Micah’s Promise: A Mission to Restore Hope and Combat Child Trafficking in Georgia

By Janell Williams

In the fight against domestic sex trafficking of minors, one Columbus-based nonprofit is working to bring hope and restoration to young survivors. Micah’s Promise is working to combat this problem through education, advocacy and therapeutic care for survivors.

Founder and Executive Director Bobbi Starr began the journey with the organization in 2009 after attending a National Center for Victims of Crime conference in New Orleans. Starr saw the need for therapeutic treatment facilities for rescued children.

"I realized that all the presenters were from Atlanta, and I asked them, how Columbus could help," Starr said. "They told me that there was a need for therapeutic placement, that the justice system was victimizing the kids, that they were being arrested for prostitution and solicitation as young as 9 and 10 years old."

She pursued and obtained a bachelors of science degree in sociology and a master's degree in public administration and justice, tailoring her training and education to the issues around child sex trafficking.

"I came home and couldn't stop thinking about it. I knew I could tell people about it, and so I also decided to go back to school. I got my undergrad and learned as much as I could so that people would take me seriously when I was telling them about it because for years, nobody believed it happened here," Starr said.

Micah’s Promise was founded to address the growing crisis of child trafficking in Georgia and beyond. The organization was established in response to the lack of specialized care and resources for minors affected by sex trafficking.

"It is heavy work, but it's worth it," said Education and Outreach Coordinator Dr. Brett Murphy-Dawson. "Knowing that this environment is the devil's playground; breaking up families and hindering youth, has also kept us guided by God. He's opened and closed doors for us that only He can."

Since its inception, Micah’s Promise has worked to educate the public, advocate for stronger protections, and provide long-term care for survivors. The organization operates a therapeutic residential home for girls ages 12-17, offering them a safe place to heal while receiving specialized counseling, education and life skills training.

Beyond direct care, Micah’s Promise plays a crucial role in raising awareness about domestic sex trafficking of children. The organization partners with multiple local schools, churches and community groups to educate parents and young people about the risks of exploitation.

"I would love to get everyone in the community, surrounding communities, their administration and the school board involved," said administrative assistant Alaya Tyler. "I think having those curricula in place, being taught by someone of our team, and just having every young child in our city... The children know that they deserve to know how to be safe."

Additionally, Micah’s Promise has begun to work alongside lawmakers and law enforcement to strengthen policies and improve resources for survivors. Their advocacy efforts have helped bring attention to the challenges victims face in escaping trafficking and reintegrating into society.

Despite its successes, Micah’s Promise continues to face challenges, including funding needs, legal hurdles and the ongoing fight against trafficking networks. The organization relies heavily on community support to sustain its programs.

"It's so invaluable keeping kids safe prior to a situation occurring as opposed to having to help put together what was left," Tyler said.

One of their most successful programs is their annual Hope and Healing luncheon. This year the keynote speaker is Demi Tebow.

"I am excited about implementing different step-down programs for the girls," Program Director Katie Womack said. "We always talk about helping them plan their next steps as they transition into normality with things like going to regular school or setting and reaching their goals."

Looking ahead, Micah’s Promise plans to expand its residential services, enhance prevention programs and strengthen its advocacy efforts to further combat child exploitation.

"I am looking forward to more program development therapies. We currently have therapies like our garden and our equine therapy," said Development Director Audra Cozart. "I'd like to add more, like music therapy, art therapy and other enhancements that come along. As we expand, I'd like the community to understand the value of those methods."

Micah’s Promise encourages the public to get involved by volunteering, donating or spreading awareness. More information about their programs and ways to support its mission can be found on the official website.

"We want to eradicate child trafficking in our community and we do so by our values: Act justly, love mercy and walk humbly," said Starr.