January Marks National Human Trafficking Prevention Month: Join the Fight Against Exploitation
Each January, we observe National Human Trafficking Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness about the pervasive issue of human trafficking and to empower individuals to take action. This annual initiative underscores the importance of combating a crime that impacts an estimated 24.9 million people worldwide, depriving them of their freedom for profit.
What Is Human Trafficking?
Human trafficking involves the use of force, fraud, or coercion to compel individuals into commercial sex acts, labor, or services against their will. Traffickers prey on vulnerabilities, often targeting those seeking better opportunities for themselves and their families.
Spotting the Red Flags
As part of our ongoing commitment to safety, we encourage employees to familiarize themselves with the signs of human trafficking, which may include:
- Individuals showing signs of physical abuse or malnourishment.
- People who appear fearful, submissive, or unable to speak for themselves.
- Individuals who lack personal identification or appear controlled by someone else.
- Mention of exploitative working conditions, unpaid labor, or excessive hours.
Our Commitment at Royal American Management
At Royal American Management, we are dedicated to maintaining safe communities and workplaces. Employees working in public lodging establishments in Florida are required to complete annual human trafficking awareness training, as mandated by Florida Statute 509.096. This training ensures employees can recognize potential trafficking situations and respond appropriately.
How You Can Help
- Complete Required Training: All employees must complete the “Human Trafficking in Rental Housing” course assigned via Grace Hill and submit a signed certificate of completion to their Community Manager.
- Be Observant: Familiarize yourself with the red flags and report suspicious activity.
- Spread Awareness: Display the required Human Trafficking Public Awareness Sign in employee-accessible areas, as per Florida law (Florida sites only).
Report Suspicious Activity
If you suspect someone may be a victim of human trafficking, call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 888-373-7888 or text INFO or HELP to 233-733. Your vigilance could save a life.
Together, we can make a difference by staying informed, vigilant, and proactive. Let’s ensure that our communities remain places of safety and freedom for all.
Review the Human Trafficking presentation here.
Last week, we had the pleasure of welcoming our incredible 2024 Regional Manager hires and promotions to corporate for their Regional Manager Training! (L to R) Chaundra Wilson, Norah Durham, Cindy Fonseca, Macee Penny, Shannon Wood, and Maria Davila met with all our support departments, gained valuable insights, and officially earned their certificates of completion!
We’re excited to see the amazing things they will accomplish as they lead with excellence across Royal American. Here’s to a bright and successful future together!
**POSTPONED DUE TO WEATHER.**
Our next Town Hall will take place on Wednesday, January 22nd from 10:00–11:00AM Central (11:00AM–12:00PM Eastern). Our RA University Townhall will be hosted by the Training Department and will feature Kristy Cobb, along with other members of the Compliance Team! They will discuss Audit Prep and the roles of the Compliance Department.
Next Wednesday, January 29th, will feature a part two with our compliance team, focusing on HUD/RD properties.
If you work with tax credit properties, you don’t want to miss this session tomorrow. Mark your calendars!
