Amilia’s Light supports programs that are empowering and changing the lives of women who are victims of human trafficking.
The community will gather to help continue Amilia's Light's work at the annual Garden Party on Thursday, May 24, from 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. at the home of the founder and president Michelle Luhrmann, 26 Loeffler Lane in Medfield.
The story of one woman, Jannet, helps exemplify Amilia's Light's mission.
As a young girl with nine siblings in rural Uganda, Jannet’s options were few. Poor farmers, her parents could not afford to provide her an education. With no prospects at home, she began a job in the city taking care of a man’s household and his children. Isolated for three years and far from family and friends, Jannet was afraid to speak out when the man started taking advantage of her sexually. Even after she had enough and ran away, Jannet did not have the work skills to support herself. Time and again, she was forced to work in unsafe situations.
Young women like Jannet are especially vulnerable to the trap of commercial sex exploitation. Once Jannet developed skills like crafting sandals and making liquid soap, she felt empowered. “I learned that we all can stand on our own,” she said. Most recently, Jannet received training in hair dressing skills through Amilia’s Light’s Empowerment Program. Her dream is to own her own salon and employ other women, helping to break the cycle of poverty and vulnerability. Two program graduates have received degrees in social work, and now mentor program participants.
Commemorating the 15th anniversary of Amilia's passing and the last year that the Garden Party will be in Amilia's Garden, this year’s event is not to be missed. Garden Party attendees will learn how they are changing lives through their support, hear about plans for programs in Uganda and in Massachusetts, savor delicious food, sip a signature Amilia’s Light cocktail, and dance under the stars with the Road Dawgs.
Amilia's Light is in need of volunteers to help make this event a success. To sign up, RSVP at amiliaslight.org/gardenparty and say you want to volunteer.
The event is free. RSVP by visiting amiliaslight.org/gardenparty.
Those who cannot attend the Garden Party on May 24 are asked to consider a donation by visiting amiliaslight.org/gardenparty. There are a variety of donation levels to choose from on the site - Forget-Me-Not ($1000), Sunflower ($500), Rose ($250), Sweet Pea ($100), Morning Glory ($75), Violet ($50) or Daisy ($25) - and all funds go directly to Amilia’s Light programs. Amilia’s Light is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and donations are tax-deductible.
