Human trafficking, a modern form of slavery, devastates countless lives worldwide, including in rural areas like North Dakota. The 31:8 Project is at the forefront of combating this issue by raising awareness, educating communities, and supporting survivors.
Founded by Stacy Schaffer, the 31:8 Project aims to illuminate the realities of human trafficking through education and advocacy. The name derives from Proverbs 31:8, which calls for speaking out for those who cannot.
Schaffer's passion for the cause began during her studies at the University of Mary in Bismarck, North Dakota, and evolved into a robust initiative that has reached thousands across the state and beyond.
Community Education: The 31:8 Project organizes workshops and seminars to educate communities about the signs and risks of human trafficking. This is crucial in rural areas where awareness is limited.
Support for Survivors: Beyond awareness, the organization provides resources and support to trafficking survivors, helping them rebuild their lives.
Collaborations: The project works with law enforcement, schools, and healthcare professionals to identify victims and prevent trafficking. Such partnerships ensure a united front against this crime.
Public Campaigns: By sharing stories and statistics, the project sheds light on the prevalence of trafficking in North Dakota, where 760 victims have been reported since 2016.
The 31:8 Project has profoundly influenced public understanding of human trafficking, equipping communities with tools to recognize and combat this crime. As awareness grows, so does the collective ability to protect vulnerable populations and support survivors.
By fostering awareness and mobilizing action, the 31:8 Project stands as a vital force in the fight against human trafficking. Their dedication reminds us that awareness is the first step toward change—and that every voice matters in this fight for freedom.
The 5th Annual Bakken Human Trafficking Summit will focus on a variety of topics related to sex and labor trafficking, sexual exploitation, and more. This event, organized by North Dakota-based nonprofit 31:8 Project, features several keynotes, breakout sessions, and panel discussions to better inform the community about sex and labor trafficking in Western North Dakota. Our event speakers will include: law enforcement, healthcare professionals, human service representatives, and survivors of human trafficking.
The event takes place on May 20-21 in Bismarck, ND with the location TBD. Breakfast and snacks will be provided. Attendees will have a mid-day break for lunch.
Continuing Education credit and hours available for professionals attending the Bakken Human Trafficking Summit. This event is open to the public. Due to the sensitive nature of the topic, discretion is advised. Scholarships are available.
E-mail programs@318project.org to learn more about scholarship ticket availability.
Medical professionals, faith groups, law enforcement, human service providers, hospitality workers, business owners, parents/guardians, educators, service clubs, government officials, and other community groups are invited to attend as we work together to learn about the issues facing the region and the action steps we can take moving forward.
Attending the Bakken Human Trafficking Conference offers significant benefits for enhancing the communities of North Dakota by equipping participants with critical knowledge and actionable strategies to combat this pervasive issue. Such a conference provides a platform for community leaders, policymakers, law enforcement, educators, and concerned citizens to learn about the latest trends, prevention measures, and survivor support systems.
“By fostering collaboration and sharing best practices, attendees can build stronger networks and develop community-specific solutions,” Schaffer said. “This enhances public safety, raises awareness, and strengthens resilience against exploitation, ultimately leading to healthier, more informed, and united communities throughout North Dakota.”
About Stacy: She is the Founder and Executive Director of 31:8 Project. She has based her work in advocacy on the ideal that no one person can do everything, but everyone can do something. Stacy is the coordinator for the Demand Reduction Program and an adjunct professor at the University of Mary in Bismarck, ND.
She currently serves as a board member of the North Dakota Association of Nonprofit Organizations, committee member of the North Dakota Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Task Force and member of the Farwest Rotary Club. With a passion towards serving others, Stacy has dedicated much of her time advocating for human rights. This pursuit has influenced her education, career, and community work.
Stacy graduated with a Master's Degree in Public Administration from Hamline University in St. Paul, MN. Prior, she received her Bachelor's Degree in Social Behavioral Sciences from the University of Mary.
In 2011, she was crowned Miss ND International and represented a platform on combating human trafficking. She launched 31:8 Project in 2015 to rally the general public to "speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves.”
Stacy was awarded the ND Emerging Leader Award for her work in the non-profit sector and was selected as one of the Bismarck Tribune's “20 Under 40”. Stacy was the 2018 University of Mary Bell Banner Alumni of the Year, and has been recognized as one of Bismarck's Hidden Hometown Heroes.
Stacy often credits her motivation, work ethic, and determination from growing up on a farm near the town of Wishek, ND. Stacy hopes to inspire individuals across the state to join 31:8 Project on the journey to help end modern day slavery, starting right here in North Dakota.
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