This summer, a global event will bring excitement and celebration to communities worldwide: the FIFA World Cup 2026. The tournament will take place from June 11 to July 19, 2026, and will be hosted across 16 cities in North America—11 in the United States, 3 in Mexico, and 2 in Canada. It will be a remarkable international celebration of sport, culture, and connection.

While this event will bring many positive opportunities, it also raises important concerns that communities should not ignore. Karen Mendrala, a resident and volunteer representative for ReHope involved in the World Cup initiative, along with Jason Alvis, ReHope's CEO, are helping raise awareness of one of those concerns: the increased risk of human trafficking during large-scale global events.

As Karen explains, events of this size can create conditions that increase vulnerability. Large numbers of people traveling to one or several locations over a concentrated period can place additional pressure on communities and create opportunities for exploitation. In particular, the increased movement of visitors with spending power for entertainment and sporting events can drive greater demand for illegal activities. At the same time, expanded job opportunities in hospitality, tourism, and service industries can sometimes be used to target vulnerable individuals. Some people may travel expecting legitimate work opportunities, only to find themselves exploited, stripped of documentation, and deprived of their freedom and autonomy.

These examples reflect just a few of the ways that traffickers may take advantage of major events and shifting conditions. That is why proactive preparation matters.

As Karen shares, “Establishing the WARS Council was the first point of preparation for the World Cup, but we are also increasing our communications and meetings with law enforcement and healthcare entities.” This initiative began several years ago in anticipation of the increased need to support survivors of human trafficking. The organizations that make up the WARS Council each already serve important roles in aftercare and survivor support, and the council allows them to work together more efficiently while ensuring expert coverage in every area of need.

This coordinated effort is only the beginning of a broader strategy. It includes stronger communication with law enforcement and healthcare partners, an expansion of crisis stabilization capacity from 4 rooms to 20, and the mobilization of additional volunteers to meet increased logistical and support needs that may arise. Still, Karen emphasizes that one of the most important goals is building an informed and aware community—one that understands what to look for and how to respond.

The expanded room facility is a vital part of this effort and is designed to provide immediate resources and support to survivors. “The first and foremost thing that our location is going to offer is safety,” Karen says. It is also a place where the next steps can begin to take shape. Using a holistic approach, the staff assesses the type of care each survivor may need to support both safety and recovery. That care may include documentation assistance, medical attention, access to safe contacts, therapists, on-site advocates, and other essential services that help survivors begin moving toward restoration. Although this support may begin in a temporary setting, the organization’s work is grounded in empathy and compassion, and they anticipate helping many people escape exploitation and begin rebuilding their lives.

Residents can also get involved in meaningful ways to support this important work. Volunteer opportunities are available at https://rehope.org/world-cup/, and each can make a real difference in the lives of those affected. Interested individuals can explore roles based on their interests and availability, with opportunities assigned according to current needs and volunteer preferences. In addition, an all-day Anti-Trafficking Symposium will be held on May 9 at the Stoney Creek Hotel in Independence, bringing together multiple nonprofits to help educate the community. Event details and tickets are available here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/not-on-my-watch-anti-trafficking-symposium-tickets-1986010153832

 

Thanks to Karen Mendrala and the entire WARS Council, our community is reminded of the importance of awareness, education, and collective responsibility. Their work underscores the essential role of communities in preventing trafficking. As Karen says, “We’re hoping that the community takes away a better reassurance that Kansas City is aware of and addressing trafficking issues.” She also emphasizes that awareness of updates and trends, and of the multifaceted approaches traffickers take, is essential to our community’s shared knowledge and strengthens our ability to push back against this crime.