HTCPB Hosts Inaugural Luncheon Celebrating 20 Years of Impact
On February 4, 2026, the Human Trafficking Coalition of the Palm Beaches (HTCPB) marked a powerful milestone—20 years of prevention, education, and survivor support—with its inaugural anniversary luncheon, An Afternoon for Freedom. Held at the Lake Pavilion in West Palm Beach, the sold-out event brought together community leaders, advocates, and supporters united in one shared mission: ending human trafficking in Palm Beach County.
The luncheon, themed “Our Community, Our Fight: 20 Years Against Trafficking,” served as both a celebration of progress and a call to action for the future. Guests gathered for a meaningful afternoon featuring a plated lunch, community fellowship, and a program centered on hope, resilience, and impact.
Honoring Champions of Change
A highlight of the event was the recognition of individuals and organizations who have played a critical role in advancing anti-trafficking efforts across the region. These honorees reflect the strength of a united community response—one that prioritizes prevention, protection, and survivor empowerment.
Champion for Advocacy
Melissa McKinlay, Vice President of Government Relations at WGI and former Palm Beach County Commissioner
Justice Champions
Dave Aronberg, Managing Partner at Dave Aronberg Law and former State Attorney for the 15th Judicial Circuit of Florida
Greg Schiller, CEO of Child Rescue Coalition
Defender of Freedom
Palm Beach County Human Trafficking Task Force
Outstanding Organization
National Center for Missing & Exploited Children
Innovation in Prevention
Gary Cadwallader, Director of Education and Community Engagement at Palm Beach Dramaworks
Innovative Outreach
Rescue Upstream
Outstanding Community Support
National Council of Jewish Women
Legacy of Hope
Dr. Heidi Schaeffer
T. Smith, MSW, Former Victim Specialist
Brandy Macaluso, Chief Programming Officer, Coalition for Independent Living Options, Inc.
Bonnie Jo Daniels, LMH-QS, Owner of Speaklife.Community Counseling Center
Legacy of Service
Cathy Iho
Community Hero Award
Susan Kanoff
Together, these honorees represent the collective impact of individuals and organizations working tirelessly to combat human trafficking and support survivors throughout Palm Beach County.
A Message of Hope and Resilience
The program featured keynote speaker Rebecca Bender, an internationally recognized survivor leader and founder of the Rebecca Bender Initiative. Through her powerful story and advocacy, she inspired attendees to deepen their commitment to prevention and to recognize the vital role every community member plays in combating trafficking.
The program also included remarks from a distinguished group of speakers and partners, including Greg Schiller, Dave Aronberg, Callahan Walsh, and representatives from the Palm Beach County Human Trafficking Task Force. Together, these voices highlighted the importance of a coordinated, multidisciplinary response to trafficking—one that prioritizes both accountability and survivor support.
Their insights reinforced a central truth echoed throughout the afternoon: awareness leads to action, and action changes lives.
Two Decades of Impact
Over the past 20 years, HTCPB has grown from a small group of dedicated service providers into a leading force for awareness and prevention in Palm Beach County. The Coalition has reached more than 50,000 students and families with prevention education—equipping young people and the broader community with the tools to recognize and resist trafficking.
Through collaboration with schools, law enforcement, and community partners, HTCPB continues to build a network of protection and empowerment for those most at risk.
Investing in a Safer Future
Proceeds from An Afternoon for Freedom directly support HTCPB’s education and prevention programs, as well as resources for survivors. These efforts are critical in addressing trafficking at its roots—through early intervention, awareness, and community engagement.
The overwhelming support and sold-out attendance of this inaugural luncheon reflect a growing commitment across Palm Beach County to stand against exploitation and protect future generations.
Looking Ahead
As HTCPB enters its next chapter, the Coalition remains steadfast in its mission: to unite the community in the fight against human trafficking through education, collaboration, and survivor empowerment.
An Afternoon for Freedom was more than a celebration—it was a reminder of what is possible when a community comes together with purpose. And as the Coalition looks to the future, one message remains clear: the work is not done, but together, freedom is within reach.