------------------UNDERNEATH THE SURFACE------------------ (Sex Trade Documentary)

Human Trafficking. Human trafficking is a $32 billion business with up to 27 million people enslaved. 800,000 people are trafficked (bought & sold) across international borders each year; 50% of these victims are children; 4 of 5 are female. There are more slaves today then in any other time in history and the U.S. Department of State's Trafficking in Persons Report says that, "sex trafficking comprises a significant portion of overall trafficking and the majority of transnational modern-day slavery…Turning people into dehumanized commodities creates an enabling environment for human trafficking.”

God has put a burning desire in my heart to help children who have been forced into prostitution and other forms of sexual slavery. God has revealed glimpses of what He wants me to do with the rest of my life, and how I can use my passions and gifts to help spread awareness about sex trafficking. As a Cinema & Media Communications major I know that media is a very strong force in shaping lives. I want to use media to make a difference in this world, not only to entertain, but to inform and bring a message of hope.

I have a deep empathy and sorrow for traumatized young girls who have been used as sex slaves. In impoverished countries all over the world young girls are being abandoned and sold by their family members into slavery. These girls are then beaten, gang-raped, and forced to sexually service an average of 30 men a day. They are given little food, and are imprisoned inside dark, dirty, dank rooms. These little girls are being treated worse than animals, and are encaged with no hope of escape. Their only hope is in the form of people with compassionate hearts and voices who will speak out against these atrocities and the people perpetrating them. I am devoting my life in every way possible in order to spread awareness about sex trafficking, and hopefully put an end to it.

I have a wonderful opportunity to learn more about this passion. I am traveling to Cambodia this August as part of my summer internship with Transitions Global. Transitions Global is an organization that rescues girls out of sexual exploitation and gives them a safe shelter, trauma therapy, and teaches them life & job skills so they may succeed in this world.While in Cambodia I will learn more about the sex trade and will work hands on with girls that have been rescued from slavery! As part of my trip I want to start writing and filming my documentary regarding children in the sex trade and also what is being done to help these victims. With this documentary I hope to impact people’s lives with the truth, motivating them to join the fight.

I hope to raise $3,345 for my trip to Phnom Penh, Cambodia this August. $2,780 covers my flight ($1,300), passport fees ($80), room ($400), food and transportation ($1,000) for three weeks. I plan on obtaining an external hard drive ($165) and an upgrade in my computer ($400). I will be borrowing a pro-sumer HD camcorder from my school, normally a $600 purchase. All this will be necessary for filming my documentary, and for teaching the girls cinematography and editing skills.

I understand that with the economy many of us are strapped for cash, so if you can only donate $5 to my cause, know that every bit helps. God’s work isn’t hindered by the recession. If you are unable to donate any money I completely understand, you can still play a big role by praying for me and spreading the word about what I am doing. If you do have the means to help monetarily you can hit the donate button to the right. Thanks for your help in all areas