ARLINGTON, Va. – The Wireless Infrastructure Association (WIA) Foundation today announced a donation of $10,000 to the Telecommunications Against Trafficking and Exploitation (TATE) initiative. This contribution underscores the wireless infrastructure industry’s commitment to addressing the critical issue of human trafficking, which affects an estimated 27.6 million people worldwide.
“Telecom touches every corner of our world — from cities to rural towns, and every place in between,” said Amy Jo Samuel, Chair of the WIA Foundation Board. “Through TATE, we have a powerful chance to turn that reach into a resource that can make a meaningful difference in the battle against human trafficking.”
Human trafficking is often an underreported crime, hidden in plain sight. Simple awareness and a willingness to report suspicious activity can make a significant difference. The TATE initiative equips telecom workers with the necessary information to recognize signs of human trafficking. It features a 30-minute free online training video called Recognize and Notify (RAN), which is designed to educate industry professionals on how to identify and report trafficking incidents.
“We are deeply grateful to the WIA Foundation for their generous support of our TATE program and our mission at 3Strands Global Foundation. This partnership represents more than just funding, it’s a powerful commitment to equipping the telecom industry to recognize and respond to human trafficking,” said Ashlie Bryant, CEO and Founder of 3Strands Global Foundation. “We believe prevention starts with awareness, and that we don’t get anywhere without collaboration. Together, we’re creating a safer future by raising awareness, training frontline workers, and ultimately disrupting exploitation.”
The training includes an introduction to the TATE initiative, lessons on recognizing human trafficking, and instructions on notifying the proper authorities. TATE is an initiative of the 3Strands Global Foundation, which mobilizes communities to combat human trafficking through prevention, education, and reintegration programs.
To participate in the free training or for additional information, access the portal at www.3sgf.org/tate.
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The WIA Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit dedicated to advancing the wireless industry by encouraging and promoting education, research, and training programs. In addition to offering support for charitable organizations whose missions align with the needs of the wireless infrastructure industry, the WIA Foundation supports efforts to raise awareness about careers in the wireless and broadband industries and activities to enable a strong workforce necessary to achieve WIA’s mission of achieving connectivity everywhere. The Foundation’s board members govern the organization’s efforts and initiatives.
About 3Strands Global Foundation
3Strands Global Foundation is a non-profit organization working towards a world free from human trafficking. Through their PROTECT prevention education program, they have educated millions of students on how to stay safe from human trafficking and exploitation. Their Employ + Empower program has provided support and economic empowerment for over 1,000 survivors. Visit their website at 3SGF.org to learn more about their mission and how you can help.
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