Spring 2024 Freedom Newsletter

A Personal Letter from ZOE’s Assistant Western Regional Director to You!

Dear Friend,

During our time in Thailand, we witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of child trafficking on innocent children. Our hearts were broken. Yet, we also saw glimmers of hope as these survivors found refuge, healing, and restoration through ZOE’s compassionate care.

As a donor and prayer partner, you are the heart of the transformative work we do at ZOE International. In my role as the Assistant Western Regional Director at ZOE International, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the impact of your support firsthand, particularly through our Advocacy Program and ZOE’s Home for Youth in Los Angeles County. Your generosity has enabled us to provide vital care and support over the years to so many vulnerable youth. Thank you.

My journey with ZOE began over a decade ago when my husband (a pastor) and I visited ZOE Thailand in 2010. There we met Mike and Carol Hart, the Founders of ZOE, and were deeply moved by their unwavering commitment to God and their profound love for the most vulnerable. Inspired by their vision, we joined ZOE as missionaries in 2011.

During our time in Thailand, we witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of child trafficking on innocent children. Our hearts were broken. Yet, we also saw glimmers of hope as these survivors found refuge, healing, and restoration through ZOE’s compassionate care. One particular moment stands out when my lifelong study of French became a bridge to connect with a young boy at the ZOE Children’s Home in Thailand who wanted to learn French to connect with a father figure in his life, affirming how God uses our experiences and passions to bring healing and love to others.

In my twelve years with ZOE, I have seen countless lives transformed, thanks to your support. Your generosity has enabled us to expand our reach and rescue, restore, and empower more children than ever before. Together, we are making a tangible difference in the fight against child trafficking, one life at a time.

May God bless you abundantly for your kindness and faithfulness.

Ester Yu Assistant Western Regional Director ZOE International

ZOE Partners With Local Churches For Anti-Trafficking Sunday

At ZOE International, our commitment to combating human trafficking begins with prevention and awareness efforts in the local community. We believe that education is the first crucial step in eliminating human trafficking.

Recently, ZOE partnered with local churches in the Santa Clarita Valley (SCV), CA for a significant initiative: SCV Anti-Trafficking Sundays. These Anti-Trafficking Sunday events served as a focal point for local churches and community members to come together, learn, and take action against the grave issue of child trafficking.

Pastor Robert Cavin, from Northpark Community Church in Valencia, CA, shared, “ZOE International is one of the mission organizations that we’ve supported for many years. We are very familiar with ZOE’s work internationally and domestically including their rescue and restoration work with the victims of sex trafficking in LA County and Santa Clarita.”

ZOE’s Assistant Western Regional Director, Ester Yu, shared about an impactful conversation she had after the event. “One church member shared that the exact warning I gave to the church about how boys are being targeted by predators happened to their family friend…a boy thought he was communicating with a female peer and sent compromising images to her, but instead it was a male predator who was blackmailing him. Thankfully he told his family and they were able to intervene. And that’s what’s important, that our children know, no matter what they have done or think they have done, they have a safe adult they can tell to help them. There is always a way out.”

Thanks to you, we’re making strides towards a future where innocence is protected. We believe that the Body of Christ carries the answer inside us for every crisis on earth.

If you are interested in having ZOE speak about human trafficking at your church, bible study or have an information table, use the QR code.

We are grateful for the support of the churches in Santa Clarita, California, that participated in Anti-Trafficking Sunday. We deeply appreciate their commitment to a unified voice in speaking out for vulnerable youth. Crossroads Community Church Valencia Hills Community Church The Sanctuary Church Northpark Community Church

Heart of the Canyons Higher Vision Church

ZOE Home for Youth Update

April 25, 2024 @ 7:00 pm

Since opening in 2021, your support has helped us create a safe space for young survivors. Join us to hear updates, success stories, and future plans for ZHY. Your participation is invaluable as we bring hope and restoration to survivors of human trafficking. Register Today using the QR code!

Teen Girls are Thriving at ZOE’s Home for Youth in Los Angeles!

At ZOE, we’re dedicated to nurturing the interests and talents of the youth in our care. When they arrive at our home, often after experiencing unimaginable hardships, we strive to create a safe and stable environment where they can begin to explore their passions.

Recently, one of the youth at our ZOE Los Angeles home shared her interest in mechanics. Thanks to our partnerships with a community partner, a local church, and a nearby business, she is embarking on a paid internship at an auto

body shop this week! This opportunity not only provides practical skills but also instills hope and a clear vision for her future. Your support makes life-changing moments like these possible. Thank you for being a part of our mission to empower and uplift these resilient young individuals!

