PALM BEACH, Fla. — The Florida Alliance to End Human Trafficking hosted its annual A Night of Hope and Healing Event on May 15, 2026, at the historic Henry Morrison Flagler Museum, bringing together state leaders, advocates, and community members committed to ending human trafficking.

The evening highlighted the ongoing fight against human trafficking in Florida, which continues to rank second in the nation for calls to the National HumanTrafficking Hotline. With more than 2,200 victims identified in 2025 alone, leaders emphasized the urgency of continued awareness, prevention, and survivor support efforts.

Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier delivered the keynote address, underscoring the importance of collaboration between law enforcement, policymakers, and the public.

Human trafficking thrives in the shadows, but together we are bringing it into the light,” said Attorney General Uthmeier.Florida is committed toleading the way in protecting victims, holding traffickers accountable, and ensuring that survivors have the support they need to rebuild their lives.”

The annual fundraiser supports the Florida Alliance’s statewide awareness initiatives, education programs, and innovative technology grants that assist law enforcement in identifying and rescuing victims.

“This evening is about more than awareness—it’s about action,” said Erin Collins, Executive Director of the Florida Alliance to End HumanTrafficking. “Every dollar raised, every partnership formed, and every story shared moves us closer to a Floridawhere exploitation has no place. We are deeply grateful to the community members, sponsors, and advocates who stand with us in this fight.”

Honoring Hope: 2026 Hope Award Recipients
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the annual Hope Awards, recognizing individuals and programs that have demonstrated a consistent and inspiring message of hope tosurvivors of trauma and exploitation. These awards honor those who selflessly dedicate their time and talents tosupporting individuals impacted by human trafficking.

Through the Hope Awards, the FloridaAlliance celebrated the everyday heroes across Florida who are working tirelessly to uplift survivors and help bring an endto human trafficking in the state.
2026 Hope Award Recipients:

  • Trailblazer Award – Kyle and Tiffany Greene of Kyle G’s Restaurants
  • Unsung Hero Award – Rita Peters, Special Counsel in the Office of the Florida Attorney General

Continuing the Mission
As a nonprofit organization created by the Florida Legislature in 2019, the Florida Alliance to End HumanTrafficking serves as the direct support organization to the Statewide Council on Human Trafficking. The Alliance provides critical funding, resources, and strategic support to strengthen prevention, awareness, and survivor recovery efforts across Florida.

Florida Alliance Immediate Past Chair Ellyn Bogdanoff and Florida Alliance Event Chair Maggie Overdorf
Florida Alliance Immediate Past Chair Ellyn Bogdanoff and Florida Alliance Event Chair Maggie Overdorf
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