Questions and Answers with the Defender Foundation

I. What is The Defender Foundation?

We are a not for profit 501(c)3, Non‐Governmental Organization (NGO) formed to fight human trafficking. 

II. What is an NGO?

A non-governmental organization (NGO) is any non-profit, voluntary citizens' group which is organized on a local, national or international level. Task-oriented and driven by people with a common interest, NGOs perform a variety of service and humanitarian functions, bring citizen concerns to Governments, advocate and monitor policies and encourage political participation through provision of information. Some are organized around specific issues, such as human rights, environment or health. They provide analysis and expertise, serve as early warning mechanisms and help monitor and implement international agreements. 

Defender's "common interest" is to eradicate Human Trafficking by:

Raising Awareness
Providing Resources for Victims
Retrieving Victims

Delivering Victims to Safe Housing and Provide Continuing Care
Assisting with the Arrest and Prosecution of Human Trafficking Criminals

III. Who Created The Defender Foundation?

Dan Benedict and 5 other initial board members.
Our board has a varied background to include ex-military and ex-law enforcement, ministry, practicing psychologist specializing in abuse victims and post graduate students majoring in Counseling..

Any agency or NGO wanting to work with or partner with The Defender Foundation, Inc. can inquire through our Open Book Policy as to the full backgrounds of the board members and their qualifications.

IV. Why was the Foundation formed?

We found out about the problem.
We were inspired by the actions of others.
We found out that the problem is here in our own backyard.
We knew that being a bystander was not an option.

V. What is the purpose or goal of Defender?

To be an advocate in every sense of the word.
Prevent
Provide
Raise Awareness
Prosecute
AND
To support other NGOs and Agencies involved in Human Trafficking.

                   Prevent.

Educating organizations, ministries and education systems who have local and/or overseas impact. These organizations will educate the sources where victims are cultivated.

                     Provide.

24 hour Victim Transport and Tip Line for Victims, Statewide.
Statewide Pickup Service.
Plug the victims in with care provider agencies, Law Enforcement and follow up services.
Raise Awareness.
Written and visual media.
Support of other NGOs.
Education of membership base as they become force multipliers.

                   Prosecute.

Our goal is that every rescue, results in a prosecution.
We will alert all relevant law enforcement agencies and work with the victims' in securing their testimonies, to result in prosecution of Human Traffickers and those that would buy, sell or sexually exploit the victims.

                 Support other NGO's.