New Leadership Team at OUR RESCUE Aims to Enhance Global Mission Against Trafficking

OUR RESCUE Unveils New Leadership Team

In a significant move to further its global mission against human trafficking and child exploitation, OUR RESCUE has announced the appointment of seven new leaders, including notable figures from law enforcement and the nonprofit sector. With a pressing need for enhanced survivor support and international operations, this leadership reshuffle is set to strengthen the organization's outreach and effectiveness in combating these grave issues.

Derek Benner, formerly the head of Homeland Security Investigations, has been named the Chief Mission Officer. In this pivotal role, Benner will oversee mission operations and survivor care, drawing on his extensive 30-year experience in federal law enforcement. His leadership was instrumental in overseeing thousands of law enforcement personnel and establishing the DHS Center for Countering Human Trafficking, showcasing his commitment to eradicating human trafficking.

"I’m thrilled to leverage my background in law enforcement to advance OUR RESCUE’s initiatives," stated Benner. He emphasized the importance of strong partnerships to effectively reach and assist survivors of trafficking.

Joining Benner is Mitch Abrahamsen, who transitions from his interim role as Chief Operating Officer to the expanded role of Chief of Mission Support. Abrahamsen's expertise in global operations will help streamline efforts in finance, education, and e-commerce, ultimately enhancing the organization’s mission delivery.

Renata Parras takes on the role of General Counsel and Senior Vice President of Strategic Partnerships. Her robust background in human rights and public policy will be pivotal in shaping strategic alliances with various stakeholders to bolster OUR RESCUE’s efforts.

John Trenary has been appointed Vice President of Mission for Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Trenary’s legal and law enforcement experience will be critical as he leads the expansion of the organization’s mission operations within these diverse regions.

The marketing and communications strategy will be headed by Janeen Vogelaar and Kelly Puspoki, who bring valuable experience in brand storytelling and strategic communication. Their roles will ensure that OUR RESCUE’s message reaches a wider audience, driving engagement and awareness of human trafficking issues.

Jeff Bird, a seasoned nonprofit leader, completes the leadership lineup as Vice President of Advancement, focusing on the organization’s fundraising and outreach initiatives.

CEO Tammy Lee articulated the urgency of their mission, stating that child sexual exploitation reports have surged, revealing an alarming 12% increase to over 36.2 million reports nationwide in recent years. "These crimes occur in plain sight, leading to immense profits for traffickers. Our organization is committed to not only supporting survivors but also to ending these horrific crimes at their source," she asserted.

This revamped leadership team at OUR RESCUE positions the organization to tackle the pervasive challenges of human trafficking more effectively than ever before. With their combined expertise, the team is poised to foster greater global collaboration, as they work tirelessly toward a world where every child can live free from fear and exploitation.

Founded in 2013 and headquartered in Minneapolis, OUR RESCUE has been at the forefront of the fight against human trafficking, striving to empower survivors and ensure their needs are met comprehensively. Through education, prevention initiatives, and crucial partnerships with law enforcement, the organization remains steadfast in its mission to end these heinous crimes.