling reality: drugs, a corrupting force, intertwined with exploitation. The girls, mere children, were not only victims of sexual abuse but also entangled in the dangerous world of addiction.

Rescuing four young lives from this nightmare was a painful first step. “When they arrived at our ZOE Rescue Center, initially they were

defiant, however, our ZOE Thai staff provided patience, love and support and over time a glimmer of hope emerged,” shared a ZOE staff member. The shadows of their past slowly receded as they embraced new opportunities like going to school. A ZOE staff member added, “Their healing journey from victim to survivor has been challenging, but they are so courageous.” Today, they stand boldly ready to confront their abusers, seeking justice for the wrongs inflicted upon them.

ZOE’s mission is not merely to rescue children from exploitation but to restore their dignity, provide them with the tools they need to heal, and empower them to become agents of change in their communities. We believe that every child deserves a life free from abuse and a future filled with hope.

A SECOND CHANCE:

How Love and Faith Rescued Young Lives

The night of the rescue was a stark contrast to the hope that fueled our mission. Four young lives, rescued from the grasp of exploitation, were brought to the safety of ZOE Thaildn. Yet, their spirits were trapped in a different kind of prison. Fear, anger, and a desperate desire for independence fueled their resistance. Their words were like daggers. Their behavior, like a shield against the world.

“It was a daunting challenge,” shared a ZOE Thailand staff member. “These girls, hardened by their experiences, pushed against the boundaries of care. But within the walls of ZOE, a quiet transformation began. Tender care, coupled with the unwavering belief in their potential, started to chip away at the tough armor they had built.”

Slowly, the seeds of hope were planted. “As they connected with our staff, the girls began to soften. Apologies replaced insults, and gratitude began to replace defiance. A spiritual journey unfolded alongside their emotional healing. The power of faith ignited a spark within them, transforming their lives. They discovered a purpose beyond survival, and a calling to help others.”

One girl, once the most defiant, now dreams of a future dedicated to sharing God’s love. Her journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. As she awaits the conclusion of her legal case, she is preparing for a new chapter, filled with faith and hope.

RESTORATION

INTERNATIONAL IMPACT

USA: (West)

86

44

44

6,783

youth (aged 12-21) survivors of trafficking or high risk for trafficking served in advocacy for up to 2 years

English and Spanish Parent Empowerment Workshops were provided to 23 parents whose children were impacted by trafficking.

parents of trafficked children graduated from our 10-week bilingual empowerment program.

advocacy hours provided (Case Management or Victim Advocacy)

12

1,077

997

teen girl (aged 14-18) survivors of trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation served at ZOE Home for Youth (6 bed home)

nights of housing provided

mental health treatment hours provided

“Living there was something I needed. We got everything we needed. It felt like being somebody’s favorite step child. I feel like that right there really helped me heal.”

Quote taken from the Los Angeles County Five-Year Strategic Plan to Prevent & Address Child Trafficking.

ZOE Home for Youth

RESTORATION

THAILAND:

Vocational Training

4,271

180

490

hours of training

kids served

hours of off-campus internships

ZOE Child Rescue Center

149

54,385

98

ZOE Children’s Home

16

6

children served at the ZOE Child Rescue Center

nights of housing provided

children rescued alongside law enforcement

children received (13 Girls, 3 Boys)

children exited the home

USA: (WEST)

RESTORATION REGIONAL IMPACT

THE TRANSFORMATIVE POWER OF ADVOCACY: A Beacon of Hope for Trafficking Survivors

Broken. Desperate. Utterly alone. Imagine enduring one of the most dehumanizing, gut-wrenching experiences of your life without anyone to rely on. For countless children/ youth trapped in sex trafficking, even those from supportive families, the isolation and misunderstanding can be overwhelming. This is where the ZOE Advocacy Program steps in to bridge the gap and offer a lifeline.

“A ZOE Advocate fills the gap for a child who has been harmed and shares the love of Christ by listening to them and being a safe, trusted place,” shared Ester Yu, ZOE’s Western Regional Director. “ZOE’s Advocates learn about the youth’s immediate needs—whether it’s securing physical safety, addressing emotional trauma, or understanding their social situation.”

ZOE Advocates are crucial in working with children deemed at high risk of exploitation. Their role extends beyond immediate

intervention; they actively work to prevent future exploitation by offering consistent support and guidance. Through this proactive approach, ZOE helps shield vulnerable youth from falling prey to traffickers.

In 2019, ZOE formed a pivotal partnership with the Los Angeles Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), securing a contract to provide advocacy services for children who have either fallen victim to sex trafficking or are at high risk. This partnership marked a

significant step in addressing the needs of these children. When a ZOE Advocate connects with a youth, their primary focus is on establishing a sense of emotional and physical safety. Many of these youths are caught in the grip of traffickers, facing coercion, manipulation, and threats.

“Having an advocate on hand significantly increases the likelihood that a youth will identify themselves as trafficked,” says Ester. “Studies

show that with the support of a dedicated advocate, survivors are more likely to seek help and receive the intervention they need to escape their situation.”

ZOE’s Advocates are not just temporary fixtures in these youths’ lives; they provide ongoing support through weekly in-person meetings, shared meals, and healthy activities. By being present and engaged, they become mentors and trusted figures whom these young people can rely on during their darkest moments.

The ZOE Advocate Program is a testament to the power of compassion and dedicated support. It demonstrates that when someone stands alongside a child in their time of need, offering unwavering support and understanding, the path to healing and recovery becomes clearer. Through this program, ZOE continues to make a profound impact, guiding children from despair to hope and from isolation to a future filled with possibilities.

USA: (WEST)

FROM HEARTBREAK TO HOPE:

How Faith in Jesus Transformed a Survivor’s Life

“The only answer is Jesus” are the words we might expect from someone who has lived a relatively easy life. But these words were shared at a graduation of youth from ZOE’s Advocacy Program, filled with teens who have overcome heartbreak and unimaginable pain.

Displaying how faith in Jesus has begun her healing and changed everything in her life, the graduate shared about how His guidance is helping her to build a new life.

“I waited and listened to Jesus and He answered me,” she shared. “I waited for Him to go to school. At the end of this week, I’ll be getting a job and getting paid $18/hour. I’m going to save that money to get my own apartment. So I’m just getting my whole life together and it’s amazing. I will never in my life again go back to [the trafficker] or think that it’s easier to get money through homies or just men in general; especially the people you associate yourself with - your best friends, homegirls or family. You have to protect yourself more than you want to protect the other person. Jesus will always look into your heart and how you are as a person. I always put others before myself and that’s why I ended up where I ended up, loving my best friend more than I loved myself. I’m happy now that I’m graduating and growing as a person.”

This youth was able to find safety and healing after the trafficker was arrested and later prosecuted and sentenced to prison.

“In the world we live in, you just want to party, live in the moment; get some money,” she continued. “I’m hustlin’, doing this and that. You can just stop and wait for Jesus to answer your prayer, and that’s exactly what I did. I might have sometimes gone back to it, but I always realized and always got a lesson through it. I always listened and learned. The only answer is Jesus.”

GRADUATE INSPIRES TEEN:

A Story of Recovery and Success

One of the teens ZOE serves was hesitant about entering an inpatient substance abuse treatment program. To help her decide, another teen who had completed ZOE’s Advocacy Program reached out virtually to share her own story. She spoke about how the inpatient program had a profoundly positive impact on her life and how she now works as an early childhood education teacher, earning a steady income in a safe and meaningful way. This conversation inspired the teen currently in ZOE LA’s care, giving her the courage to pursue her goals with renewed determination.

