DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - The City of Decatur has been certified as a Partner in Peace for taking a proactive stance in fighting human trafficking.
City employees completed the Center for Prevention of Abuse's one-hour training course which focused on understanding human trafficking, identifying potential warning signs, and learning how to safely report suspected situations.
CFPA will present the City of Decatur with a Partner in Peace certification at the Monday, May 18, City Council meeting.
“City of Decatur employees are in the community every day, and all of us – not solely our police officers – can help protect residents and prevent human trafficking,” said Decatur City Manager Melissa Hon. “This partnership with the Center for Prevention of Abuse demonstrates the City’s commitment to education, awareness, and prevention when it comes to human trafficking and exploitation.”
CFPA is a trauma informed, victim-centered service provider, caring for survivors of human trafficking and also training and certifying organizations, municipalities, and other levels of government as Partners in Peace.
The nonprofit agency, headquartered in Peoria, IL, offers specialized training for all city staff, first responders, hospitality workers, victim service providers, faith communities, Rotary and Kiwanis clubs, students and educators, skilled trades workers, and more.
“Human trafficking prevention depends on strong partnerships and informed communities,” said Carol Merna, CEO of the Center for Prevention of Abuse. “We appreciate the City of Decatur’s leadership in making this training a priority for all employees. When more people understand the warning signs and know how to respond safely, communities become better equipped to protect those who may be at risk.”
City employees received visor cards for City vehicles with quick-reference information on common indicators of trafficking and guidance on how to report suspicious activity. The City also created a public webpage to make it easy to report suspicion of human trafficking.
Tips and other information can also be sent to the Illinois Trafficking Enforcement Group (ITEG) by emailing ITEG@illinois.gov.
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