Our S.T.A.N.D. Classes


Liz Midkiff had a simple yet profound vision: fight human trafficking through educating young women. The first program started in August 2013 in Ohio and then progressed to New York in 2018. In 2019, Liz started branching out to other states. After an excruciating past as a young woman, as an adult she desired to do something more than just raise awareness for the cause (as important as that is). So, she began teaching the girls in her youth group to be watchful in their daily lives, empowering them to develop holistic tools to notice when the signs of trafficking are going on around them and to help others who might be at risk. She spent time with the teenagers and did research about human trafficking, all the while knowing the brutal fact of the matter: this issue wasn’t a rare phenomenon in some distant country. People were being trafficked every day, right under people’s noses. And yes, this was occurring even in the “Land of the Free.”

Eleven years later, amidst her ongoing initiatives for teenagers, her five-year-old son asked, “Mom, why don’t other kids know about the work you are doing?” So, out of a desire to educate the next generation on the issues of human trafficking, Liz and Rebecca McDonald, resident and founder of Women At Risk, International (WAR, Int’l) founded S.T.A.N.D. classes, which stands (no pun intended) for Safety Awareness, Trafficking signs, Age Appropriate, No (Okay to say no), and Determination.

Through the S.T.A.N.D. classes, Liz desires that parents see the importance of educating their children on topics such as the inherent dignity of every human and the need for physical safety for overall well-being. In other words, while the theme of the sessions is undoubtedly tied to the topic of human trafficking, Liz makes it a point to cover much more than trafficking itself. Additionally, while S.T.A.N.D. classes are just that—classes—they encompass much more than what someone might picture with a teacher speaking to students at desks. Instead, Liz employs games, interactive activities, and question-and-answer methods to teach and uses age-appropriate terminology to do so; for instance, she won’t use the word “rape” with a five-year-old.

The boys and girls (yes, the classes are offered to both) learn concepts such as how to answer the questions, What is safe? Who is safe? What do I do if my babysitter tells me to take my clothes off? Which of the following can we buy with money: food, clothes, and/or people? In short, these classes address the fundamental aspects of what it means to be human. Through this educational framework, the instructor is able to help children think through these questions before the problem actually happens. One of the evils of human trafficking is the unpredictability of who is trafficked, and when and how it happens. Therefore, it’s never too early to learn and grow, and be aware of basic safety techniques. Parents are welcomed and encouraged to sit in on the session and continue the dialogue with their children afterwards.

Though these tools of protection, techniques of safety, and levels of awareness have been crucial for all human history, due to our digital age there is a sense in which the truths and skills taught in the S.T.A.N.D. classes are more important than ever. With the interconnectedness of the web, the widespread usage of social media, and the false feeling of closeness with which people on the internet have, it is in many ways easier than ever to traffic innocent men and women, boys and girls. Thus, S.T.A.N.D. skills are crucial to navigating the cultural moment with safety and putting up appropriate barriers where necessary.

Will these classes prevent all forms of human trafficking? Of course not. Will they provide children of all ages the fundamental tools they need to react should various situations arise in future years? Absolutely.

Liz’s goal is for the kids to leave the class with basic knowledge of what a victim and survivor is, a holistic perspective of safety, and practical ways to prevent trafficking and help others in this enterprise. Of course, these classes aim for no less than human trafficking prevention, but the ambition is much broader—all-around safety. The vision for S.T.A.N.D. is simple in nature yet exceedingly profound in impact, just like Liz’s original objective eleven years ago.

Taught by Liz, the classes can be held locally at WAR headquarters in Wyoming, MI, or hosted by any sort of school, nonprofit, church, or similar entity. To host a session or register for a class, email WAR, Int’l at emidkiff@warinternational.org. Also, please see the Frequently Asked Questions below if you have additional inquiries.

Meet Liz Midkiff | Liz’s passion is two-fold. She seeks to speak truth to the upcoming generations as they navigate growing up in today’s social media culture as well as to give voice to the once voiceless by highlighting the incredible work of their hands.