“It feels so good to make a steady income in positive ways!”

ZOE Advocacy Program Graduate

FORMER ZOE PROGRAM TEEN CELEBRATES 18TH BIRTHDAY WITH HEARTFELT REUNION

ZOE celebrated the 18th birthday of one of our teens who previously completed ZOE’s program. Staff who have known her for years came to share food and gifts to remind her how loved and valued she is. She said, “This is the best birthday I’ve ever had.”

USA: (WEST)

HEALING BEGINS AT ZOE HOME FOR YOUTH

Nestled on a sprawling 50-acre campus in North Los Angeles County, ZOE Home for Youth (ZHY) offers a lifeline to young girls aged 12 to 17 who have endured the unimaginable horrors of labor and sex trafficking. Designed with their trauma in mind, ZHY is more than a shelter; it’s a home.

For many of these girls, ZHY is the first experience of stability in a life marked by chaos. After a whirlwind of group homes, foster placements, and terrifying periods of disappearance, they finally find a place to breathe. In this serene environment, they begin to rediscover themselves, exploring passions and talents they never thought possible. The gentle melody of a piano, played by one of our residents, is a testament to the healing that takes place within these walls. Here, childhood dreams, long deferred, start to take root.

IGNITING POTENTIAL

When young people find safety and stability at ZOE, it’s life-changing. For the first time in their lives, they have the space to dream, to explore, and to discover their passions. One remarkable young woman at ZHY found her calling in the world of mechanics. With the support of our community partners, including a local church and business, she embarked on a paid internship at an auto body shop. This incredible opportunity not only developed her skills but also ignited a sense of purpose and independence.

YOUTH

Known for running away from every home, a young woman finally found belonging at ZHY. Surrounded by care and support, she stayed for 3.5 months—longer than ever before. A turning point came at a church conference, where she surrendered her past to Christ and asked for a fresh start. With renewed strength, she completed ZOE’s program and began a new life, now pursuing her education with gratitude for the ZOE family who believed in her.

USA (EAST)

“You, Lord, keep my lamp burning; my God turns my darkness into light.”

Psalm 18:28

SMALL ACTS OF KINDNESS IGNITE HOPE AND CHANGE LIVES

During one of our recent ZOE East Coast undercover operations, our dedicated advocate encountered a woman caught in the cycle of exploitation. Despite her initial hesitation to meet in person, our advocate maintained communication and offered her essential winter clothing when she expressed the need. This meeting provided an opportunity for face-to-face connection and a chance to offer more than just a new winter coat and gloves. Along with these essentials, the advocate shared a bag of snacks, a heartfelt note of encouragement, and even a dessert, creating a moment of warmth and care.

During their conversation, this courageous woman opened up about her journey toward sobriety, her efforts to build a supportive community, and her virtual visits with her children. She expressed a deep desire for a better life and, after a recent encounter with law enforcement, was moved by a detective’s words. By the end of their meeting, she acknowledged, “Maybe I need some help detoxing after all,” and expressed a willingness to explore a detox program.

This small step forward is a powerful reminder of the importance of hope and the significance of celebrating every hard-earned victory on the path to healing and wholeness.

FROM DESPAIR TO FAMILY:

How Your Support Helped Rescue a Child and Bring Hope to Her Future

Two years ago, our ZOE Mexico team developed a human trafficking prevention series for underserved schools and neighborhoods within Oaxaca called VIDA. During this time, the team met Maria, a compassionate woman from a local church who would become a beacon of hope for a young child in desperate need.

Maria was entrusted with the care of a threeyear-old girl who had been abandoned in dire circumstances. The child’s mother, struggling with addiction and living with an equally troubled partner, had left the girl alone in a room, neglected and mistreated. Maria, moved by compassion, took the child into her home, driven by the mother’s statement that she was giving the girl up and seeking help from ZOE for protection and care.

When Maria approached ZOE staff, we outlined the steps required for adoption. The first hurdle was obtaining consent from the child’s mother, followed by a thorough legal process. Maria and her husband were advised to prepare an adoption file, including psychological, socioeconomic, and medical evaluations to prove their readiness and suitability.

Our team worked closely with Maria and her husband, guiding them through the necessary interviews and documentation. We visited their home, ensuring that it was a safe and loving environment for the child. Maria and her husband, who are family counselors at their church, received letters of recommendation and support from their pastor.

We accompanied them to the family protection institution to start the legal adoption process, providing support and advice every step of the way. Two weeks ago, after months of dedication and perseverance, Maria and her husband were officially recognized as the child’s legal parents.

This adoption not only rescued the girl from a life of abuse and potential exploitation but also provided her with a loving and stable family. Maria’s unwavering commitment and the support from ZOE have transformed this child’s future, turning a story of despair into one of hope and new beginnings.

ZOE THAILAND

CHILDREN’S HOME

ZOE’s Children’s Home in Thailand, located near Chiang Mai, provides a safe and nurturing family-style environment for children rescued from trafficking or at risk of exploitation. Our comprehensive care model focuses on holistic healing, offering medical treatment, education, emotional support, and vocational training to empower children to rebuild their lives.

With a foundation in trauma-informed care, the home is staffed by trained Thai professionals who address each child’s unique needs. Beyond providing essential necessities like food and shelter, we offer critical healthcare services, including vaccinations, dental care, and annual de-worming—vital given the communal setting and local health challenges.

This home is a key part of ZOE’s mission, which also encompasses anti-trafficking awareness, rescue operations, and longterm restoration efforts in collaboration with local authorities and partner organizations.

THAILAND

A STORM WITHIN: ONE YOUNG WOMAN’S STORY

She arrived at ZOE Thailand like a tempest, a young girl caught in a whirlwind of rage and pain. Her world had been a barren wasteland of neglect and abandonment, and the storm within her raged. Every interaction was a potential explosion; objects flew, clothes were torn, and tears of frustration streamed down her face. It was as if she were a wounded animal, lashing out blindly in fear.

“Our hearts ached as we witnessed her suffering,” shared a ZOE Thailand team member. “We poured out love and patience.” Slowly, with tender care and Jesus’ guidance we began to work to rebuild the shattered pieces of her soul. Basic life skills, once foreign to her, became the foundation for a new life. Gradually, the storms within her subsided, replaced by a quiet strength and a growing sense of self-worth.

“It was a miracle to watch her transformation. The once angry child blossomed into a compassionate young woman. Where once there was chaos, there was now calm. Where once there was despair, there was now hope.” Her journey is a testament to the healing power of Jesus!

“In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”

John 1:4-5

FROM ADVERSITY TO ACHIEVEMENT:

Orphans Embrace New Beginnings with Faith and Hope

Graduation day is a milestone, a bright promise of futures yet to be written. For most, it’s a chapter book ending with a supportive family cheering from the sidelines. But for orphans, specifically in Thailand, the story is different. With no parents to guide or provide, the road ahead stretches out, daunting and uncertain.

Yet, these young souls are driven. Undeterred, they’ve navigated a maze of scholarship applications and part-time jobs, their spirit an unwavering beacon in the stormy seas of doubt. Lonely nights and fear have been their constant companions, but through it all, faith has been their anchor. God’s love, a steady light in the darkness, has sustained them.

Today, a new chapter begins. Scholarships, like answered prayers, have opened doors to higher education. It’s a small step, perhaps, but one that echoes the promise of a brighter tomorrow. As they embark on this new journey, their hearts are filled with gratitude. For in the face of adversity, they’ve found strength, and in God’s promise to care for the orphan, they’ve found hope.

