2025 Human Trafficking Symposium a resounding success; Community unites against exploitation

The 2025 Human Trafficking Symposium, held on Jan. 16 in Ontario, brought together 50 youth and over 400 professionals to tackle one of society’s most pressing challenges — human trafficking.

Spearheaded by the Coalition Against Sexual Exploitation (CASE), the San Bernardino County Children’s Network event inspired attendees with new tools and resources and a shared pledge to make a meaningful impact in 2025.

The symposium’s highlight was keynote speaker and former NFL quarterback Tim Tebow, renowned for his advocacy through the Tim Tebow Foundation. Tebow delivered a powerful address on human trafficking and child exploitation, emphasizing innovative solutions and the global scope of the issue. His words resonated deeply with the audience, earning widespread praise for their thought-provoking and actionable insights.

CASE played a pivotal role in organizing the event, bringing together experts, survivors and advocates to provide participants with trauma-informed care techniques, survivor empowerment strategies, and insights into modern trafficking trends. The coalition’s leadership ensured a dynamic and impactful program designed to educate and inspire action within the community.

Participants engaged in workshops, youth sessions and panel discussions that explored critical topics, from culturally responsive interventions to building resilience in survivors. Attendees gained valuable tools for supporting survivors and fostering change in their communities. The youth, inspired by Tebow and interactive enrichment activities, committed to raising awareness and becoming change-makers in their own right.

The symposium concluded with a panel discussion and closing remarks, where attendees collectively pledged to take action in the fight against human trafficking in 2025. Children’s Network and CASE emphasized the importance of partnerships and grassroots efforts to sustain progress and bring systemic change.

“We are immensely proud of the impact this symposium has had on our community,” said Children’s Network Officer Ashley Brooksher. “This event reflects our unwavering commitment to eradicating human trafficking. By uniting professionals, youth and advocates, we are empowering our community to create a brighter, safer future for all.”

The symposium underscored the vital role of education, collaboration and action in addressing human trafficking. With CASE at the helm, attendees left with renewed resolve and actionable strategies to leverage resources in San Bernardino County and beyond.

For more information about CASE, or to get involved in anti-human trafficking efforts, please call 909-383-9677.

Additional County Update News – Jan. 30, 2025