AHLA Foundation's NRFT Summit: Uniting for Human Trafficking Solutions

A Powerful Gathering to Fight Human Trafficking

On July 30, 2025, the AHLA Foundation brought together survivors, industry experts, and hotel executives at the annual No Room for Trafficking (NRFT) Summit in Washington. This event was aimed at uniting the hospitality sector to collaboratively combat human trafficking. The summit's timing was significant; it coincided with the United Nations' World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, reinforcing the urgency of this global crisis.

Kevin Carey, the President and CEO of the AHLA Foundation, emphasized the importance of the summit in a world increasingly aware of human trafficking issues. "For years, the No Room for Trafficking initiative has leveraged our resources to unite the hotel industry against human trafficking. This summit serves as a call to action, bringing together the industry and our partners to drive meaningful change."

Focus on Collaboration and Support

Throughout the summit, various keynote speakers and panel discussions highlighted the complexities of survivor support and employment. Insights from those with lived experiences strengthened the discourse, revealing the critical need for collaboration among stakeholders in the industry to build awareness and promote effective prevention strategies.

In a significant development, the AHLA Foundation announced the recipients of the 2025-2026 NRFT Survivor Fund grants, which provide financial assistance to organizations dedicated to aiding survivors on their journey to recovery and empowerment. Since its inception in 2023, the Survivor Fund has awarded over $2.35 million to support 27 organizations across the nation. Noteworthy recipients for this year's funding included:

- 3Strands Global Coalition to Abolish Slavery & Trafficking
- Empowered Network
- New Friends New Life
- Rebecca Bender Initiative
- Wellspring Living
- WillowBend Farms

A Commitment to Education and Resources

The AHLA Foundation's efforts are guided by a dedicated NRFT Advisory Council composed of leaders from the hospitality sector who aim to address this pressing issue. Joan Bottarini, CFO at Hyatt and Chair of the NRFT Advisory Council, voiced her support for the organizations receiving the grants, stating, "These organizations are crucial in preventing human trafficking and supporting survivors on their paths forward. Their work is indispensable as we strive for a solution to this crisis."

Exploring new avenues for support, the summit also included discussions on how these organizations can be amplified and strengthened. The collaboration among various stakeholders—including major hotel chains like Hilton and Marriott—demonstrates a unified front against human trafficking, showcasing their commitment to not only combatting the issue but also uplifting survivors and providing them with necessary resources.

Looking Ahead

The NHFT Summit marked another step forward in the fight against human trafficking by fostering partnerships and encouraging collective responsibility within the industry. As the AHLA Foundation progresses, it remains dedicated to fostering environments where industry professionals can learn, grow, and thrive while tackling the issues of trafficking head-on. Individuals and organizations interested in supporting these efforts can find more information about the NRFT initiative and how to contribute at AHLA Foundation's website as they continue to strive for a better future.

In conclusion, the NRFT Summit serves not only as an event to discuss strategies but also as a rallying point for the hospitality industry to solidify its resolve against human trafficking. By uniting survivors, experts, and leaders, the AHLA Foundation is paving the way for impactful changes that resonate beyond the walls of the conference, touching lives and communities across the nation.