ZOE is committed to walking alongside them every step of the way. At ZOE, we believe that every child deserves a chance to pursue their dreams, no matter their past. We’re here to support, uplift, and empower these resilient young individuals as they chase their goals and build a future filled with possibility.

Through mentoring, love and emotional support, ZOE is not only filling the gaps but also helping these youth realize their full potential. Our commitment goes beyond education; it’s about instilling a sense of family, faith, purpose, and belonging. Together, we’re helping them rewrite their stories—stories that are no longer defined by loss but by hope, faith, love, perseverance, and the unbreakable bonds of a community that believes in them.

ZOE CHILD RESCUE CENTER

ZOE Thailand’s Child Rescue Center (CRC) is a vital facility on our 33-acre campus in northern Thailand, specifically designed to meet the unique needs of child trafficking survivors. It serves as a one-stop facility, providing comprehensive care including medical, psychological, educational, and spiritual support. The CRC is the first of its kind in Southeast Asia, recognized by Thai government officials for its innovation in addressing child trafficking.

Aftercare and Restoration: The CRC provides a safe and nurturing environment for newly rescued children and those requiring special protections. A dedicated team of trained, trauma-informed staff offers physical, emotional, and spiritual care. Children receive nutritious meals, medical assistance, counseling from on-staff psychologists, legal support, and individualized educational and vocational training. The staff, all of whom are Christians, model unconditional love and share the Good News through Bible studies, devotions, prayer, and worship.

Child Rescue Department: The CRC is the headquarters for ZOE’s Child Rescue Department, which collaborates with law enforcement and government agencies, including the FBI and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The CRC is equipped with state-of-the-art resources to support investigations and rescue operations. The facility includes meeting rooms, training areas, and a forensic interview room designed to facilitate the prosecution of traffickers by allowing rescued children to share their stories in a safe, non-threatening environment. ZOE also supports cybercrime investigations through a dedicated CRC cyberlab and is part of the Thailand Internet Crimes Against Children (TICAC) Task Force.

While the work at the CRC can be dangerous due to the ruthless nature of traffickers, ZOE’s unwavering commitment to rescue and restore children remains steadfast. Our staff and partners work diligently to bring justice to victims and ensure their long-term healing and safety.

FROM DARKNESS THAILAND

A Teen’s Journey Back to God and Family

A 15-year-old girl’s testimony. (She first came to ZOE when she was 14 years old.)

“I’ve been a Christian since I was a kid, but as I grew older, I got into drinking, smoking, and using drugs. I stopped thinking about God and fought a lot with my mom. Things got so bad that we cut off our relationship, and I ended up working at a pub in Chiang Mai.

At the pub, I made some bad choices, like trying Ketamine, which I got addicted to. I wanted to stop but couldn’t until I came to ZOE, where I felt like I was reconnecting with God.

At first, I still struggled with bad thoughts, but as I worshiped and prayed, I started to change. I missed my mom a lot and felt guilty for how I treated her. One night, I prayed about it, and the next day my mom called. I apologized, and she forgave me. It was such a relief.

I also talked to the moms at the CRC about my struggles, and they told me Satan would try to stop me from seeking God. That helped me understand, and I prayed for strength to resist those thoughts. Now, I don’t have those thoughts anymore. I thank God for giving me another chance and believe that coming to ZOE was part of His plan for me.”

DARKNESS TO LIFE

From Addiction to Redemption

A 16-year-old girl’s testimony.

“Before I came to ZOE, I was a Buddhist like my family. I started smoking heavily—two packs a day—and spent weekends hanging out with friends. One day, a Christian friend jokingly offered to help me quit smoking by taking me to church. I resisted, felt weird about it, and kept living the same life.

When my family asked me to help pay for tuition, I left my part-time job and started working at a pub. But after a month, I found out I’d been cheated, and the pub owner disappeared. I was stressed, so I started smoking and using drugs more. I became addicted to Ice and

Ketamine, thinking it would make me happy. It only made things worse, and I ended up working as a karaoke girl, which exposed me to even more drugs. My life felt hopeless.

When I came to ZOE, I was in bad shape. I was shaking from withdrawal and angry at everything. But through everyone’s prayers and support, God started to change me. I used to crave cigarettes, but now the smell disgusts me. I didn’t want to study at first, but God changed my heart, and I’ve started studying again. It’s amazing how much God has transformed my life, and I’m grateful for His plan for me.”

THAILAND

FROM UNCERTAINTY TO FAITH

A 15-year-old girl’s testimony. (She first came to ZOE when she was 14 years old.)

“I have four siblings, and I’ve lived with my grandmother since I was two months old. My mother didn’t want me and even tried to get an abortion twice. My grandparents refused to take her to the clinic and promised to care for me themselves. So, I grew up with them in Phayao.

By age 13, I was rebellious, hanging out with older friends, going out every night, and eventually running out of money. When my grandparents wouldn’t give me any, I found a job at a karaoke bar, where I made a lot of money. But on October 6th, ZOE rescued me.

When I came to ZOE, I met P’Nid, Maegumrai, and the social worker team. They made me feel safe

and cared for. One of the girls, P’Mo, shared about God with me and prayed for me. At first, I didn’t understand since I was Buddhist, but after learning more about Christianity, I accepted Jesus as my savior. Now, after 4 months at ZOE, I want to be baptized and keep seeking God.

I’m thankful to God for everything He’s done in my life, and I believe He has a plan for me. If I hadn’t come to ZOE, I don’t know where I’d be now. God loves us, and He always provides the best things for us—we just have to be patient and pray.”

FROM DESPAIR TO DIVINE ENCOUNTER:

Faith and Miracles

“Before I came to ZOE, my life was full of problems—family, friends, and money. I tried going to the temple, but nothing changed. When I got to ZOE, I didn’t like the rules. I couldn’t use my phone, go out, drink, or smoke like I used to. Plus, I had to wake up early to clean, which I hated.

On Sundays, everyone had to go to church. I went, but I didn’t care. I didn’t understand anything about God or what they were saying. I’d just sit there and sleep. But one week, when the pastor asked if anyone wanted to accept Jesus, I stood up and went to the front. It felt like something moved me to go, and I got goosebumps all over.

The next week, the songs I thought were boring became fun, and I felt happy praising God. I started believing more. Later, I joined a camp where we shared the gospel with kids in Omkoi. I helped with games and songs, and seeing the kids’ smiles and joy showed me how even young people can serve God.

At the camp, something amazing happened. I prayed for a grandma who was Karen, and she couldn’t see or hear well. As I prayed, I got goosebumps and felt God’s presence. After the prayer, the grandma began to see and hear more clearly. It was a miracle, and I truly experienced the Holy Spirit.

I’m also thankful that my family understands me better now. Thank you, God, in the name of Jesus Christ!”

A 17 year old girl.

“The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light.”

Romans 13:12

Three Laotian Girls’ Journey From Darkness to Life

Three young girls from different corners of Laos, Thailand were lured across the border with promises of a better life. Instead, they were victims of a cruel online exploitation scheme. Forced to perform unspeakable acts for online viewers, while a shadowy network of Chinese criminals profited from their misery.

Rescue brought them to the safety of ZOE Thailand, but their ordeal was far from over. Fear and uncertainty gripped them as they faced an uncertain future. They were scared as the weight of their illegal entry into Thailand hung heavy on their hearts.

