Linda Geffin
Why did you decide to become a part of the CHILDREN AT RISK (C@R) family?
In 2009, after Vince Ryan came into office as the Harris County Attorney, he created a group intended to combat neighborhood nuisances such as businesses that were just fronts for criminal activity. As the lead attorney, I started investigating certain locations and learned, much to my shock that slavery still did exist and it was flourishing in Houston. I knew I had to educate myself, fast, and when I learned about the amazing work that CHILDREN AT RISK was doing, I knew I had found the best source and future partners in the fight to combat human trafficking, especially involving minors.
What are your community activities or hobbies, Linda?
I enjoy speaking to groups to raise awareness about human trafficking.
For relaxation, I like to hang out with my Dobermans, Ziva and Zac. And I like to support groups that support animals.
What has been your greatest accomplishment in your work or life as it relates to children?
I’ve been fortunate to have the opportunity to raise awareness of this heinous crime to the public at large by talking to groups, radio, newspapers and magazines. Every country has laws against human trafficking but they are seldom enforced to the extent they could be. I believe that education of our citizens is an important branch of the army in this fight. The largest audience I reached was in 2011 with an appearance on The Today Show.
What CHILDREN AT RISK issue or area are you most passionate about and why?
CHILDREN AT RISK has taken a strong and unyielding stance in the fight against human trafficking. It is estimated that there are 27 million slaves worldwide and by some estimates, half of that number are children. David Batstone in his 2007 book, Not For Sale, proffered that with the right focus we could end slavery in ten years. CHILDREN AT RISK has the vision and drive to be a major force toward that goal.
When you were a child, what did you dream you would be when you grew up?
I wanted to be a detective. When I was a kid, there was a TV show featuring a female detective with all the cache and accomplishment of James Bond. The idea of a strong woman fighting the bad guys was very appealing to me!
What is your favorite part of the CHILDREN AT RISK mission?
CHILDREN AT RISK takes a holistic approach to children encompassing their health, education, and safety and advocates strongly for all children. CHILDREN AT RISK’S voices are heard and noted every year in Austin with each new legislative session.
What is one reason someone should give their time, effort and support to children?
I’ve been strongly influenced by a quote by Eli Weisel which is:
“There may be times when we are powerless to prevent injustice, but there must never be a time when we fail to protest.”
We live in the greatest country in the world. With all of the wealth in this country, it’s a disgrace that any child should not have enough food to thrive or that there are not enough boots on the ground to see that no child is abused in any way. No human being should be bought and sold like a commodity. Everyone should give of their time to help right this wrong.