She is married, a mom of 2 young boys, the creator of the S.T.A.N.D. Classes, an Ambassador for Women At Risk, International (WAR, Int’l), a survivor of human trafficking, and an advocate for survivor artisans.


FAQs

Why are these classes important for children?
They provide children with fundamental safety awareness information and techniques without delving into unnecessary graphic details. Age-appropriate terminology is exercised as the instructor gives practical wisdom for children of all ages.

Are these classes only for girls?
No, both boys and girls are welcome (and encouraged) to attend.

Are boys and girls in the same room?
The hosts can choose whether they want a co-ed session or desire to have the two genders in separate rooms.

What type of venue is the typical host site?
Any school, church, nonprofit, company, organization, or group of people, whether formal or informal, is encouraged to reach out about holding these classes. WAR, Int’l headquarters in Wyoming, Michigan, is a great option for locals from the Grand Rapids area.

How much do they cost?
Cost depends on location, attendance, and other logistical factors. The more people you gather to attend, the cheaper it will be!

Can parents sit in on the classes?
Of course! Parents can choose to attend the classes with their child, or they may deliberately allow their child to attend by themselves and then be intentional regarding later conversation. Additionally, there’s an opportunity to conduct the classes and then have a parent-only question-and-answer session afterward. Through the classes, Liz is seeking to be a bridge between the parent and child, and parents often find that this program either reinforces principles they’ve been teaching their kids or begins a conversation about important topics.

I have a question which has yet to be answered.
Sorry your question wasn’t answered. Please email emidkiff@warinternational.org.

Stories of Rescue, Healing, Hope,…


Presidential Message: Rebecca McDonald

“Our commitment is for the House of WAR to be a sanctuary. We ofter see a spike in the number of 911 scenarios at various times that bring its own dangers to those hiding under a bridge or running for their lives barefoot—or wishing they could. Some stories are messy and still ongoing, and one haunts both my waking and sleeping moments as we continue trying to bring about a resolution. Every life is precious to the WAR family, and we are determined to fight for her.”


Stories of Rescue, Healing, Hope,…

Angel’s Story

The day COVID-19 hit the U.S. in 2020, Rebecca McDonald, founder and president of WAR, Int’l, hid a young woman in her car.

Freedom is costly.

When you help a woman escape exploitation, you see firsthand the devastating loss that comes from fleeing slavery. In leaving behind abuse, women often leave behind everything they’ve ever known. Starting over is exhausting, and is only made worse by navigating the rough waves of trauma and healing. Freedom is not free–it is painfully expensive in a thousand different ways.

Angel had been running barefoot from her traffickers for hours before she secured WAR, Int’l’s number from a national hotline. After she courageously reached out to us, we ran to her aid. Angel was tucked safely away in Becky’s car while we arranged safe housing.

Today, Angel is flourishing. Not only have pro bono lawyers cleared her name of all crimes claimed against her, but she is excelling as a legal secretary, spreading the seeds of justice that were planted in her own life. She has been reunited with her kids. Through your generosity, she has also been provided with a car. Once stereotyped due to riding a bicycle to and from work, Angel now possesses the resources to reflect her inner potential.

Margaret’s Story

Far too often, traffickers aren’t strangers. This was Margaret’s story. Her boyfriend betrayed her, forcing her to sleep with other men in exchange for the drugs that fueled his addiction.

Margaret waited in anguish for an opportunity to escape. Seeing her only chance, she fled while clutching the arm of her teenage daughter. Like so many others, they left with nothing but the clothes on their backs. As the two of them fearfully hid in a hotel, Margaret reached out in faith to WAR, Int’l.

Due to generous contributions to our 911 Rescue Fund, WAR, Int’l was able to respond immediately in Margaret’s hour of need, providing food, clothing, and other basic essentials. We also arranged the transportation that reunited Margaret and her daughter with their family in another city, restoring them to a circle of belonging and protection.

