Spotlight: Polaris Project
The Polaris Project is a nonprofit organization that works to combat human trafficking and modern-day slavery.
They operate both domestically and internationally, and their efforts include preventing trafficking, protecting victims, and pursuing traffickers through a variety of means such as public awareness campaigns, policy advocacy, and direct services for victims.
The organization was founded in 2002, and is based in Washington, D.C. They are known for their National Human Trafficking Hotline which provides a 24-hour toll-free hotline for victims of human trafficking and the public to report tips and receive services.
Combat human trafficking and modern day slavery
The Polaris Project has accomplished a number of things in its efforts to combat human trafficking and modern-day slavery:
- Operating the National Human Trafficking Hotline, which has received over 500,000 calls and identified over 25,000 potential human trafficking cases since 2007.
- Developing and implementing the “BeFree” textline, which allows victims of human trafficking to reach out for help discreetly.
- Advocating for stronger state and federal laws to combat human trafficking, and assisting in the drafting and passage of several pieces of legislation.
- Providing direct services to victims of human trafficking through their U.S.-based trafficking shelters and community-based services.
- Creating and maintaining the Human Trafficking Knowledge Portal, an online resource center for anti-trafficking professionals and the general public.
Polaris Project has been recognized for their work on human trafficking and has received several awards and honors over the years, including the State Department’s Hero Acting to End Modern-Day Slavery award, and the Presidential Award for Extraordinary Efforts to Combat Trafficking in Persons from the White House.
Donate to Polaris Project on Groundswell.
Spotlight: The Hidden Genius Project
For National Mentoring Month, Groundswell highlights the Hidden Genius Project.
Founded in 2012, the Hidden Genius Project came together when five men sought after higher employment for Black communities by establishing programs that connect the youth with skilled, experienced mentors.
HGP trains and mentors Black male youth in technology creation, entrepreneurship, and leadership skills to transform their lives and communities.
Join us in congratulating and thanking the Hidden Genius Project for the impact they’ve made on communities all across the nation.
Learn more about the Hidden Genius Project programs:
- Intensive Immersion
- Catalyst Programs
- Community Partner
- Youth Education
- Alumni Venture Seed Fund
- Uber Career Prep Program
Envisioning a Future with More Black Entrepreneurs and Technologists
In 2019, the Hidden Genius Project laid out a strategy plan for growth. As a fast-growing, innovative organization, they envisioned themselves becoming the global leader in Black male youth development.
Their plan to become the leading incubator of dynamic young Black male entrepreneurs and technologists has come a long way since launching its flagship program, Intensive Immersion.
With only $1,500 and a staff of volunteers, their organization grew from serving five students in 2012 to 1478 by 2018.
The Hidden Genius Project continues expanding its operation from its roots in Oakland, CA and the Bay Area. By 2025, HGP aims to open the Intensive Immersion program in five more cities, bringing the total to 10 sites.
National Mentoring Month
Since January is National Mentoring Month, a nationally recognized time to spread awareness about the importance of mentoring, we’re showcasing the positive impact nonprofits like the Hidden Genius Project have on the lives of people.
In addition to raising awareness, this month is also a time to help inspire and motivate people to become mentors, especially for younger generations. It is also a time to create or support existing mentorship programs at companies and other organizations.
Donate to the Hidden Genius Project on the Groundswell app.
Follow The Hidden Genius Project on social media: