Today we’d like to introduce you to Stephany Powell.
Stephany, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I am a thirty year veteran of the Los Angeles Police Department. I left as a sergeant in charge of the vice unit, the vice unit deals with the crime of prostitution, and oversight of Alcohol Beverage Control establishments
As a vice sergeant, I learned early on that the crime of prostitution did not always involve choice and in some cases, services not incarceration was the answer. When I retired, the organization that I used as a resource (The Mary Madeline Project) I now lead (Journey Out, formerly known as the Mary Madeline Project). Journey Out assist victims of human trafficking.
I am a Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I have encountered numerous obstacles and challenges as an African American women in the Los Angeles Police Department, but what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.
It was through that strength and support that I received within the Department that continues today, helps to make Journey Out a strong organization in the fight against human trafficking.
The initial challenge was getting the public to understand that adult victims of human trafficking need resources just like the minors.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Journey Out – what should we know?
Journey Out assist victims of human trafficking in their journey out of a life of abuse and violence. We meet our clients where they are. Journey Out has served adult clientele for over 34 years.
We are proud to say that in the last four years we have serviced over two hundred people each year. The two hundred people a year that we service we actually give direct service, not just a phone call and a warm hand over.
We work closely with the Los Angeles Police Department as well as Departments in nearby cities to provide services while law enforcement conducts their investigations.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
My education, personal strength, integrity and love for people.
Contact Info:
- Address: 7136 Haskell Ave. Van Nuys, Ca.
- Website: www.journeyout.org
- Phone: 818 988-4970
- Email: [email protected]
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