Sisterhood Spotlight

According to your mission statement, The Lampstand exists to "empower the lives of those vulnerable to and affected by sexual exploitation." What does this empowerment look like on a day-to-day basis, and what makes The Lampstand so unique in their efforts?

At The Lampstand, empowerment is a daily commitment that goes beyond words—it's about being there for individuals in tangible ways. It means providing a listening ear, offering resources, and creating a community that genuinely cares. What makes us unique is our focus on not just addressing immediate needs but building lasting resilience through personal connections and comprehensive programs.

What is your role as Visionary Advisor at The Lampstand? Have you always known this was the line of work you wanted to pursue?

As the Visionary Advisor at The Lampstand, my journey has been shaped by a profound calling that redirected my career path. Initially, I pursued a degree in nursing, driven by a deep desire to help people. However, in my freshman year, a transformative moment occurred when the Lord touched my heart, leading me to change my major to global justice studies.

This pivotal moment marked a shift in my life's trajectory. It was during my studies in global justice that I encountered the harsh reality of sex trafficking. The revelation resonated deeply, and I knew without a doubt that combatting sex trafficking would become my life's calling. Ever since that transformative experience, I have dedicated my life to fighting against the exploitation of individuals, working tirelessly to bring about positive change.

Now, as the Visionary Advisor at The Lampstand, I bring professional expertise and a personal commitment forged through a journey of faith and conviction. This role is not just a position; it's a continuation of a calling that has defined the course of my life. It's about translating that initial calling into strategic vision and innovative approaches to address the complex challenges posed by sexual exploitation.

Being a Visionary Advisor means dreaming big and translating those dreams into actionable strategies. It involves anticipating challenges, identifying opportunities for growth, and constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible. It's about creating a future where exploitation is not just addressed but eradicated, and survivors can thrive.Together with the team at The Lampstand, we strive to create a future where the shadows of exploitation are replaced by the light of empowerment and justice.

What advice do you have for Virginia's Women+girls with a similar calling to work in the social impact sector?

To the incredible Women+Girls in Virginia with a calling for social impact, I'd say embrace your uniqueness and persist in your passion. Seek mentors who inspire you, stay open to diverse perspectives, and remember that even the smallest efforts matter. The journey may not always be linear, but each step you take contributes to meaningful change.

How has faith played a role in the progression of your career and life?

Faith has been the cornerstone of my career and life journey, guiding me through the highs and lows with unwavering strength. It's not merely a set of beliefs but a source of resilience, compassion, and a deep commitment to justice. In the realm of combating sexual exploitation, faith serves as both my anchor and compass.

Throughout my career, faith has played a transformative role in shaping my perspective and influencing my decision-making. It's the force that propels me forward when faced with challenges, reminding me of the greater purpose behind the work we do at The Lampstand. The values instilled by faith—compassion, empathy, and a sense of justice—have become guiding principles in my interactions with survivors and in the strategic direction of our initiatives.

Faith is not separate from the work; it's interwoven into the fabric of every effort to combat exploitation. It empowers me to approach each situation with a genuine desire to make a positive impact, grounded in a belief that change is possible. It fosters resilience in the face of adversity, fueling the passion to advocate for those who have experienced the trauma of exploitation.

January is Human Trafficking Awareness and Prevention Month. What can Virginians do to make an impact this month and throughout the year?

January serves as a powerful call to action for all Virginians to unite against human trafficking. Beyond simply raising awareness, the impact we can collectively make this month and throughout the year is significant. It's about transforming awareness into tangible actions that contribute to the ongoing fight against exploitation.

To make an impact, individuals in Virginia can start by educating themselves and others about the signs of human trafficking. Recognizing these signs is crucial for early intervention and support for survivors. By staying informed, we empower ourselves to be advocates for change.

Additionally, supporting local organizations dedicated to combating human trafficking is vital. These organizations often play a critical role in assisting survivors and working towards prevention. Whether through volunteering time, donating resources, or actively participating in advocacy campaigns, each contribution adds to the collective effort.

Advocacy for policy changes is another impactful avenue. Engaging with lawmakers to support legislation aimed at preventing and addressing human trafficking can lead to systemic improvements. By being vocal advocates, Virginians can contribute to creating an environment where exploitation is less likely to occur, and survivors receive the support they need.

The impact should not be confined to January alone; it's about fostering a culture of awareness and action throughout the year. Consistency in efforts, whether through continued education, support for organizations, or active advocacy, is essential for sustainable change. By staying committed beyond the designated awareness month, we contribute to a society where the fight against human trafficking is ongoing and impactful.

What else should Virginians know about the work of The Lampstand?

I want Virginians to know that The Lampstand is more than an organization—it's a family committed to eradicating exploitation. Our programs are not just about statistics; they are personal stories of survival and growth. By supporting The Lampstand, you're not just contributing; you're becoming part of a movement that believes in the power of every individual to create lasting change.

Biography

Kathleen Arnold is a dedicated advocate and leader in the fight against human trafficking, currently serving as the Senior Director of Programs for Safe House Project, a prominent nonprofit organization committed to combating modern-day slavery. With an extensive background in trafficking services, program development, and nonprofit management, Kathleen possesses over a decade of experience and expertise in addressing the complex needs of survivors. Throughout her career, Kathleen has held influential leadership positions within various nonprofit organizations, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to serving vulnerable populations. Notably, she played a pivotal role in establishing and directing the Lampstand, a safe home for children who have endured the horrors of sex trafficking, displaying her ability to create impactful initiatives from the ground up.

Kathleen's professional journey is complemented by an impressive array of certifications and affiliations within the anti-trafficking field. She is certified as a Mindset Instructor and Trust Based Relational Intervention Practitioner, equipped with specialized knowledge in Play Therapy, Restorative Circles, and Sexual Exploitation Treatment and Training Services. Additionally, she serves as the Visionary Advisor for The Lampstand Safehome and is a founding member of both the Roanoke Valley Human Trafficking Task Force and Aspire, a collective striving to eliminate racial and ethnic barriers to treatment and services for vulnerable populations. In 2020, Kathleen served as the acting chair of the Roanoke Valley Violence Prevention Council, further solidifying her commitment to addressing the broader issues surrounding violence and exploitation.

Kathleen holds a Bachelor's degree in Global Justice Studies from James Madison University and a Master's degree in Social Work from Radford University, where she was honored with the Excellence in Research award. Fuelled by her passion for social justice, Kathleen dedicates herself to effecting positive change in the lives of those susceptible to and affected by sexual exploitation. Through her remarkable leadership, unwavering dedication, and profound expertise, Kathleen Arnold embodies the spirit of compassion and advocacy in the fight against human trafficking.