Advent Reflection: Hope Unfolding
by Katie Boller Gosewisch
In the Advent season, we are invited to believe that hope is not only possible, but already unfolding among us. Advent reminds us that light grows gradually, often quietly, through the steady work of communities committed to compassion and justice.
This year, our education and outreach efforts expanded nationwide, reaching thousands through presentations, training sessions, community events, and a growing roster of our Speakers Bureau. These programs equip individuals, parishes, schools, and organizations with practical tools to recognize exploitation and strengthen prevention. We participated in major conferences nationwide and hosted a robust series of webinars to help communities better understand the realities of exploitation and pathways to prevention.
Throughout 2025, we launched new resources designed to strengthen prevention at every level and broadened our advocacy presence, including meaningful participation in Advocacy Days in Washington, D.C., where our members engaged directly with lawmakers on critical anti-trafficking legislation. We also hosted national conversations, such as the NFL Anti-Trafficking Symposium. We deepened partnerships with congregations, survivor leaders, dioceses, and grassroots networks, ensuring that our work remains informed, grounded, and responsive to real needs.
Our February conference, Pathways to Prevention, brought together leaders, advocates, and practitioners for shared learning and collective action. We look forward to building on that momentum at next year’s conference, United in Prevention: Current Trends and Prevention Strategies, as we continue to expand our national reach and deepen our collective impact.
As we look back, we are grateful for engagement, prayers, generosity, and unwavering belief that every person deserves safety and dignity. Nothing we accomplished this year happened in isolation; it happened because people across the country chose to stand with us.
Advent challenges us to prepare for what comes next. In the year ahead, the Alliance will continue to expand programming, strengthen survivor-centered initiatives, and expand national advocacy. With shared commitment, 2026 can be a year of stronger prevention and more profound collective effort.
May this Advent move us closer to a world where every person lives free from exploitation.
