Speaker: Shelbie Wiley of Engaging Minds Services
Cobi Williams introduced our speaker, Shelbie Wiley, Executive Director and CEO of Engaging Minds Services. The purpose of the organization is to provide hope and empowerment to those impacted by abuse, especially the victims of human trafficking. Shelbie is also a Member of the SC Human Trafficking Task Force.
It is estimated that the number of individuals that are subject to commercial sexual exploitation exceeds 250,000 each year in the US. Shelbie told several actual human trafficking stories to illustrate the difficult situations victims find themselves. The Engaging Minds staff provide a full range of support services to the victims including basic counseling, trauma informed counseling/care, medical, dental, job readiness training, adult education, clothing, haircare, and makeup. Engaging Minds partners with many organizations such as HGTC which provides scholarships, computer access, supplies, and interns. G.K. Vereen Boutique provides outfits for job interviews and special functions.
Engaging Minds is now focused on raising funds through corporate sponsorships to help renovate and build housing for human trafficking victims. Their current project is to convert a former nursing home into a 20-room safe house.
Engaging Minds Services is looking for volunteers and donations. Shelbie can be contacted by email at swiley@engagingmindservices.org or called on (843) 360 4490. Call the National Human Trafficking Hotline to report information concerning human trafficking 1 (888) 373 7888.