Yet, within the nurturing environment of ZOE, hope began to flicker. With each passing day, the girls found solace in the company of our dedicated caregivers and the transformative power of faith. Vocational training equipped them with skills for a new life, while the teachings of Jesus provided a spiritual anchor.

As the time for their return to Laos approached, one of the girls performed a heart-wrenching act of service, washing the feet of her friends and caregivers. Inspired by the selfless love of Christ, she sought to emulate His humility.

Today, these young women are building new lives in Laos, their resilience a testament to the human spirit. ZOE’s commitment to their well-being continues, offering support and guidance as they navigate this new chapter.

THAILAND

VOCATIONAL TRAINING

ZOE Thailand’s Vocational Training Program Teaches Youth Real-Life Skills and Confidence

ZOE Thailand’s Vocational Training program is transforming young lives. Students are equipped with essential skills for the future and gain practical knowledge that they can directly apply to real-life situations, boosting their confidence and fostering patience. As one student shared, “I wasn’t courageous enough to try cutting wood with a power saw, but now I can do it safely without a problem!” Through hands-on, projectbased instruction, students discover their interests and develop life skills that prepare them for a brighter future. This program not only teaches valuable trades but also helps youth understand their unique abilities and potential, empowering them to make informed decisions and build fulfilling lives.

One student shared, “Vocational training has helped me to practice patience. Before in my life I had an impatient heart and I didn’t like to wait. But now I see the value of doing something slowly step-by-step because there is a process in doing things well.”

A trainer added, “Children/youth are able to learn honest professions that will lead them to a better life. Vocational training helps children/youth discover themselves, i.e. that they are a person with abilities which God has given them as a special gift that will be a blessing to many, and it’s an opportunity for them to learn a variety of occupational options that are available to them when they leave ZOE and supplies them the chance to study in a safe place where they can develop their own dreams.”

Another trainer said, “Vocational training allows youth to explore the world around them through handson, project-based instruction, to engage in meaningful learning experiences that challenge them to think critically, creatively, and collaboratively, and ultimately to be equipped with knowledge and confidence so that they will be empowered to make their own decisions about their own lives.”

ZOE Thailand Learning Center Growing Stronger: A Year of Progress and Improvement

Thank God for the Learning Center Operation Assessment, where our prayers were answered and our dedication recognized. Initially scheduled for an online evaluation on March 23, 2023, we prayed for an in-person assessment to showcase our Learning Center’s potential. Unexpectedly, the supervisor rescheduled, allowing us to adjust the date to March 14, 2023.

On the assessment day, we faced power and water issues but saw God’s provision through prayer. The presentation proceeded smoothly, with the necessary resources available.

The supervisors were deeply impressed by the Happy Life Learning Center. They highlighted the unique combination of academic and professional teaching offered here, noting how it promotes individual student aptitudes— something traditional schools often lack. They admired our vision and the visible happiness of our students, who wore beautiful uniforms and engaged enthusiastically in their work. They were particularly impressed with our students’ clarity of goals and future plans. Each student demonstrated a clear vision for their future, whether pursuing non-formal education,

internships, or higher education in fields like foreign languages, automotive mechanics, hotel studies, or art.

The supervisors also praised our focus on quality over quantity, emphasizing the importance of nurturing individual potential. They envisioned our Learning Center as a model for the education system, highlighting our supportive environment and diverse opportunities that extend beyond the center.

Our Learning Center’s well-managed operations and warm, welcoming atmosphere left a strong impression. The supervisors noted the excellent presentations and operations by our students, the unity among our team, and the overall effectiveness of our program. They acknowledged the high standards we maintain, comparable to large schools, and appreciated the informal, stress-free nature of the evaluation.

We are grateful for God’s guidance and the continued support from everyone involved. May God be glorified in all our efforts and achievements.

A survey of 31 individuals who took part in the ZOE Vocational Training program between 20202023 revealed that after 3-6 months of graduating from the ZOE Vocational Training program, 25 of 31 individuals (81%) were either working (full or part-time) or continuing their studies. Additionally, after 12 months from leaving ZOE, 29 of 30 (97%) were either working, studying, or taking care of children, with only one being unemployed. The type of work included public relations/marketing, security, medical/beauty care, food service, and retail sales.

STRATEGIC INITIATIVES

ZOE

THAILAND DISCOVERY STREET

The first of its kind, Discovery Street in Thailand is an innovative initiative revolutionizing support for child trafficking survivors, endangered orphans, and vulnerable children. Through unique therapeutic learning and a nurturing environment, Discovery Street offers these children a transformative opportunity to heal, learn, and grow.

Imagine a world where these children not only heal but thrive. Discovery Street’s vibrant and playful setting inspires them to explore new skills and talents, transcending traditional education to become a playground of discovery. Its whimsical environment fosters a love for learning, even among those who have lost hope, using art and design to encourage healing and the courage to dream again.

This vocational wonderland not only teaches skills but also empowers children to discover their passions, guiding them towards a brighter future where they can rewrite their stories and achieve success on their terms. Discovery Street represents a revolution in support, striving for a world where every child has the opportunity to heal, learn, and soar.

EDUCATION FOR ALL

Discovery Street extends its impact beyond ZOE’s care, offering educational opportunities to marginalized children. It provides a platform for discovering and exploring new knowledge critical for their future.

CREATIVE SOLUTION

This space serves as a creative solution during recovery and restoration, inspiring learning when motivation is lost. With wacky facades, animated themes, and artistic scenery, it encourages participation and the pursuit of talents and passions.

HEALING ENVIRONMENT

Designed to be visually inspiring, Discovery Street fosters a fun learning environment amidst trauma. It encourages healing and learning in a visually stimulating atmosphere.

EMPOWERMENT AND EXPLORATION

Through whimsical and creative classrooms, the center encourages individual exploration in innovative and imaginative ways. It empowers survivors to start healing, finish their education, and learn how to dream.

VOCATIONAL TRAINING

The center offers vocational training to help children discover their talents and interests, empowering them towards a successful career path.

Whimsical and creative classrooms that will awaken individual exploration in innovative and imaginative ways

Photos are architectural renderings of the buildings and are intended as placeholders.

Click to view video.

DISCOVERY STREET

B u i l d i n g # 3 U p s t a i r s

ZOE’S DISCOVERY STREET:

B

O f f i c e s

B u i l d i n g # 9

C l e a n S t o r a g e U n i t s

S M - Z L T / O u t r e a c h e s

$1.6 Million Raised, $1.9 Million Needed to Complete Innovative Facility Upgrade

G e n e r a l S t o r e

B u i l d i n g # 1 U p s t a i r s :

Z L T S c h o o l

O f f i c e s

B u i l d i n g # 4 D o w n s t a i r s

C o m p u t e r L a b

L i b r a r y

L e a r n i n g C e n t e r C l a s s r o o m s

L C S t o r a g e

B I G - D S S u p p l i e s

B I G - E v e n t s

S M - N G

S M - V e h i c l e M a i n t

At ZOE, we’re making remarkable strides in our ambitious expansion project aimed at enhancing our facilities and increasing our capacity to support vulnerable children. In October 2023, ZOE secured $1.6 million towards this goal, including a generous $700,000 donation from Life Outreach International. However, we still need to raise an additional $1.9 million to fully realize the project.

