According to Shared Hope International, the average age a child enters the sex trafficking industry is 14 to 16, when the child is too young and naive to understand what is happening.
St. George Orthodox Christian Church will hold a Ladies Extravaganza at 5 p.m. May 10 to raise money for Ascent 121, a local organization that provides advocacy and recovery services for teen survivors. It also raises money and awareness about the sex-trafficking industry.
“This is our second year hosting the event,” said Liza Nahas, Church Ministry team member. “Our primary goal was to raise awareness of sex trafficking in central Indiana and what Ascent 121 does. Our second goal was to raise some funds, which we were able to do. Finally, our last goal was to have some fun while doing some good.”
Admission is $30 at the door. The evening includes food, wine, church tours, door prizes, a silent auction, mini manicures, chair massages, skincare tutorials and makeup application. Vendors will sell items such as Bloody Mary mix, clothing, natural skincare products, hand-picked teas, jewelry, tinctures, decor and handbags.
“Guests can get chair massages from Knead Therapy,” Nahas said. “We’ll have some food and live music. It’s just going to be a fun evening for women to come out.”
Local florist Molly and Myrtle will offer a floral arrangement class for an additional $30 fee.
“Guests will learn how to put a beautiful floral arrangement together,” Nahas said. “The fresh blooms and vase will be provided. You do have to register in advance because space is limited.”
Ascent 121 will be on-site to offer additional information about its services. Attendees will be able to write notes of encouragement for victims.
“We had a really great turnout last year,” Nahas said. “We’d really like to exceed that this year. We hope those who attended last year will attend this year but also bring a friend.”
Register at tinyurl.com/ExtravaganzaFishers.