Ramona’s Story

Responding to a call from a federal agency, WAR, Int’l took Ramona shopping for an outfit she could wear to court. Despite unimaginable circumstances and lingering hurt, Ramona had resolved to testify against her traffickers.

We often emphasize how important it is to shed light on the realities of human trafficking and bring perpetrators to justice but forget that it requires real human cost. WAR, Int’l leapt into overdrive to surround Ramona and prepare this courageous survivor to be the key witness against a trafficking ring. Ignoring the attention we attracted by shopping under armed guard, we watched Ramona’s countenance transform from fear to confidence!

Touched by our compassion for her, Ramona whispered, “Why do you care for me when you don’t even know me?”

We at WAR, Int’l love that question! The 911 Rescue Fund allows us to respond, inform, and reach into lives with action. It permits us to be the hands and feet of Jesus. We were honored to be a part of Ramona’s story and are so inspired by her resilience.

The Next Story

Because of your generosity, WAR, Int’l is a sanctuary. Together, we partner in the Lord’s work to bestow beauty instead of ashes.

Our 911 Rescue Fund seeks to be the hands and feet of Christ, showing up for survivors in their hour of need. Empowered by your gifts, there is no need to which WAR, Int’l turns a blind eye.

We hide the hunted, clothe the exposed, and nourish the hungry. To those on the run, we provide rest and respite. The hurting are set on a path to healing and the homeless are embraced. Each woman, man, and child is welcomed and grafted into the WAR family.

Behind each of these initiatives is a story of a survivor who was earnestly pursued and wrapped in compassion.

Your generosity will write the next story. Your Giving Tuesday gift will embolden us to continue to intervene, bringing precious survivors out of darkness and into marvelous light.

Contribute to rescue, donate today to our 911 Rescue Fund.

Give online here.

Send a check to:
Women At Risk, International
2790 44th St. SW
Wyoming, MI 49519.

If you write a check, please be sure to note on the memo line that it is for our 911 Rescue Fund.

Year in Review | 2024

By Becky McDonald, Founder & President
-January 2025


2024 IN REVIEW

Dear WARriors:

The “dirty little secret” of 150 years of government and ministry abroad is a gigantic welfare system where dependency hostility is real. We’ve fed fish to the starving but never taught them to fish! You CANNOT rescue someone, pat them on the head and say, “Nasty little life there…go do something nice.” Over 90% of Cambodians rescued and sent home without job training get RESOLD. You MUST empower work with dignity, or they’re re-scammed. We passionately help rebuild lives a day at a time at their own pace. If you’re starving, I’ll feed you a fish. BUT, may I PLEASE teach you to fish, make fishing poles, and sell your fish and fishing poles?

WAR is passionate about the 200+ projects and programs we partner with. One of our favorite questions is, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” Whether they are 2, 12, or 52 years old…we want them to DREAM and make that dream come true! One woman recoiled saying, “I’ve learned never to dream!” I said, “Start now!” This year that turned into GOATS! Yep! Inside the WAR program world, G.O.A.T. actually stands for GIVING OPPORTUNITIES AND TRAINING, which is about animal husbandry of goats and chickens. Much of our time this year was spent in Zambia, experiencing a famine and the worst drought in history. Walking by 2 freezers in our buildings there, I decided on the spot to buy goats…85 to start! If we couldn’t grow corn, we’d eat meat! The WAR family rallied. Our Zambian staff are dreaming of having 2 million goats! Seriously!

Goats aside…A quick look at “work with dignity” is a dazzling array of skill training that we’ve done!

• Sewing, Knitting, Weaving ~ In former British colonies sewing is a real income, making 10 times a daily labor man’s job if a woman is industrious…WHILE she watches her kiddos at home.

• Agricultural Training ~ Along with the animal husbandry, we train women (and men watch and learn) how to grow gardens, do drip irrigation and make their own food to eat AND sell.

• Jewelry Making ~ Shoppers KNOW our high-end jewelry, real stones, pearls…beautiful gifts. Shopping for these literally jumps you in the trenches with us, lifting lives to work with dignity.

