Celebrating its 15th anniversary, Samaritan Village’s 2024 Road to Freedom Gala received crucial support through funds provided by the Elinor and T.W. Miller Jr. Foundation. The foundation’s grant was strategically used as a matching opportunity, more than doubling donations made during the event and amplifying its overall impact. The gala serves as Samaritan Village’s annual premier fundraiser, generating essential resources to support programming and the daily needs of individuals in the organization’s three safe houses, which assist women recovering from sexual exploitation and human trafficking.
The event featured an engaging program highlighting survivor advocacy and education. Keynote speaker Alina Donahue, a lived experience expert and national advocate for survivors of human trafficking and domestic violence, shared her personal journey and the lessons she has drawn from years of training professionals across the country. Musical performances by the Seminole High School Gospel Choir and vocalist Kasey Brennan added to the celebratory tone, honoring both the progress of survivors and the community’s shared commitment to ending exploitation.
Proceeds from the gala, strengthened by the foundation’s matching funds, directly supported Samaritan Village’s Transitional Safe House Program. This multi-tiered, trauma-informed initiative provides comprehensive, survivor-centered care. During the funding period, 12 participants benefited from services including safe housing, emergency and clinical care, therapy, substance recovery support, and the development of independent living skills to facilitate safe reintegration into the community.
By leveraging the Elinor and T.W. Miller Jr. Foundation’s contribution, the gala not only celebrated a milestone year but also deepened its impact in supporting long-term recovery and empowerment for survivors.