On January 30, 2026, Prism Project stood in solidarity with the Genesee County Human Trafficking Task Force at the annual Light Up the Night candlelight vigil in the lobby of the Genesee County Jail — an evening of remembrance, honor, and collective resolve in the fight against human trafficking and sexual exploitation. The vigil brought together community members, advocates, survivors, and leaders under the soft glow of candlelight to recognize both the lives lost, the resilience of those who continue to survive and heal, and those still at risk or impacted by human trafficking.
As we gathered, the air was heavy with reflection and hope. Many shared stories, held candles, and listened as speakers reminded us that human trafficking is not an abstract issue; it’s happening in our schools, in our neighborhoods, and within reach of people we care about. Director of Finance, Ashley Chandler, noted that the vulnerabilities of runaway and AWOL youth contribute to risk — often within just 24 hours — underscoring the urgency of attentive, coordinated action. She urged that as individuals and a collective community, we must continue identifying gaps and make steps to create real world solutions.
At Prism Project, our mission aligns deeply with the purpose of this vigil. Every day we walk alongside girls ages 12–17 who have experienced exploitation: offering therapy, education, medical care, life skills, and spiritual care in a nurturing, long-term environment. Our work is grounded in advocacy — it’s not about assigning blame, but about identifying the gaps in systems meant to protect children and working collaboratively to fill them. Through partnership and advocacy, we support policy change and system responses that keep youth safe and empower them toward healing.
The candlelight vigil served as a sacred space — a place for remembrance, for resolve, and a call for accountability. It was also a powerful declaration that we will not look away. When systems work together — from grassroots organizations to law enforcement and policymakers — lives are saved and voices are amplified.
We are grateful to the Genesee County Human Trafficking Task Force, to local leaders, and to the incredibly compassionate community that stood with us that evening. May these candles be symbols not just of remembrance, but also of the ongoing commitment to awareness, action, and hope.