• Bakeries, Coffee Shops, Culinary Training ~ From Asian bakeries that supply royal families to coffee shops and 5-star hotel culinary training…we help men and women to dream this dream.

• Scarves and Clothes ~ From Pakistan to India to Thailand, we have the most incredible silk, embroidered, pashmina, cashmere, cotton and more scarves for every taste.

• Spa Products ~ Begun to help a tiny American girl, sold by her father to politicians, we launched a full line of spa products made by rescued and at-risk Americans.

• Micro-Businesses ~ From a Ugandan nuts and bolts kiosk, to produce grown and sold by widows, selling door to door, woman to woman, to sales of every kind…our women are flourishing in their own businesses.

• Education ~ From teaching Braille, to culinary schools, to doctors, lawyers, engineers, art, teachers, cosmetology, physical therapy, counseling…you name it…if a survivor dreams it, we make DREAMS a reality.

• Toys ~ My favorites are the kids toys from a croaking frog (for real), to finger puppets (I have 1 of each), to owl backpacks, to amazing baby llama fur, to tiny miniatures, and so much more!

These are just a few ways we helped survivors rebuild their lives to WORK WITH DIGNITY in 2024, in addition to wrap-around trauma informed rescue, aftercare, and healing:

Rebecca McDonald
Founder & President

Host a Pop-Up Boutique, Save a Life


January is Human Trafficking Prevention & Awareness Month.

As part of the January Campaign of Women at Risk, International (WAR, Int’l) to bring awareness, here is the second blog article in the series.

(Keep scrolling to learn special offer.)


WAR, Int’l events are more than shopping at our pop-up boutiques to empower at-risk and rescued individuals or presentations to learn ways to fight trafficking. They have birthed stories of rescue. Here are two of those stories.

A Little Girl Saved

Our hostess shared the following story: “Pamela, an event attendee, came up to me tonight at our meeting and told me that she is an officer of the court. Pamela said that after our WAR, Int’l presentation, she remembered the signs of trafficking discussed and she remembered a man with a young girl in court. The man had the passport and did all the talking while the girl held her head down the entire time. Pamela was able to get a message to the judge. After questioning them, the court confirmed the girl was being trafficked. Your presentation was used to save someone! Thank you for all you do!”

A Pop-Up turns into a Rescue

At WAR, Int’l we often say, “one call can save a life.” While this usually brings to mind emergency calls or hotline tips, sometimes a simple call about hosting an event can also lead to rescue.

Valerie from Atlanta made such a call. Many years ago, she attended a women’s conference where WAR, Int’l Founder and President Rebecca McDonald spoke about Atlanta’s trafficking crisis. Inspired, Valerie kept a WAR, Int’l brochure tucked in a book & forgotten… until six years later, when she rediscovered it. Feeling prompted to act, she contacted her women’s ministry leader and arranged to sell WAR, Int’l products at a retreat.

When asked to speak about trafficking at the event, Valerie agreed. She also sponsored a young woman who couldn’t afford to attend. During Valerie’s talk, the sponsored woman bravely shared her ongoing story of abuse, addiction, and exploitation. She confessed she was being trafficked and used to recruit others—and she wanted out.

The women surrounded her with prayer, hope, and practical help. Ministry leaders found her a safe place to stay and connected her with resources for her journey to freedom.

In rehab, supported by Valerie and others, the survivor thrived in the program, even expressing a desire to help others escape exploitation someday.


SPECIAL OFFER | February through July 2025

Contact the WAR Chest Boutique at 616-530-1234 or info@warchestboutique.com to book your VIP Boutique Party.


Contact us today at 616-855-0796 or Party@WARInternational.org to host a pop-up boutique!

LEARN MORE HERE.

Myths that Perpetuate Trafficking


January is Human Trafficking Prevention & Awareness Month.

As part of our January Campaign to bring awareness, Women At Risk, International (WAR, Int’l) here is the first blog article in the series.


