From the outside, anyone can tell I’m a nurturer. I love the time spent with my Bella clients, my employees, husband, children, parents and my farm animals throughout my long days.

There’s something wonderful about giving of yourself and providing for another being whether that’s serving as a listening ear or helping resolve a skin care concern. I have a passion for protecting and caring for those I love and I always have.

Looking back, I see that I nurtured and guarded people ever since I was a little girl when I broke up fights on the playground and made sure that no one was left out during recess games. I didn’t know the word injustice back then, but I knew I didn’t like anything that felt unfair.

My parents, Michele and Daniel Rickett, have a thing about injustice, too, which was a catalyst for them to start She Is Safe as a non-profit organization 17 year ago to address the abuse and exploitation of girls and women.

Today, they work so hard with their team across eight countries to educate, equip, rescue and restore “forgotten” females who are ensnared or in danger of becoming victims to sex trafficking, human slavery, domestic violence and childhood marriage. Their mission also addresses basic needs like nutrition, medical care, and education, including micro loans to start a small business. Truly amazing work!

As a mom of two small children, my heart goes out to families affected by these dangers. But I can take some small comfort in the fight that my family and other dedicated people give this crisis in the most desperate areas.

Through She Is Safe, there’s something you and I can do to make a difference. I’m personally inviting you to join me at the annual She Is Safe Gala on October 11 that will be held at The Hotel at Avalon.

The night kicks off with a Sip and Share reception on the hotel’s rooftop terrace, then there’s inspiring dinner and program in the Teasley Ballroom with performances by Harmony: Atlanta’s International Youth Chorus and Sideways Contemporary Dance Company.

Please purchase tickets or join me as a sponsor by visiting the She Is Safe website.

“We are so excited to host this event at Avalon. When the community comes out in support of this mission, you are letting enslaved girls know that help is on the way–from Atlanta to the world! You are helping to provide freedom and dignity to those who would otherwise be trapped in the darkness of slavery. Thank you for joining us to help prevent, rescue and restore women and girls from suffering a lifetime of abuse and exploitation.”
– Michele Rickett, my mom and She Is Safe Founder and CEO

The gala is held on International Day of the Girl, which was designated by the United Nations to highlight and address the needs and challenges girls face. Cities around the globe will host amazing events to promote girls’ empowerment and their human rights.

Our family is proud that Avalon is graciously hosting events leading up to International Day of the Girl – all to support She Is Safe’s cause. So please make your way to Avalon to support my family’s mission and passion.

• Little Acorns, Tuesday, Oct. 8 from 10 a.m. to noon – Bring preschoolers for free playtime in The Plaza and to create butterfly artwork. The event will also feature a special activity for moms and caregivers.
• AvalOM, Wednesday, Oct. 9 from 6 to 7 p.m. – Enjoy yoga in The Plaza, exclusive swag and ways to keep girls safe from human trafficking.
• Avalon Sip & Stroll, Thursday, Oct. 10 from 5 to 8 p.m. – Stroll Avalon Boulevard while sipping on delicious signature cocktails from select retailers and restaurants. A portion of the evening’s sales will be donated to She Is Safe!
• From Avalon to the World: Day of the Girl Celebration, Friday, Oct. 11 at 4:30 p.m. – Gather in The Plaza for the official unveiling of Safe Haven’s Butterfly Sculpture. The beautiful, public display of art signifies that the people at Avalon are educated on the problem and are also a “Safe Haven” for those in peril. Then a butterfly release that symbolizes setting girls free from a life of slavery and trafficking follows!

Our gala is a great way for me to connect with other local small businesses and to make an impact on a very important social cause that impacts Atlanta. Our city is, sadly, a major hub in the U.S. for sex trafficking. It’s important for all of us to be aware and get involved.

Many friends have put this gala on their calendars and already bought tickets. I encourage my other friends to get tickets and my fellow entrepreneurs and colleagues to become sponsors! These events are always educational, inspiring, and empowering to be a part of!