Program Objectives

• Understanding Human Trafficking: defining it, exploring its different forms (sex and labor trafficking), and understanding the underlying factors that contribute to this serious crime.
• Identifying Red Flags: Learning how to recognize the warning signs of human trafficking, both online and offline.
• Protecting Our Youth: Discussing strategies to empower young people to make informed decisions and stay safe.
• Sharing Resources and Support: Learning more about available resources for victims, survivors, and those seeking help.

Call to Action

Human trafficking is an overwhelming, global issue, but by working together, we can make a difference in each of our communities. You may be wondering what you can do. Here are a few steps you can take:

• Stay informed: Subscribe to reputable sources for updates on human trafficking prevention and resources.
• Spread awareness: Share what you learned today with your family, friends, and colleagues. The more people who understand the signs, the more empowered we are to identify and report potential cases.
• Know the resources: Keep the hotlines and support organizations we will share in the chat readily available. If you suspect trafficking, don't hesitate to report it.
• Human Trafficking Awareness Month is in January so please share in your communities and schools.

Additional Resources

Human Trafficking Hotline

Texas Human Trafficking Resource Center

Human Trafficking in Texas

Human Trafficking of School-aged Children

January is Human Trafficking Prevention Month

Meet the Panelists

Jennifer Biundo
Senior Director of Policy and Data - Healthy Futures of Texas

Jen Biundo is the Senior Director of Policy and Research for Healthy Futures of Texas, where she works to support access to sexual health information and services for Texas youth. She earned her master’s degree in Public Affairs from the LBJ School of Public Affairs at the University of Texas at Austin, and holds a Certification in Public Health. She previously served as an analyst on the Texas Legislative Budget Board, working on public health and public education policy. She's the proud mom of two school-aged boys, including a high schooler who kind of wishes his mom had a normal job that didn't involve sex education.

Alicia Bush
CEO - Treasured Vessels Foundation

Alicia Bush is the founder and executive director of Treasured Vessels Foundation, an anti-trafficking nonprofit based in Frisco, Texas, focused on restoring survivors of sexual exploitation. With over 20 years of experience as a business and church leader, she felt called to launch a safe house for survivors. Alicia is an active advocate in the anti-trafficking community, a business owner, and author. She and her husband have five children, and she holds a BA in Psychology from the University of North Texas.

Dr. Stephanie Cook
Managing Director of Guidance and Social Services - Frisco ISD

Dr. Cook currently serves as a Managing Director in Frisco ISD. Previously, she held leadership roles in Irving ISD and Grapevine-Colleyville ISD. She has been instrumental in implementing multiple state-level bills related to school safety and counseling services. With her experience as a therapist, school professional, and adjunct professor, Dr. Cook brings expertise in adolescent development, school safety, and school counseling. She has also served on various boards and leadership roles in the education and counseling fields.

Joseph Scaramucci
Director of Law Enforcement Training and Operations - Skull Games Inc.

Joseph Scaramucci is the Director of Law Enforcement Training and Operations at Skull Games.  He is a veteran law enforcement officer who has specialized in human trafficking for over a decade. He's led numerous sting operations, resulting in hundreds of arrests and the rescue of trafficking victims. With expertise in human trafficking investigations, he's advised law enforcement agencies worldwide and contributed to legislative efforts to combat this heinous crime. As a Task Force Officer with Homeland Security Investigations, he's conducted investigations and arrests throughout the U.S. He's also a certified Subject Matter Expert in Human Trafficking and has provided training and technical assistance to law enforcement agencies in the U.S. and abroad.

If you have questions, please reach out to us at programs@txpta.org.