Myths that Perpetuate Trafficking (and Facts that Break Chains)

Today, at least 50 million people are enslaved by the evil that is human trafficking. Though it is frequently punishable by law, the horrific realities are often hidden behind closed doors. To make matters worse, the shadowy nature of human trafficking contributes to many misunderstandings which allow the industry to thrive. In the spirit of National Human Trafficking Prevention Month, here are a few myths that confuse and hinder the efforts to combat human trafficking in our own communities, nationally, and across the globe.

It is of note that this is not an exhaustive list.

***

Myth: Human trafficking only happens in impoverished countries overseas.

FACT: Human trafficking exists in nearly every country, including in the “Land of the Free.”

Human trafficking has become the most pervasive criminal activity in the world, and it happens in nearly every country across the globe. According to the International Labor Organization, the Asia and Pacific region has the highest number of victims at 29.3 million, over half of the global total. In the Americas, human trafficking victims are primarily women subjected to sexual exploitation. While human trafficking is a global problem, this does not preclude it from being an American problem. In 2017, human trafficking was reported in every single U.S. state. There are at least one million victims of modern slavery in the United States and an estimated 15,000 to 50,000 women and children are trafficked for sex each year. Individuals are enslaved in our communities, and we are not absolved from fighting for them.

***

Myth: Sex trafficking is about sex.

FACT: Human trafficking is an industry, and sex sells.

The Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000 defines sex trafficking as “the recruitment, harboring, transportation, provision, or obtaining of a person for the purposes of a commercial sex act in which the commercial sex act is induced by force, fraud or coercion” (emphasis added). The emphasis on “commercial” is crucial—human trafficking begins when enslaved victims are coerced, used for profit, and estranged from the money they “earn.” Efforts to curb human sex trafficking often focus on the seemingly uncontrolled desire for sex, steering activism away from the root of the problem. The problem is not that sex is desired, but that the desire for sex is exploited to make a profit at the cost of vulnerable individuals. Sex trafficking is only one vein of human trafficking and each form shares one thing in common: traffickers monetarily benefit from the exploitation of others.

***

Myth: Human trafficking is a “male” problem.

FACT: Human trafficking is a “heart” problem. Women are complicit, too.

Society often presents a picture that trafficking is perpetuated by men, hungry for sex and power. The reality, though, as presented above, is that human trafficking is primarily aimed at monetary exploitation. Women have a role in this, too. One study conducted by the United Nations found that 60% of traffickers are women. In many cases, brothel keepers, or “Madams,” are women that oversee the prostitution of other women under their “care.” It is likely that female traffickers are as common as male traffickers, and they often operate together in the context of abusive, hierarchical relationships. Female sex traffickers are often “supporters,” “bottoms,” or “partners in crime.” Often victims of trafficking themselves, they are frequently exploited to perpetuate the cycle of violence by grooming new victims, handling cash, and “advertising.”

***

Myth: Rescue is enough.

FACT: Rescue is only the beginning of a long path towards healing.

Trafficking destroys lives. Victims often exist in a state of social death, having lost their identity as an individual and becoming only what their masters and consumers want them to be. Some survivors, rescued out of slavery, have presented PTSD more severe than that of veterans. Trauma does not dissipate in the hours, days, or even months after a survivor is released from her chains. Arguably, after rescue comes the hardest, messiest work. Just as important as seeking liberation from bondage is coming alongside women as they heal, regain their sense of worth, and work towards building a new life for themselves. If aftercare is ignored, the cycle of violence continues. With nowhere else to go, women often fall back into exploitation. Because of this, WAR, Int’l is committed to breaking chains, establishing circles of protection such as safehouses, and providing vocational training that leads to restored dignity.

Join us in facing the reality and breaking the chains of modern slavery!

Attend a Civilian First Responder Training to learn how you can rise up against trafficking.

Host a pop-up boutique to educate your community and support survivors on their healing journeys.

Read Part Two in the series here.