Ann Lien, founder and director
Ann Lien launched the inaugural Freedom Week in 2009 with a coalition of activists and nonprofit representatives from around New York City and New Jersey. She has served on discussion panels and created workshops about human trafficking, and is a member of the U.N. Association's Partnership for the Eradication of Human Trafficking (PEHT).
Beth Pappas, co-director
Beth Pappas joined Freedom Week in 2010 and has been pleased to offer events in partnership with Love146, iEmpathize, and NYCUP. She is a founding member of the Love146 New York City Task Force, and serves on the U.N. Association's Partnership for the Eradication of Human Trafficking (PEHT).
Erica Thomas, intern 2011
Erica Thomas is a member of Just Peace at Manhattan College, which promotes awareness on human rights issues, with an emphasis on human trafficking. She will begin her senior year in fall, 2011.
FAQs
I’ve read your Mission and Vision Statements, but what exactly does Freedom Week do?
Freedom Week brings organizations together to educate the public and raise awareness. Freedom Week is an annual week-long series of events that does just that. The events vary from academic to artistic. Past events have featured: panel discussions with high-profile speakers, dance performances, theater pieces, poetry readings, film screenings, art auctions, art exhibitions, concerts, markets/expos, and walk-a-thons. By being able to market a solid calendar of events, we are able to not only raise awareness about this important issue, but also connect people with organizations, and help organizations to network with each other.
Is Freedom Week a 501(c)(3) organization?
No, Freedom Week is not currently a 501(c)(3) organization. However we are working towards gaining 501(c)(3) status and hope to have this completed by Freedom Week 2013.
Can I make a financial contribution to Freedom Week?
Yes, you may certainly contribute via check to Freedom Week! Because we are not yet a 501(c)(3), this contribution would not be tax-deductible. However, it would be going to a very good cause! And any amount helps – no contribution is too small (really). If you are interested, please contact us directly at freedomweeknyc@gmail.com and we will send you the details.
What are Freedom Week’s expenses and how will my contribution fit in?
Currently, Freedom Week has no income other than participation fees from partner organizations and registration/entry fees charged for some events during the once-a-year campaign. Our sole ongoing expense is maintaining our website. Expenses in the fall include print media, as well as costs for renting venues and bringing in notable speakers and artists from around the country, to ensure we get top-quality experts for our events.
Your contribution also helps us to support and promote awareness about organizations on the frontlines: safe houses, aftercare programs, prevention education, and other direct services. By making people aware of these organizations, we can help these organizations raise the necessary funds to continue their important and valuable work.
Besides financially, how else can I contribute to Freedom Week?
The majority of our activity every year is during Freedom Week. During that week we always need volunteers! We can use your help for just a few hours at almost any event, for such things as taking tickets at events, greeting guests, handing out information, manning tables, setup and break down, and for helping with various and important other details! Please let us know if you are interested as Freedom Week approaches each year!
As well, planning Freedom Week takes a lot of effort! Reaching out to agencies, inviting speakers, following up on emails, updating the website, finding venues, making decisions, preparing promotional material, etc. We can ALWAYS use more people during the summer and fall months as things heat up! Please let us know if you are interested in getting involved in a more sustained way - this would entail attending a monthly meeting, and being in touch with us via email to report on progress, etc. between meetings. We are always happy to expand the Freedom Week family to passionate, motivated people! Join us!