Southwest Airlines and Rescue America: Partnering for Freedom and a New Beginning
At Rescue America, we believe that partnerships make all the difference in helping survivors of human trafficking find freedom and start new lives. One of the most impactful partnerships we’ve developed is with Southwest Airlines, whose unwavering support has transformed how we transport survivors safely to places of healing and restoration.
It all started with a Rescue America board member back in 2020. This board member introduced us to Southwest Airlines, initiating what would become a powerful and meaningful partnership. After several months of discussions and collaboration, the relationship culminated in a pivotal connection between Allison, Rescue America’s founder, and a Southwest Airlines team member based in Denver, who was part of their philanthropic efforts.
Kelly, a Corporate Responsibility Advisor at Southwest Airlines, shared the heart behind their involvement: “Addressing Human trafficking became one of our focus outreach areas about ten years ago. We wanted to understand where we could make a real impact, and transportation seemed like a natural fit. By helping survivors get out of dangerous situations and into a place where they can heal, we can help make a difference.”
The partnership between Southwest Airlines and Rescue America is rooted in the relational approach that we both prioritize. It began small, but as Southwest learned more about the needs in this space, their role has grown each year. Today, they provide safe transportation for survivors, ensuring they can access the care and support they need.
Providing More Than Just a Flight
Southwest Airlines’ involvement goes beyond simply providing flights. Their employees take extra steps to ensure survivors feel safe and cared for throughout their journey. From offering food to lending a supportive ear, Southwest employees form deep and meaningful connections with survivors during what is often a vulnerable and emotional time.
Kelly recalled one particularly moving story: “One of our employees met a survivor during her layover, and by the time the survivor's next flight boarded, they were hugging and crying together. That moment of human kindness and connection is something that makes our work even more impactful.”
For survivors, having someone who truly cares for them during such a critical part of their journey makes all the difference.
A Corporate Commitment to Social Responsibility
Southwest Airlines has long been committed to supporting important social causes, including human trafficking prevention. Kelly shared how the company’s Social Topics Committee, a group of executives focused on social responsibility topics, identified human trafficking as an area where Southwest Airlines could make a difference.
“You don’t want to shy away from the hard conversations, but they’re necessary,” Kelly explained. “We knew we had a responsibility to raise awareness among our employees and customers. We continue to evolve our training and have grown our partnerships with organizations like Rescue America.”
This proactive approach ensures that Southwest Airlines staff are equipped to handle situations with sensitivity and care, creating a ripple effect of awareness and safety across the company’s network.
Making a Difference for Survivors
For survivors of human trafficking, transportation is often the first step in their journey to freedom. Southwest Airlines plays a crucial role in this journey, giving survivors the opportunity to leave their past behind and start a new chapter in their lives.
Kelly expressed how meaningful it is to witness the impact firsthand: “The fact that we can help someone start a new life and find a path to safety and independence—it gives me goosebumps. This is a massive life moment for the survivors, and we get to be part of it. It’s an honor we don’t take lightly.”
Southwest Airlines teams have even participated in Rescue America’s Outreach Hubs, where they volunteer their time to connect directly with the mission. These opportunities allow Southwest employees to humanize the issue of trafficking and see the significance of their work.
As Kelly put it, “It puts everything in perspective when you realize that these survivors could be your neighbor.”
Looking Ahead: The Power of Partnership
For Southwest Airlines, this partnership is about more than just transportation—it’s about being part of something bigger. Kelly explained how working with Rescue America has changed her perspective on both human trafficking and corporate social responsibility.
“When I think about someone showing up to the airport scared, without an ID, it brings a new level of empathy. It reminds me how much we care that people are safe and feel welcomed, no matter what they’ve been through.”
As we continue to work together, both Rescue America and Southwest Airlines are committed to expanding their impact. Southwest encourages other corporations to get involved in similar ways, whether through financial support, employee engagement, or in-kind donations.
“It takes a village,” Kelly said. “Educate yourself on the issue, pay attention, and get involved however you can. Whether you support financially, gather friends for an outreach hub, or volunteer your time, every contribution is life-changing.”
If you or any business or corporation you know is interested in partnering with Rescue America to support survivors of human trafficking, we’d love to hear from you! Together, we can make a meaningful difference. Contact us to learn more about how you can join the fight for freedom.
If you or someone you know have been sexually exploited and want out of the life, please call Rescue America’s 24/7 Rescue hotline number at 833.599.FREE.
To report a trafficking tip, please call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 888.373.7888.
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