Combating evil... saving children...fighting for the helpless... Sentinel Foundation

I had the chance to connect with Billy Cipriani , Jameson Govoni , and Andrew Guenther with the Sentinel Foundation .

The Sentinel Foundation was founded with one goal in mind – to end underage children being exploited around the world. While this cause isn’t new, their method to achieve it is. They have the personnel, technology, the law enforcement support, and more importantly the perseverance to see it through. The Sentinel Foundation Operations team focuses on targeting elusive child traffickers that use highly skilled methods to find and exploit their victims. Children in underdeveloped and under-resourced countries have virtually no defense against these networks. Each member of the Sentinel Operations team brings the highest level of experience in their respective fields. Combined, their team's operationally relevant and combat proven experience allows them to adapt to any situation and understand the mindset needed to track down and apprehend sex traffickers.

Q: Tell me about your business and what separates you from your competition?

A: The Sentinel Foundation is dedicated to rescuing children globally from child sex trafficking and exploitation. What sets us apart is our strategic goal, which is to focus on proactive humanitarian operations in high-risk regions, offender identification, intelligence mapping, practical training, and collaborative efforts to bring offenders to justice. Our multi-disciplinary team of experts in military special operations, intelligence, psychology, and criminal investigation distinguishes our approach, enabling us to operate effectively in challenging environments.

Q: How do you build culture, relationships, and teams inside and outside of your organization?

A: The culture at the Sentinel Foundation is built on conviction, commitment, and the mantra of 'the deed, not the glory.' We foster relationships and teamwork through shared goals and mutual respect, extending this ethos beyond our organization by collaborating closely with law enforcement, NGOs, and in-need communities. Our partnerships, both domestic and international, emphasize collective action and support, reinforcing our mission's impact.

Q: Who or what has influenced your leadership ethos?

Appreciating, recognizing, and leveraging the strengths of our people gives Sentinel a commitment to making a significant impact, which drives prioritizing action.

A: The pressing global issue of child exploitation and the urgent need for action influence our leadership ethos. The dedication of our team members, whose diverse and varied backgrounds and training shapes our leadership approach. Appreciating, recognizing, and leveraging the strengths of our people gives Sentinel a commitment to making a significant impact, which drives prioritizing action.

Q: What are you expecting out of 2024 and how will that impact your business?

A: In 2024, we anticipate increased awareness and action against child sex trafficking, aligning with our strategic goal of expanding our reach and impact. This focus will enhance our ability to rescue more children, support law enforcement in apprehending offenders, and contribute to the healing journey of survivors. The growing recognition of this issue will also bolster our efforts to form new partnerships and strengthen existing ones.

Q: What strategies do you employ to cultivate strong relationships and partnerships with stakeholders, donors, and community members?

A: We prioritize transparency, shared objectives, and collaborative initiatives to cultivate strong relationships with stakeholders, donors, and community members. By offering educational awareness, providing operational support, and engaging in public/private partnerships, we ensure that our collective efforts are geared toward making a tangible difference in the fight against child exploitation.?

Our recent partnership with various wonderful Austin executives demonstrates that we like to engage with our donors and supporters in the same way we run the company. As an example, we, along with our Austin-based group of volunteers, are creating an ambassador program dedicated to raising awareness, funds, and exposure to our mission.?

Q: How do you stay informed about developments and trends in the nonprofit sector and incorporate this knowledge into your leadership approach?

A: Staying informed involves continuous learning, networking, and participating in sector-specific forums and discussions. We incorporate this knowledge by adapting our strategies to meet evolving challenges, leveraging new technologies, and enhancing our operational capabilities. This adaptive approach ensures that our leadership remains dynamic and effective.

Q: What do you work for and what do you do for fun??

We work for the mission of rescuing children from exploitation and trafficking, a cause that unites and motivates us deeply.

A: We work for the mission of rescuing children from exploitation and trafficking, a cause that unites and motivates us deeply. For fun, our team values spending time with family, engaging in physical activities, and pursuing hobbies that rejuvenate our spirits and strengthen our resolve.

Q: What insights have you gained during your years of involvement with the Sentinel Foundation?

We've learned that every child rescued is a victory.

A: Years with the Sentinel Foundation have reinforced the importance of resilience, the power of collaboration, and the impact of dedicated action. We've learned that every child rescued is a victory and that our comprehensive approach—from rescue to rehabilitation—makes a lasting difference.

Q: Can you discuss the role of technology in both facilitating and combating human trafficking?

A: Technology plays a dual role; it can facilitate trafficking through digital platforms and be a powerful tool in combating this crime. We leverage technology for intelligence gathering, operational planning, and increasing public awareness. By leveraging the skills of our Subject Matter Experts, we aim to use advanced tools to track and dismantle trafficking networks while protecting and empowering survivors.

Q: How do you ensure the protection and empowerment of survivors of human trafficking in their journey towards recovery and reintegration into society?

A: We ensure protection and empowerment through quarterbacking comprehensive support services, including mental health assessments through our clinical psychologist, Dr. Ashley Poklar. Collaborating with NGOs and leveraging community resources, we focus on creating safe environments where survivors can heal and regain autonomy, emphasizing their strengths and resilience throughout recovery.

Q: What are the signs and red flags that individuals, communities, and businesses should be aware of to identify potential cases of human trafficking?

A: Signs include individuals who appear controlled or coerced, lack personal possessions, show signs of physical abuse, and have inconsistent stories. Businesses should watch for unusual work hours, living conditions, and restricted communication. Communities can help by being vigilant of these red flags and reporting suspicious activities to authorities. Communicate, have the courage to speak up, and look out for one another!

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Thank you for contributing to this series, Billy, Jameson, and Andrew.

Sentinel Foundation invites you to take part and support their mission here .

And thank you @zilkermedia for making this newsletter possible!?

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