B u i l d i n g # 2 D o w n s t a i r s :

G i r l s B a t h r o o m s

C o f f e e H o u s e

B u i l d i n g # 4 U p s t a i r s

L e a r n i n g C e n t e r O f f i c e s

L e a r n i n g C e n t e r C l a s s r o o m s

O v e r b y t h e b i g g r e e n s q u a r e ,

t h o s e w h i t e r o o f b u i l d i n g s a r e

V o c a t i o n a l C l a s s r o o m s t o o :

R e s t a u r a n t W o r k

The increased funding requirement reflects our decision to incorporate larger vocational classrooms and additional storage areas, as well as the recent 30-40% rise in global construction costs.

B a k e r y / C r e a m r y

D a n c e - M u s i c S t u d i o

B u i l d i n g # 2 U p s t a i r s :

C h i l d r e n ’ s H o m e O f f i c e

C o u n s e l i n g R o o m

N e x t G e n - D S O f f i c e s

B u i l d i n g # 5

L a r g e B u i l d i n g

D S A u d i t o r i u m

P r o g r a m C o s t u m e s a n d

P r o p s S t o r a g e

C o o k i n g S k i l l s

T r a d i t i o n a l T h a i S n a c k s

B B Q S k i l l s

F i r s t A i d R o o m

In parallel with our fundraising efforts, we are actively interviewing architect firms and seeking reliable partners for this complex endeavor. Our commitment to excellence drives us to ensure that we select the best design, architects, and builders for the project. This meticulous approach has been our hallmark over the past 15 years, during which we have successfully constructed multiple facilities in Thailand. We pride ourselves on completing projects on budget and maximizing the impact of our donors’ contributions.

B u i l d i n g # 3 D o w n s t a i r s :

H a n d C r a f t - S e w i n g P r o d u c t s

S a l o n

B a n k - F i n a n c e

B u i l d i n g # 6 ( I n c o r r e c t 5 )

S m a l l e r B u i l d i n g

S h o r t T e r m S t a y f o r D S

V o l u n t e e r s a n d I n t e r n s

B u i l d i n g # 7

S p o r t s F i e l d a n d P o o l

P h y s i c a l F i t n e s s

M e n t a l - H e a l t h B e n e f i t s

S p o r t s T h e r a p y

S w i m m i n g L e s s o n s

While each project has posed its own set of challenges, the results have consistently been worthwhile. Our facilities are now in daily use, providing crucial support to children in need and earning recognition from local governments for our high standards of care. None of this would be possible without the steadfast support of our generous donors, to whom we extend our heartfelt gratitude.

T r a i n i n g - C o n f R o o m

O f f i c e s

S t a f f C h i l d r e n a n d

E m e r g e n c y D a y c a r e

B u i l d i n g # 8

check numbers

M e c h a n i c a n d V e h i c l e

M a i n t e n a n c e

Click to view video.

THAILAND MERCY CENTER

STRENGTHENING IMPACT:

ZOE’s City Center Grows Through Partnership with Children’s Hunger Fund

At ZOE International, we’ve been blessed with a strong partnership with Children’s Hunger Fund (CHF) since 2008. Together, we launched our first Mercy Network with 12 Hill Tribe churches in 2009, and today, this network has grown to support 73 churches. These churches play a crucial role in ministering to the Hill Tribe people and families in the slum areas of Chiang Mai and the Isaan region of Northeast Thailand.

Our mission at ZOE is multifaceted: we proclaim the gospel of Christ, combat human trafficking, rescue and restore trafficking survivors, and protect at-risk orphans. The Mercy Networks, supported by CHF, complement our efforts by providing families with essential resources and spiritual care, helping to prevent the desperate circumstances that can lead to child trafficking.

We’re excited about our City Center in Chiang Mai, Thailand, which offers a safe haven for children aging out of our Protection Restoration Center. This 4,012-square-foot house, situated on a quarter acre of land, is in the final stages of becoming our permanent property. The City Center houses our Mercy Center and include an auxiliary building for offices and other vital functions.

A key feature of the City Center is its remodeled commercial kitchen, which is used to prepare meals for our outreach to vulnerable children. The first level of the building serves as a versatile multipurpose space, capable of seating 50 children (or up to 100 if seated on the floor) for meals. This area functions as a classroom, a meeting space for pastors, and storage for CHF Food Paks distributed through our Mercy Network churches.

Through these combined efforts and facilities, we at ZOE are committed to making a lasting impact in the lives of vulnerable children and families across Thailand, all while sharing the love of Christ.

The City Center home has been paid for in full. Additionally, we’ve expanded our capacity by adding another multi-purpose building to the property, also fully paid for. These initiatives have greatly enhanced our ability to serve and protect vulnerable children in our community.

THAILAND

MERCY NETWORK PASTORS CONFERENCE

The ZOE Thailand team held a two-day pastors conference in Chiang Mai and in Isaan for all of the pastors in the Mercy Network.

“One of our pastors has a church on the border of Thailand and Laos. Many of the people that he brings the CHF Mercy Netword Food Paks to are people who cannot work in Thailand,” shared a ZOE Thailand Staff Member. “One family that he reached out to is a man from Laos who is married to a woman from Thailand. The church started to visit this family and after several visits the whole family accepted Christ. Now their two daughters are both a part of the worship team at the church and the father helps to clean the church so that he can have work.”

THE G.O.D. PROJECT

ZOE’S GLOBAL ONLINE DIRECTIVE:

Expanding Digital Outreach to Spread the Gospel and Combat Child Trafficking Worldwide

ZOE’s Global Online Directive (G.O.D. Project) is a strategic initiative leveraging the internet and social media to maximize our online impact and fulfill our mission of reaching every person and rescuing every child.

With over 3.2 billion people who have never heard the Gospel and more than 10 million children suffering from trafficking, a strong online presence is essential to spreading the Good News and providing prevention education on a global scale.

In 2023, ZOE Thailand and ZOE Japan—two countries where Christians make up less than 1% of the population—began building an extensive library of online Gospel resources, including video testimonies, and evangelism and discipleship content.

ZOE Thailand completed renovations of its studio for podcasts and video recordings, while ZOE Japan conducted surveys and street interviews to gather research for new materials and started pre-production on several new testimonies.

To enhance our prevention education efforts, ZOE Thailand launched a new website featuring high-quality educational resources and two new social media channels that are regularly updated with engaging content.

Through targeted ads on major social media platforms, ZOE Japan achieved over 10 million impressions with their educational content and received more than 45,000 website visits. Many children identified themselves as

victims of sexual exploitation through our social media efforts and contacted the ZOE hotline for help. ZOE Japan also launched four new e-learning courses in both Japanese and English as free educational resources for the public.

This is just the beginning! Stay tuned for exciting developments.

ZOE’S GLOBAL ONLINE DIRECTIVE

THAILAND

PROTECTING OUR CHILDREN

PROGRESS ON THE WALL CONSTRUCTION AT ZOE’S CAMPUS IN NORTHERN THAILAND

The wall construction project at our campus in the mountains of Northern Thailand has been a challenging endeavor, mainly due to the unpredictable jungle weather. The team has faced downpours so intense that visibility is reduced to less than 20 feet. These severe conditions, combined with the muddy terrain and delays in receiving shipments of materials, have tested our resolve. However, despite these obstacles, the team has persevered, and we are excited to report significant progress.

All the pillars have been driven into the ground, the foundations are laid, and nearly every section of the wall has been constructed using steel-reinforced precast concrete. After reviewing the site this morning, we estimate that about 90% of the wall is now complete.

We are incredibly grateful for the resources that have made this project possible and for the protection this wall will provide for the children on our campus. We look forward to seeing the wall fully completed in the coming months, enhancing the safety and security of the children we serve and our community.

