The Alliance to End Human Trafficking hosted its 2026 conference, United in Prevention: Current Trends and Prevention Strategies, bringing together a diverse group of advocates, practitioners, and partners committed to strengthening human trafficking prevention efforts.
In her opening remarks, Executive Director Katie Boller Gosewisch reflected on the foundation of this work: “The Alliance itself was born from this truth: when a small group of committed women religious came together, recognizing that their individual efforts could become something far greater if united. Today, that vision has grown into a national network—hundreds of communities and congregations, coalitions, and individuals—standing together as a powerful voice for change.”
This year’s conference welcomed more than 175 participants, reflecting continued growth in both reach and engagement. Over the course of three days, attendees participated in sessions examining a range of critical issues, from survivor-centered responses and healthcare engagement to the role of technology and the risks associated with large-scale events. The program emphasized not only awareness but the need for coordinated, prevention-focused strategies that can be applied across sectors and communities.
The conference included Continuing Education Unit (CEU) sessions, with 20 participants taking part in this focused professional development opportunity. Regis College and the Alliance to End Human Trafficking served as co-sponsors of the CEU program, which was approved by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). Regis College Graduate Counseling Programs, an NBCC-approved continuing education provider (ACEP No. 3097), offered NBCC-approved clock hours for qualifying sessions.
The conference also created space for meaningful exchange, allowing participants to learn from one another’s work and explore approaches that strengthen collaboration at the local, national, and international levels.
We are especially grateful to our sponsors: Conrad N. Hilton Foundation, Conrad N. Hilton Fund for Sisters, Sisters of Charity Ministry Fund, Congregation of Marianites of Holy Cross, CommonSpirit Health, Sisters of Mercy of the Americas, School Sisters of Notre Dame, and Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati, whose support made this conference possible and reflects a shared commitment to addressing human trafficking through education, advocacy, and sustained engagement.
We also extend our sincere thanks to our planning committee, staff, and Board members, whose leadership, planning, and coordination were essential to the success of this year’s conference.
Finally, thank you to all speakers, partners, and attendees who contributed their time, expertise, and insight. The conversations and connections formed during this conference will continue to inform and strengthen our collective work in the months ahead.
We look forward to building on this momentum and continuing the conversations in our 2027 conference in April in Washington, D.C.
