Beauty With Purpose at the Restoring Oaks Fundraiser Gala in Charlotte County, Florida
The Restoring Oaks 3rd Annual Fundraiser Gala in Charlotte County, Florida was more than just an event. It was a powerful reflection of what happens when human trafficking awareness, community action, and faith-based advocacy come together with a shared purpose.
I have been familiar with Restoring Oaks since its conception and have had the privilege of watching it grow from intimate gatherings of just fifteen people into a faith-based nonprofit organization that now reaches hundreds. Witnessing that growth firsthand at this year’s Restoring Oaks Fundraiser Gala was deeply moving and affirmed the urgency and importance of the mission to protect and restore survivors of human trafficking.
A Licensed Cosmetologist’s Role in Human Trafficking Awareness
My connection to human trafficking awareness began long before this gala. As a licensed cosmetologist in Florida, I created a human trafficking education course that was approved by the Florida Board of Cosmetology for continuing education credits. I believe it is vital for beauty professionals to understand this crime, as we are in a unique position to notice early warning signs when someone sits in our chair. Often, these moments take place in environments of vulnerability, trust, and conversation.
That passion led me to approach the Attorney General’s office in our district to participate in a task force focused on education and community awareness. When Restoring Oaks later connected with the Attorney General’s office, I was asked if I was familiar with the organization. The answer was an immediate yes. When I connected with the founder, there was instant alignment, and we began working together with a shared purpose to protect, restore, and bring hope to survivors.
Event Hair and Makeup as a Tool for Healing
As a beauty professional, I knew I could serve in a tangible way. I offered to provide free event hair and makeup services to any survivor who felt ready and willing to share her story publicly. While beauty services may seem simple, when paired with dignity, compassion, and choice, they become a powerful form of empowerment.
My goal was never just external transformation, but to offer beauty with purpose. I wanted each woman to feel seen, affirmed, and confident as she stepped into visibility and reclaimed her voice. In moments like these, professional hair and makeup become more than aesthetics. They become part of a healing journey rooted in courage, identity, and restoration.
Why Human Trafficking Awareness Matters in Florida
Human trafficking is currently the third largest crime in the United States, and Florida’s geography makes it especially vulnerable due to three-way access by boat, plane, and automobile. Organizations like Restoring Oaks are committed to educating communities about what to watch for in everyday environments, including neighborhoods, schools, bus stops, hotels, restaurants, cleaning services, and landscaping crews.
With the rise of social media and online platforms, trafficking methods have become more complex and hidden than ever before. This makes education, awareness, and prevention critical for families, professionals, and communities alike.
A Community United for Restoration
Watching Restoring Oaks grow and witnessing the turnout at this year’s fundraiser gala in Charlotte County, Florida was a powerful reminder that awareness leads to action. When communities are informed, they become protective. When survivors are seen, they are strengthened.
This event was not just a fundraiser. It was a declaration that restoration is possible, healing is real, and together, we can be part of the solution.