AERIAL VIEW

ZOE THAILAND’S GREENHOUSE INITIATIVE

Cultivating Self-Sustainability and Feeding Communities in Need

ZOE Thailand is making strides toward self-sustainability through our greenhouse and agricultural initiatives. With the help of recent grants, we are in the process of building multiple greenhouses, aiming not just to feed our team and the children at ZOE, but to produce an abundance that can be shared with others in need. This initiative has already borne fruit, providing vegetables to four children’s homes in 2023. Additionally, a surplus of produce is donated to nearby children’s homes and non-government organizations. Your generosity is helping us extend our reach and impact far beyond our immediate community.

• 3,000 kg. of vegetables produced

• 300 kg. of fish produced

• 1,200 kg. of mushroom produced

• 400 kg. of frogs produced

• 1,000 kg. of eggs produced

• 5,280 kg. of pigs produced

FINANCIALS

January 1, 2023-December 31, 2023

$8,031,889

$8,092,299

General

Restricted

Contracts

Other

Housing & Related Services

Advocacy & Education

Missions

General & Administrative Fundraising

ZOE International undergoes an independent audit each year to ensure financial accuracy and transparency. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of accountability and stewardship, and our audited financial statements are available on our website upon request.

THANK YOU

“I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.”

Philippians 1:3-5

ENGAGING THE NEXT GENERATION

Nathanael Walks 13,000 Steps Daily to Raise $3,223 for ZOE’s Anti-Trafficking Efforts

Nathanael, a 13-year-old son of ZOE missionaries in Thailand, took part in the ZOE USA Rescue Walk to support at-risk children or those affected by trafficking. His ambitious goal was to walk an average of 13,000 steps per day and raise $1,000 for ZOE’s global ministries. Thank you, Nathanael, for your dedication and incredible effort in making a difference!

How a Child’s Simple Gesture Inspires the Fight Against Human Trafficking

Shortly after the ZOE Race Across America (RAAM) team secured third place in the 2023 RAAM, Brad Ortenzi, ZOE’s East Coast Director, shared a touching story that perfectly captures the spirit of their mission.

“Nate’s daughter comes up to me and hands me an envelope. It was decorated with stick-on gems and jewels,” shared Brad. “The way she handed it to me was breathtaking. I knew there was something behind this. So, I asked her parents what the backstory was.

Her mom said that when Jeff crashed, she told Nate’s daughter why they raced, to help kids who need to be rescued and saved. So, this sweet little girl dashed up to her room, decorated an envelope and emptied her piggy bank into it. Then, she handed it to me. This is a perfect picture of pure innocence punching pure evil right in the face. That is why we compete in Race Across America. We all can do something, and Nate’s daughter did everything.

She inspired me, someone who’s in the trenches every day and

wants to give up sometimes. It’s a perfect example of why we do what we do – why we choose to do cycling to bring awareness to trafficking.”

Nate was one of the cyclists who participated in ZOE’s 8-man cycling team, competing in the 2023 RAAM.

USA: (WEST)

Kim Fisher serves as a volunteer for the Pioneer Class at Valencia United Methodist Church in California where she incorporates ZOE’s Kids Helping Kids Program in the curriculum.

“The more I have learned about human trafficking the more I realize how awful it is,” shared Kim Fisher.

“It’s really important for the 5th and 6th graders I work with, not so much to know the details of child trafficking, but it’s important for them to be generous and put their shares toward other people in the world because they are God’s people, too. They need to know what might be a little bit for them could be a lot to someone else in the world.

I’ve partnered with ZOE for 20 years now, and people are starting to see that this is a bigger problem than they realized and that it impacts all of us. It’s local, it’s here. In general, people just don’t want to know the ugliness of it.”

Ministries Are Empowered to Inspire Generosity with ZOE’s Kids Helping Kids Program

ZOE’s Kids Helping Kids program empowers ministries to instill a spirit of generosity and global awareness in their youngest members, teaching them that no matter how small they are, they can make a BIG difference. This interactive and fun project equips children with the tools and understanding needed to make a significant impact in the lives of children worldwide. Through Awana clubs, Vacation Bible Schools, scouting groups, and children’s ministry programs, Kids Helping Kids is seamlessly integrated into existing activities. The program is fully customizable to fit the unique needs of any group and serves as a powerful mission tool, particularly during Vacation Bible Schools, with families, and during the holiday season.

“Each child is provided with a plastic tube to collect quarters, with each filled tube totaling $15—enough to feed, clothe, and educate a child

in Thailand for a full week,” shared Karen Miyamoto, ZOE Donor Relations Manager. “Since its launch, churches, youth groups, and community organizations have collected thousands of these tubes, showcasing the incredible creativity of kids when it comes to raising funds. These contributions have significantly empowered ZOE to continue its mission of reaching every person and rescuing every child.”

By participating in the Kids Helping Kids project, children not only learn the importance of generosity but also gain a deeper understanding of the global impact of their contributions. Imagine if your ministry filled 1,000 tubes—that would be $15,000, all of which will bring hope and transformation to the children in ZOE’s care.

WHAT’S IN A KIDS HELPING KIDS TOOLKIT?

• Quarter Tubes – used to collect quarters

• Poster – “What will $15 buy in the U.S. vs. Thailand”

• Parent Letter – explains overall program

• Supplemental Curriculum – 5-week mini lesson focused on missions

• Activity Sheet – for kids

• ZOE Brochure – shares about the mission of ZOE International

• Videos– tools to help launch the program successfully

USA: (WEST)

MOBILIZING A GENERATION:

ZOE’s My Gen My Fight Program

ZOE’s My Gen My Fight Program is calling on the current generation to take a stand against human trafficking. By engaging students and communities across America, this program raises awareness and actively prevents human trafficking through events and clubs on school campuses. My Gen My Fight empowers people of all ages to become part of a collective movement to end the most egregious form of modern-day slavery.

The program offers a range of resources, training, and consultation for those who are ready to make a difference. Whether you’re a student eager to start a club at your school or a community member looking to host an awareness event, ZOE provides the tools needed to turn passion into action.

The inspiration behind My Gen My Fight comes from ZOE’s Founder and President, Carol Hart, who often lamented not being around during the 18th and 19th centuries when slavery was prevalent in the United States, or during the 1930s and 1940s when she could have fought against the atrocities of the Holocaust. Upon learning about modern-day human trafficking and, particularly, the trafficking of children, Carol knew that this was the cause she was meant to champion. Her determination led to the rallying cry: “This is my generation, and this is my fight.” It was from this sentiment that My Gen My Fight was born.

This program encourages everyone—regardless of age—to get involved. Whether you are 5 or 105, your participation is vital in the fight against human trafficking. My Gen My Fight equips ordinary people with the tools to do something extraordinary, calling each generation to become warriors in the battle for justice and the freedom of children around the world.

Since its inception, over 30 schools have participated in fighting for freedom and justice.

MY MY

MY GEN, MY FIGHT

USA: (WEST)

Raising Awareness and Inspiring Action: High School Club Partners with ZOE to Combat Human Trafficking on Campus

Paul Yoon is a High School English Teacher at Santa Clarita, California’s West Ranch High School. Paul partners with ZOE by running a human trafficking awareness club for students at West Ranch High School.

“Human Trafficking is occurring on the high school campus. It’s something that is happening literally within our school so for us to raise that type of awareness on campuses is something that is important.

We started our club about ten years ago. We break it up into two semesters. The first semester is to really just educate the students and bring awareness to motivate them to take action.

