Automating Deterrence: youthSpark's Innovative Approach to Combat Human Trafficking

youthSpark is a Georgia-based organization that is at the forefront of the fight against human trafficking. They are dedicated to transforming the lives of youths at risk for exploitation and abuse. The organization has established itself as a thought leader in reducing child exploitation and sex trafficking rates not only in Georgia but across the country. Part of their mission involves the development of innovative initiatives, such as Demand Tracker, aimed at deterring potential traffickers and buyers. Despite their lack of software development expertise, they were able to successfully implement this automated system.

youthSpark, a leading innovator in the fight against human trafficking based in Georgia, had a mission to reduce the rate of exploitation and abuse of youths. As part of this mission, they conceived an idea for an automated deterrent initiative, known as Demand Tracker. The system would involve posting decoy ads to attract potential traffickers and buyers, recording their phone numbers, and sending them a deterrence message. However, the organization faced a significant challenge: how to build this automated system without the help of software developers. Finding a developer who could meet their specific needs, within their budget, and with the available time to commit to the project was proving to be an insurmountable task.

The solution to youthSpark's challenge came in the form of two applications: Twilio, a Communications APIs provider, and Airtable, a database builder. The organization connected these two applications using Zapier, an app automation tool, and a couple of Zaps, which serve as bridges between two or more apps. This setup allowed any calls made to a Twilio phone number to be logged in Airtable, thereby building the Demand Tracker's database one call at a time. Once a new row was added to the Airtable, Zapier would automatically send a text to that number, alerting the caller that they had been added to Demand Tracker. This innovative solution enabled youthSpark to create a potentially powerful deterrent system without the need for software development expertise.

• The implementation of the Demand Tracker system has been a significant success for youthSpark. Despite the initial challenge of lacking software development expertise, the organization was able to leverage existing applications and automation tools to create a powerful deterrent system. This system not only records the phone numbers of potential traffickers and buyers but also sends them a warning message, thereby serving as a proactive measure in the fight against human trafficking. The success of this initiative underscores the organization's innovative approach to tackling this serious issue and their commitment to protecting at-risk youths.

• The system was developed and implemented within a few weeks.

• The system has the potential to deter thousands of prospective predators.