Want to get involved? We’re looking for business owners with unique careers who are willing to provide internships for the girls at the ZOE Home for Youth in Los Angeles! Contact Ester Yu at ester@gozoe.org.

Your Impact at Work

California State-Wide Human Trafficking Effort: Operation Reclaim and Rebuild

An Update from David Cox, ZOE International COO

As ZOE International’s Chief Operating Officer, with over 30 years of law enforcement experience, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of ZOE’s work. ZOE is an active member of local task forces in every country we operate in, collaborating seamlessly with law enforcement, social workers, and various government and community agencies while remaining steadfast on the front lines.

Recently, ZOE participated in a week-long, state-wide human trafficking effort in California called Operation Reclaim and Rebuild The impact achieved, fueled by supporters like you, speaks volumes:

• 11 sexually exploited children rescued

• 54 adults rescued

• 40 suspected traffickers arrested

• 271 sex buyers apprehended

• 539 criminal arrests made

These are not just numbers; they are a testament to your power to effect change. Your support directly fuels these operations, bringing hope to a dark world!

Thank you!

Your Support Empowers Change

Brad Ortenzi Testifies Before the Pennsylvania Senate, Spotlighting Human Trafficking Prevention Efforts

On National Anti-Trafficking Awareness Day, Brad Ortenzi, ZOE’s East Coast Regional Director, had the honor of testifying before nine senators at the Senate Committee Hearing in Pittsburgh, PA.

Brad’s testimony shed light on the critical human trafficking prevention programs established in Berks and Lancaster counties in Pennsylvania. Your support directly fuels initiatives like these, ensuring that our efforts to eradicate human trafficking are both impactful and effective.

I was honored to share the work of ZOE with decision makers of Pennsylvania.

Brad Ortenzi

ZOE East Coast Regional Director

CHILDREN RESCUED in Thailand in 2023

Standing Together:

Your Support Rescued 89 Children in Thailand!

Over our 20 years of work in Thailand, we have been able to build trusted partnerships with law enforcement and government agencies. Because of this, our team is able to work alongside the police to rescue children. Once a child is rescued and placed in our care, our team walks alongside

them. We are with them for every doctor’s examination, every deposition, every interview and we are there in those darkest hours when they cannot sleep and are processing all that has happened to them. Thank you for being in this fight with us to protect the innocence of children.

From Fearful Whimpers to Joyful Laughter:

Witnessing Transformation at ZOE Thailand

At ZOE Thailand, we witness the transformative power of hope and love in the lives of vulnerable children. While some haven’t directly faced trafficking, their circumstances leave them at risk. Others are orphans, without protection.

A recent addition to our ZOE home, a young toddler, quickly showed us the impact a loving family and safe environment can have on a child. Initially, their whimpers during Sunday School were a haunting reminder of past fears. Nestled in a ZOE parent’s lap, it was heartbreaking.

A few months later, at our ZOE family celebration, joy overwhelmed us. The same child now radiated smiles, laughter, and confidence, with a newfound strut. It was a beautiful testament to God’s healing power.

This transformation is possible thanks to donors like you. Your support creates a nurturing environment where these children can heal, grow, and thrive. Thank you for making an eternal difference!

Your Impact in Action: Donor-Fueled Prevention Initiatives Making Waves in Australia!

ZOE Australia is excited to announce the start of production on an innovative new interactive game designed for children. This game is a key component of our ongoing efforts to prevent child trafficking and promote safety among youth.

Scan QR Code to Watch an Overview Video!

Unlike traditional games, this non-competitive experience focuses on teamwork. Players work together to navigate challenges, ensuring that everyone reaches a safe destination. Through game play, children not only have fun but also engage in meaningful conversations and develop important skills related to awareness and decision-making. We believe this game will be enjoyable for children and a valuable tool for promoting safety and empowering young people to make informed choices.

Your Feedback Matters!

Donor Satisfaction Survey Highlights Thank you for taking the time to fill out the survey.

Developed in collaboration with our dedicated social worker, this game is specifically tailored for age 10 to 13-year-olds. It aims to educate and empower them by teaching them to identify safe and unsafe places, recognize trustworthy individuals, and understand where to seek help when needed. Become a

“I’ve had the privilege of visiting the home in Thailand and so grateful for the volunteers and staff that support the children.”

“The level of excellence and professionalism encouraged me to keep supporting ZOE.”

“We all need to protect and support children. Especially those who are most vulnerable. Thank you for being God’s hands and feet in this fallen world.”

“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.”

Do you want to make a difference in the life of a child for eternity? Join our monthly giving program! 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. And, during May 2024, any NEW $100 or more monthly donor who signs up will receive a FREE ZOE End Child Trafficking Hat!

Visit goZOE.org/givetoday to get started today!