I have been collaborating with PVF by assisting with marketing, fundraising, public relations, and events. I am passionate about PVF's open sourced, collaborative approach to closing the Inequality Gap. This process is exemplified through our partnership with Not for Sale and MISSSEY, at the Invention Hub in San Francisco.

San Francisco ranks #3 in the US for human exploitation and trafficking, which is most directly correlated to poverty and the ever-widening Inequality Gap. Not for Sale has helped fight human trafficking globally and is focusing its latest campaign locally through a work readiness training program for Oakland survivors of child sexual exploitation, ages 18-25. The training consists of a three-week life skills training, which includes motivational speakers, resume support, bank account setup, a professional makeover, and more. After this training, they participate in paid internships in the service industry, such as at the Zynga cafeteria and Dignita caf�, which have the potential to turn into long-term employment.

On September 25th, these courageous women graduated from the program. To see their transformation from day one to graduation was nothing short of inspiring. One graduate stated, "I used to not know what a CEO was. Now, I want to be one." I feel transformed after being part of this journey and look forward to keeping track of their progress. There was not a dry eye in the room as each graduate shared their stories of struggle and hope for the future. Some never thought they would survive or have the support to "get out." Mothers and significant others also spoke and shared their tears and appreciation for the positive influence and support from all of us to change these women's lives. It was such a powerful, raw, emotional, and joyful afternoon.

I also offered support to Venus Rodriguez, the project's leader, by coordinating affordable tattoo removal services. Women forced into prostitution are often branded in conspicuous locations with their pimp's name, and they are unable to both emotionally and professionally move forward without it being removed. 

Tattoo removal takes approximately 10-12 sessions and costs thousands of dollars. Margaret Mitchell, the co-founder of Epicenter MedSpa in Union Square and her co-founder Dr. Bittner were so touched by this initiative that they have signed on to remove all branding tattoos of women who participate in the program.