On a recent episode of the Real Wealth Podcast, host Mike Proctor interviewed John Oelze, the Executive Director of Hope Ranch for Women. Hope Ranch is a nonprofit organization based in Kansas that provides residential programs, counseling, and support to survivors of human trafficking.

John shared the mission and vision of Hope Ranch. Founded in 2015, their first residence opened in 2019. Hope Ranch aims to save women and people from human trafficking in Kansas through long-term residential programs, community outreach, and advocacy. Kansas is unfortunately an originating state for human trafficking.

John discussed his background in church ministry and counseling. In 2015, he became the first Executive Director of Hope Ranch. He works to raise awareness, funds, and support for their life-changing work. Hope Ranch receives a grant from the state of Kansas but there is still tremendous need and few government programs providing this level of care.

The stories John shared were heartbreaking - one woman had a seizure upon seeing a dog kennel, as she had been kept in one for months by her trafficker. On average, trafficking victims have been raped over 6000 times. It takes intensive long-term counseling and support to help survivors find healing and freedom.

John emphasized the importance of getting involved to make a difference. Whether through donations, volunteering, or advocacy, we all have a role to play in fighting this darkness. Hope Ranch is saving lives and changing futures.

Their annual fundraising banquet will take place on September 7th and will feature former NFL quarterback Tim Tebow as the keynote speaker. The event will be held at the Wichita Union Stockyards (https://wichitastockyards.com/). Tickets can be purchased on Hope Ranch's website at HR4W.com. Corporate sponsorships are also available to help cover the costs of bringing in a speaker of Tebow's caliber.

-Mike Proctor, President for Leading Edge Financial Planning, LLC