In the second semester we hold a human trafficking awareness week. We blitz the campus all week long raising awareness - it all culminates at the end of the week and we hold an event in the theater where we invite students to come out and invite human trafficking survivors to come and share their story. That is impactful for our students to hear the reality of what is happening in our world.

ZOE has been amazing to partner with simply because the emphasis on so many of our club meetings is just about education and learning about trafficking. There’s something more impactful when you actually have people coming in who are on the field, who are sharing their experiences who are literally rescuing kids off the street. It comes with so much more authority and information for the students. I would encourage anyone to partner with ZOE because all of us can make a difference given our circumstances, influence, and resources.”

DONOR ENGAGEMENT

ZOE GLOBAL VISION MEETING

On August 28, 2023, ZOE’s dedicated donors and partners came together for the first Virtual Global Vision Meeting. This special event featured inspiring updates from ZOE country leaders in the USA, Thailand, Japan, Australia, and Mexico. Leaders shared powerful stories and key milestones achieved in our mission to spread the gospel and combat human trafficking globally. The meeting provided an invaluable opportunity to celebrate shared successes and discuss ZOE’s vision for the future. Participants also engaged in a Q&A session, deepening their understanding of their impact.

ZHY SERVE DAY

Rocky Peak Church held its annual All-Serve Day where church members volunteered their time to serve the local community at ZHY in Acton, California. A group of over 50 volunteers from Rocky Peak Church spent the day at ZOE’s Home for Youth campus!

Volunteers cleaned the bedrooms, classrooms, and common areas inside the buildings, and tackled a variety of cleaning and maintenance projects around the property. Outside, they performed landscaping tasks like raking leaves, pulling weeds, and trimming bushes and trees.

Other volunteers washed windows, cleaned gutters, and painted fences and walls that needed a fresh coat. The All-Serve Day allowed Rocky Peak Church to demonstrate their faith through service while supporting ZOE’s mission of caring for children in need.

DONOR CARE TEAM

In 2023, ZOE launched our ZOE Donor Care Team. ZOE has so many incredible donors that support and push forward the mission to Reach Every Person and Rescue Every Child. ZOE’s heart is that we can love and care for our donors, and be a small portion of blessing back to them as they are an incredible blessing to us.

The ZOE Donor Care Team meets bi-weekly working on different ways to thank, pray for, and care for our donors. Through mailings, writing thank you cards, prayer, making calls, sending gifts, etc. the donor care team helps care for the incredible supporters of ZOE.

WE ASKED, YOU ANSWERED!

We reached out to you– our supporters– and asked for your feedback! Thank you for your kind words and faithful prayers. We cannot do this important work without you!

“Supporting ZOE is important to me because of the great need and good work that is happening through ZOE. To have children and adults be taken to be trafficked is horrible and I pray that this will end. It is not ok. I can’t think of any ways to improve the experience. I thank you and your organization for everything you are doing.”

“ZOE does amazing work for the children and community. I am so glad I learned of your organization and I’m able to help the best I can. It’s important for the children of ZOE to know that they are not alone and they are supported and loved.”

“Jesus is at the center. Because the staff I have interacted with are topnotch. And because human trafficking is an absolute evil that I want to do everything I can to help stop!”

“I can’t even think about the crisis without tearing up, especially since it involves innocent kids whose lives can be ruined forever if I/we don’t do something. It’s my duty as a Christ-follower to help my community and world!”

“ZOE is doing an incredible job of raising awareness of child trafficking and child slavery both here and abroad. I would encourage ZOE International to continue in their God given work and establish their ministry in other countries. I would love to see the work in the U.S. expanded as well.”

“Children are so very precious and valuable to God and me. They need to be protected and provided for and trained in the things of God to reach their generation. Jesus loves the little children and so does ZOE. Thank you so very much for all you do for all these children.”

“ZOE is doing an amazing job spreading the love of God and doing the most for the people this world has forgotten or chooses to ignore. We are happy to be a small part of that. What you do really matters!”

“When you feel you can’t do much personally and physically to help prevent the horrors of human trafficking. ZOE is there to be the Hands and Feet and gives me an avenue to be apart of.”

“Organizations like ZOE International that help shine the light of righteousness and truth in this dark world are so valuable and needed. ZOE is making a definitive difference by effectively rescuing young girls who are being exploited through trafficking. This work is highly commendable and needs to be supported.”

PARTNERS

Partnerships are a key element of our effectiveness as an organization. In all countries where ZOE operates, we collaborate with governments, law enforcement agencies, and non-governmental organizations to rescue and serve children who have been trafficked.

LAW ENFORCEMENT AND INVESTIGATIVE AGENCIES

• U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

• U.S. Department of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI)

• U.S. Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC)

• Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department

• Los Angeles Police Department

• Thailand Internet Crimes Against Children (TICAC)

• Thailand Anti Trafficking In Persons (TATIP)

• The Royal Thai Police, Region 5

• Oaxaca, Mexico Attorney General’s Office

• DIF National System for Integral Family Development, Oaxaca, Mexico

GOVERNMENT AGENCIES

• Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS)

• Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health

• Thai Ministry of Social Welfare and Human Security

• Senate of the Republic of Mexico, Anti-Trafficking Committee

TASK FORCES

(Including Dozens of Nongovernmental Organizations) –Most of these task forces meet monthly and several ZOE Directors serve on the leadership teams of these task forces.

• Human Trafficking Congressional Advisory Committee (Former Committee)

• Los Angeles Regional Human Trafficking Task Force (LARHTTF)

• Antelope Valley Coalition Against Human Trafficking

• Santa Clarita Valley Human Trafficking Task Force

• San Gabriel Valley Human Trafficking Task Force

• Anti-Trafficking Multidisciplinary Task Force of Northern Thailand

• Thailand’s Trafficking in Persons Forum

• Japan Network Against Trafficking in Persons (JNATIP)

• Thorn, IJM, NightLight, HUG Project, A21, Jenatip (Japan)

SANTA CLARITA VALLEY (SCV) HUMAN TRAFFICKING TASK FORCE

Pastor Dan Broyles, Valencia Hills Community Church, California Director, SCV Human Trafficking Task Force

“ZOE is a member of the SCV Human Trafficking Task Forces and provides support for minor and transitional age youth recovered from sex trafficking. ZOE is a trusted and leading voice in our community in regards to human trafficking. ZOE works well with different aspects of the community such as social service agencies, government agencies, and faith-based organizations.”

CHURCH PARTNER

“I believe it is the church’s responsibility to search out the things that would agree with the heart of God and stand for any kind of social injustice. Our congregation has adopted it just because we are vocal about it. We are doing whatever we can and making sure we aren’t quiet about it.”

Pastor Tymme Life 150 Church Burbank, CA

GOVERNMENT PARTNERS

Adela Estrada, M.A. CSEC Program Administrator Bureau of Specialized Response Services Department of Children and Family Services

“The Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services partners as members of the Los Angeles Regional Human Trafficking Task Force (LARHTTF), where ZOE provides support for minor and transitional age youth recovered from sex trafficking. ZOE is a contracted provider with our Department to provide advocacy services for survivors of Commercial Sexual Exploitation (CSE) and continues to provide quality advocacy services for youth who are being supervised by DCFS and/or Probation.”

LOS ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT

Kris Pitcher Chief of Police with the Los Angeles Police Department

“The LAPD is part of the LARHTTF and fully supports ZOE and their critical work to enhance the quality of services available to child human trafficking victims. ZOE works in close collaboration with law enforcement, local service providers, community and faith-based organizations to ensure child trafficking victims are identified and referred for services. ZOE also conducts much-needed training for professionals to improve their ability to recognize and respond to victims of human trafficking.

