When I learned

that there are more children in slavery today than any other time in history, my life changed. I can not turn a blind eye to this tragedy and my life has taken on a new purpose: to raise awareness and educate people about the epidemic of human trafficking.

Enslaved children are being traded like a commodity all over the world, including in the United States which is creating the world's highest demand for child sexual abuse videos. The more people that wake up to this pervasive threat, the more children we can save from being abused.

A community is judged by how we treat our weakest members. These children need our help. They cannot escape their abusers without assistance. Everyone needs to educate themselves about the truths of human trafficking because it is happening in your backyard. Once we see the truth, we can begin to seek justice and heal our children.

It is an honor and a privilege that I can use my talents in jewelry making to raise funds for the mission of saving children. This new commitment has given me a renewed sense of purpose and drive in my business. I chose to pledge a donation to Operation Underground Railroad because I am especially moved by their heroic efforts. In addition to this pledge, I will share educational information and resources about human trafficking on the Topaz & Pearl platforms to help spread awareness.

Thank you for your continued support and for joining me in the fight to save the world's children.

-Julia Cipollone
Founder & Maker