2008 Woodie Awards
Psychology sophomore says world with human trafficking 'in desperate need of hope'
New nonprofit organization will work to end suffering caused by human trafficking, sex and labor slavery.
By Stephanie Mikneus
Issue date: 4/4/08 Section: Features
Originally published: 4/3/08 at 2:48 PM CSTLast update: 4/3/08 at 7:14 PM CST
The center works with students who may be experiencing relationship issues with family, friends or employers; students who are dealing with depression or with hopelessness, suicidal thoughts or identity struggles; or students who may feel overwhelmed by circumstances in their lives and who don't have a support system to get through the confusion.
Elizabeth Crooks said, "We are available to meet one on one, pray with them, help them connect with community resources as well as connect them with peer care."
The process started last summer when Wayne Crooks left his position as a pastor at Harvest Fellowship Community Church to create a ministry organization for victims of human trafficking and abuse.
In December 2007, the center started under the Bridge of Hope Ministry, which consists of 13 ministries. The Crooks turned their home into the headquarters. Here they give sermons, treat victims and provide information.
The center has worked with abuse and trauma victims, but has not yet worked with a human trafficking victim.
Chris Crooks explained that God had led his family into building the center. They started the process but didn't really know where it would lead. The center is always looking for volunteers and partners from business professionals to students.
People should report suspected cases of human trafficking to the San Antonio police, Chris Crooks said.
For more information, students can contact the Crooks family and the center at 481-3333, or e-mail Wayne and Elizabeth Crooks at wayne@embassyofhopecenter.org and elizabeth@embassyofhopecenter.org.
Elizabeth Crooks said, "We are available to meet one on one, pray with them, help them connect with community resources as well as connect them with peer care."
The process started last summer when Wayne Crooks left his position as a pastor at Harvest Fellowship Community Church to create a ministry organization for victims of human trafficking and abuse.
In December 2007, the center started under the Bridge of Hope Ministry, which consists of 13 ministries. The Crooks turned their home into the headquarters. Here they give sermons, treat victims and provide information.
The center has worked with abuse and trauma victims, but has not yet worked with a human trafficking victim.
Chris Crooks explained that God had led his family into building the center. They started the process but didn't really know where it would lead. The center is always looking for volunteers and partners from business professionals to students.
People should report suspected cases of human trafficking to the San Antonio police, Chris Crooks said.
For more information, students can contact the Crooks family and the center at 481-3333, or e-mail Wayne and Elizabeth Crooks at wayne@embassyofhopecenter.org and elizabeth@embassyofhopecenter.org.
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