Professional Education

Human Trafficking

(Rescheduled) Empowering Change with Leslie King

REGISTRATION IS NOW CLOSED. 

Join us for a powerful and inspiring training event featuring Leslie F. King, a nationally recognized advocate, author, and survivor of human trafficking and sexual exploitation. At just 15 years old, Leslie was coerced into the world of prostitution in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where she remained trapped for over two decades. On July 4, 2000, she found the courage to break free and has since dedicated her life to helping others escape similar circumstances.

In 2005, Leslie founded Sacred Beginnings, Michigan’s first safe haven for survivors of human trafficking. Through her organization, she provides hope, healing, and empowerment to those rebuilding their lives. Leslie also works closely with law enforcement, human service professionals, clergy, and community leaders—offering expert insight into supporting victims of exploitation with compassion and understanding.

During this training, Leslie will share her powerful personal story discuss the realities of human trafficking and provide practical guidance for those working to combat exploitation in their communities. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from one of Michigan’s most
passionate and respected voices for change.

Learning Objectives:

  1. Identify the legal definition of human trafficking
  2. Describe two practical ways to combat exploitation in the community
  3. Identify two ways of supporting victims of exploitation

Presenter

  • King Headshot

    Leslie F. King

    Leslie F. King is a survivor of human trafficking and sexual exploitation. She was coerced into the lifestyle of prostitution at the tender age of 15 in Grand Rapids, MI. She became trapped in the underworld of prostitution and drug addiction for over 20 years. On July 4, 2000, Leslie miraculously found the strength and the courage to break free. Since 2003, she has been intensely engaged in working with individuals who find themselves trapped in the same horrors that she experienced. In 2005, Leslie utilized her experience, expertise, and inspiring example of a renewed lifestyle to open Sacred Beginnings, a safe haven that offers hope, and healing to trafficking victims. Leslie consults with law enforcement agencies, human service professionals, clergy, and others requesting direction and understanding in working with prostituted individuals. She also speaks at various conferences and academic institutions on the issue of human trafficking. Leslie is well-respected in the state of Michigan from which she hails and where she is often seen boldly conducting street outreach to sexually exploited people during unconventional hours.

Location Details

Tuesday, 01/27/2026
From 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services is accredited by the Michigan State Medical Society to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services designates this live activity for a maximum of 1 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

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