North Star Fundraiser To Aid The Harbor

The program for the 2021 hybrid Tapas Shindig will include presentations by executive director Alicia Corrado, director of development Janelle Esbenshade, a member of the North Star Initiative board, and radio personality Lisa Landis will serve as master of ceremonies. Esbenshade noted, however, that the most impactful presentation of the evening will be made by a human trafficking survivor. "We share out of our experience (with victims)," reflected Esbenshade, "but when you hear it firsthand (from a survivor), it's a different experience."

North Star Initiative has been fighting human trafficking in Lancaster for more than 10 years. More than three years ago, the organization began operating The Harbor, known as Lancaster County's first restoration home for survivors of sex trafficking and sexual exploitation.

This year's fundraiser for North Star Initiative will be held at Warehouse 100, 100 W. Franklin St., New Holland, on Friday, Oct. 22, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

North Star did not hold the annual fundraiser in 2020 due to COVID-19 restrictions, but this year a larger venue will allow for more attendees to stand at high-top tables enjoying tapas and mocktails if they so choose. Limited seating will also be available. A hybrid option will provide those who choose to attend virtually with a link and a delivery of tapas and mocktails to hold a watch party in their own home.

Both a silent auction and a live auction will be part of the event. The live auction will feature auctioneer Tim Keller. The silent auction will open online on Friday, Oct. 8. The online silent auction is open to the public, and those wishing to bid may do so by connecting to a link at https://northstarinitiative.org or by searching for "North Star Initiative" on Facebook. Among the many items that will be auctioned off are a vacation on Anna Maria Island, Fla.; a shooting range pass; a 24-hour rental of a 2021 Corvette; and a wine tour at Waltz Vineyards.

Esbenshade said that the organization hopes to raise $150,000 from this year's event and that the funds are necessary to help battle the expanding problem of human trafficking. "Through COVID, we saw an increase (in need)," Esbenshade shared, noting that The Harbor filled up over the last year or so. "The pandemic compounded existing vulnerabilities and opened the door for individuals to be exploited," she explained, adding that the shutdown "created an ideal environment for human trafficking to evolve and flourish." Esbenshade cited a number of situations where women and children may have been put into vulnerable positions due to COVID-19 restrictions.

To join North Star in its fight against human trafficking by purchasing a ticket, visit https://northstarinitiative.org/tapas-shindig.