January 14, 2022 9:40 a.m.

On Wednesday, Douglas County Commissioners issued a proclamation in honor of Human Trafficking Prevention Month, during their weekly business meeting.

A release said the proclamation was issued to bring awareness that human trafficking is a modern form of slavery, and to support the efforts of local agencies who work to provide education, local trainings to first responders, law enforcement and medical students; legislative advocacy and to help to address and facilitate the complex needs of local survivors.

Certifications of appreciation were presented to:

*Marion Pearson, Coordinator of the Douglas County Human Trafficking Task Force, Up2UsNow Child Abuse Prevention Coalition, and Mercy Foundation

*Sarah Wickersham, Director of Douglas CARES

*Nicole Rodriguez, Director of Sexual Assault Services at Peace at Home

*Juliana Marez McKinney, Vento Liaison for Roseburg School District

*Grace Farenbaugh, President, Zonta of Roseburg

The Douglas County Human Trafficking Task Force is made up of over 15 partners.