Green Bay Reporter

Awaken, a nonprofit organization focused on combating commercial sexual exploitation (CSE), has been making strides in its mission to raise awareness and provide support for survivors. Established in May 2011 in Reno, Nevada, Awaken expanded its operations to Brown County, Wisconsin, in June 2022.

"Awaken acts to transform our community with the ultimate goal of eradicating commercial sexual exploitation (CSE). Our mission is to increase awareness and education around the issue of CSE and to provide healing and restoration for survivors. We aim for the survivors of CSE to be restored to their fullest potential."

The decision to bring Awaken's services to Wisconsin was driven by a gap left when another nonprofit serving this population dissolved post-COVID. "Unfortunately, post-Covid the nonprofit that previously existed specifically serving this population in our area dissolved, therefore leaving a gap in restorative services for survivors of commercial sexual exploitation and sex trafficking," explained an Awaken representative.

The organization offers various services at its Green Bay location. "The location of the Awaken Center is intentionally placed between two bus stops in the heart of industrial Green Bay, making it easily accessible for participants." Services include access to basic needs like showers and food, as well as peer support groups aimed at building trust and providing psycho-educational classes.

Awaken also conducts outreach programs within Brown County Jail. Their efforts include connecting participants with resources upon release and helping them develop re-entry plans. Education remains a key focus for Awaken; they conducted approximately 61 training sessions in 2024 alone.

"The journey has been one of passion, challenges, and resilience," shared a founder about their experience leading the nonprofit. Despite financial challenges common among nonprofits relying on grants and donations, there have been rewarding moments such as seeing lives change through community efforts.

Looking ahead, Awaken aims to introduce new initiatives focused on prevention and empowerment. The organization plans to announce further developments during their 2025 Benefit Concert scheduled for May 15th.

Community members can support Awaken through volunteering, participating in events, donating funds or engaging professionally with the cause: "Getting involved with Awaken is a powerful way to support survivors of commercial sexual exploitation (CSE) and help prevent trafficking in our community."