ZOE is a member of the LARHTTF and collaborates with the Department by providing crisis response, case management, and advocacy services to children and transitional age youth who are identified as victims of human trafficking.

The LAPD is committed to supporting sex and labor human trafficking crime victims in Los Angeles County and vigorously prosecuting perpetrators. The Department appreciates the ongoing partnership and collaborations with ZOE in supporting human trafficking victims.

The Department enthusiastically extends its full support to ZOE as a partner in providing services to human trafficking victims in Los Angeles County.”

Robert G. Luna, Sheriff Richard Ruiz, Captain Special Victims Bureau Office of the Sheriff (County of the Sheriff)

“On behalf of the LARHTTF, I am pleased to support ZOE and their ability to enhance the quality and quantity of services available to child trafficking victims. They work in collaboration with law enforcement, local service providers, community, and faith-based organizations to ensure child trafficking victims are identified and referred for services; and conduct training for professionals to improve their ability to identify and respond to victims.

ZOE is a member of our LARHTTF and collaborates with the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department by providing crisis response, case management, and advocacy services to children and transitional age youth, who are identified as victims of sex trafficking.”

ZOE FREEDOM PARTNERS

ZOE Freedom Partners are a dedicated group of monthly donors who play a vital role in sustaining ZOE’s mission to protect, educate, rescue, and restore vulnerable communities. Their unwavering support provides consistent resources, enabling us to plan strategically and respond swiftly to the needs of those we serve. As loyal partners, they help ensure that ZOE can continue making a lasting impact, bringing hope and transformation to countless lives.

Individually, each Freedom Partner is a beacon of hope. Together, we are a passionate community of changemakers, committed to delivering protection, education, rescue, restoration, and God’s love to those who need it most.

Meet the donors committed to protecting vulnerable children and sending God’s love to the unreached.

ZOE Freedom Partner Monthly Donor

Oriana John has always been passionate about community service and volunteering. But when it came to human trafficking, a gala event where real stories of rescue were shared, was when she was deeply impacted.

“I was kind of aware of human trafficking, but never focused on it. But then, I was invited to a ZOE gala in Anaheim. I went to the event and it was mind-blowing. It was emotional. I have been to many gala events, but I’ve never been a regular donor. After Carol shared stories of ZOE’s work, there was not a dry eye in the room. That night, I became a monthly donor.”

Oriana continued to give faithfully until she was laid off of work. But even when her new job made less than half of what her previous job did, she began regularly giving again.

“I learned that it’s the best time to give when you can’t. It might not be a lot, but every penny counts,” she shared. “Even with making less in this new job, I know that God will provide. And He continues to.” Years later, Oriana remembers the impact of Carol’s story and she continues to faithfully support the work of ZOE.

“You hear things on the news, but when I heard Carol share about her experience in Thailand, it hit me that this happens for real. You look at those kids and wonder, how could people be so cruel, so evil? That’s why I want to help as much as I can.”

ZOE Freedom Partner Monthly Donor

“In 2017, our family had the opportunity to visit ZOE Thailand,” said Melanie Bunn, a Freedom Partner monthly ZOE donor. “We saw firsthand the staff’s love for the children and their true desire to restore them to the way God created them to be. Our whole family fell in love with the mission of ZOE – to reach, rescue, and restore children who are victims of human trafficking. This experience forever changed our lives, and we are committed to helping ZOE fight human trafficking.”

ORIANA JOHN

THE BUNN FAMILY

ZOE GUARDIAN ALLIANCE

BEACON OF HOPE:

How Your Support Through Guardian Alliance Transforms Young Lives

At ZOE, we are unwavering in our commitment to fighting for children affected by human trafficking. We extend our care to at-risk orphans, children vulnerable to being sold, and survivors of various forms of exploitation and abuse, including labor, begging, and sex slavery. Our mission is to rescue and provide comprehensive care for all these children, offering them the chance to heal and thrive in a safe environment.

ZOE’s Guardian Alliance child sponsorship program is uniquely dedicated to defending and protecting these children. This program ensures they receive 24/7 care and support, helping them rebuild their lives, either by preparing them for a successful reintegration into society or by reuniting them with family members who can provide ongoing care.

We are deeply grateful to our sponsors, whose generosity enables us to offer a wide range of essential services to these young lives. Full sponsorship of a child at $250 per month covers vital needs, such as counseling, medical care, education, nutritious meals, clothing, recreational activities, legal advocacy, vocational and life skills training, and a safe environment.

Even a modest contribution of $25 a month makes a significant impact in the life of a child. Importantly, 100% of the monthly support directly benefits the sponsored child, ensuring they receive the help and protection they need.

The Guardian Alliance is a community—a group united by the shared goal of protecting and defending children in need.

ZOE Guardian Alliance Child Sponsors:

• Choose the age and gender of a child to sponsor

• Have the joy of supporting an individual child

Since its inception, over ten years ago, the Guardian Alliance program has cared for over 50 vulnerable children, providing them with the resources and support necessary to overcome their traumatic experiences and build brighter futures.

Together, we are creating a safer, more hopeful world for every child in our care.

“The reason we sponsor a ZOE child monthly is because we realize life is not about us, it’s

about how we can help others! We taught our kids the same thing!”

Marshall and Stephanie Guardian Alliance Child Sponsors

• Receive a concealed identity photo and a profile of your child upon sign-up

• Send a letter of encouragement to their child’s ZOE family

• Receive two updates and updated concealed identity photo of your child annually

• Have the opportunity to sponsor your child until they reach independence

ZOE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Michael Hart Founder & CEO

ZOE International

Carol Hart Founder & President

ZOE International

Les Ginoza Vice President

ZOE International

Todd Powers CEO, Empower International

Keith Hershey CEO, Mutual Faith Ministries International

Stanley Date IBM Executive (retired)

Kiha Pimental Pastor, Four Square Missions

Cathy Hong Owner, Conico Oil

Juliette Ross Upset the World, LLC

ZOE INTERNATIONAL’S GLOBAL PRAYER

Lord, guide us as we seek to reach every person with Your Good News and rescue every child from human trafficking. Fill us with passion, excellence, and love as we strive to bring Your LIFE to everyone we encounter. May our efforts honor You and fulfill the mission You’ve entrusted to us. Unite us in Your purpose, and let our gratitude for Your grace fuel our commitment to support this vital work.

In Your name, Jesus, we pray.

GET INVOLVED

Step out of your comfort zone to use your gifts and talents to fulfill the great commission and join our short-term mission’s trip to Thailand! Use your gifts for kingdom purposes and meet and serve orphans and child survivors of human trafficking.

VOLUNTEER

Change begins with one person–you! Sending the gospel worldwide and rescuing children from human trafficking is a big goal and it takes a team of dedicated and passionate people bringing their time, talents, and treasure to the table.

PRAY

A vital part of the work we do happens because of prayer. It keeps our team focused and centered on God’s will as we accomplish this important mission. None of this would be possible if we didn’t have an army of prayer warriors–you!

PARTNER

LIKE GIVE VISIT

Join our monthly giving program- ZOE’s Freedom Partners! Our monthly donors are a group of people who are passionate about sharing the gospel worldwide and sending hope to children that are rescued from human trafficking.

Subscribe, follow, and like us on social media. On there, you’ll find updates, inspirational stories, and ways you can get involved!

Our work to reach every person with God’s love and rescue children from human trafficking is not possible without your support. Every gift matters and 100% of your gift will go directly to transform lives.