Mentari is one of the most professional and important non-profit organizations in the country. I have seen firsthand the incredible work they have done to assist survivors of human sex and labor trafficking feel seen, heard and loved. The programs they provide to assist survivors long term are invaluable and so needed for the stability and healing of these victims. Mentari fully understand the trauma informed aspect and walks every step of the way to encourage and empower survivors in their healed state of being. Truly, one of the best and most transparent non-profits I have had the pleasure to work with.
I have found Mentari to be an incredible resource and family for its clients and volunteers. They help build communities and free people from some of the trauma that has brought them to this organization.
Mentari is truly an organization that is helping so many lives. The organization makes long lasting impact in every life that connects with the amazing community. They truly go above and beyond and have created a community based on unconditional love, support, mentorship, guidance, and empowerment. Through the empowerment programs and the leadership of guidance from Mentari's board members, I have witnessed the safe space that the organization holds for all individuals to heal through their personal journey. The self-care, self-love, wellness, art, and culinary arts programs has truly allowed so many survivors to reintegrate into the community with full support to succeed and get their dream jobs. I am in awe of the work that the founders, volunteers, board members, and community put every day into this organization. The Mentari housing has provided a place that so many can call home, and everyone has become such a wonderful family. The amount of service the Mentari community has given and continues to give is unmeasurable.
I have worked with Mentari leadership for years and appreciate their heart for collaboration to help survivors thrive! We hope constituents will see the value of Mentari and invest in their program.
I assisted a friend to get housing into Mentari. Shandra was responsive, helpful and available to make the transition possible. The community there is safe, clean and offers independence for the residents. Plus, I think their vision of helping the women to discover their new freedom at a pace they're able to take realistically is very supportive and affirming.
I've seen the growth of Mentari, from the numbers of staff, donors, volunteers, and survivor clients served. Form the culinary Arts program participant, 96 percent received employments and it helped reducing poverty. We served more than 12 survivors who stay in our transitional home with the purpose of reducing homelessness.
I have been documenting Mentari's culinary art program earlier this year. I had a great time working with Mentari. The culinary art program is well thought-out and run, and participants gained a number of practical skills during the training. A lot of them now hold jobs. Women who were trafficked are now waitresses, chefs, or are enrolled in academic courses. It's compelling to witness the confidence Mentari's clients gain over the months, as well as the control they got back over their own lives. I truly think Mentari is making a difference in the fight against human trafficking in the US.
