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Community Corner—Organization for Prostitution Survivors

Community Corner highlights the work of Seattle Human Services’ community partners in their own words. Our goal is to gather stories and photos that illustrate their amazing work on behalf of the people of Seattle. This post was written by Rekina Perry, Executive Director of the Organization for Prostitution Survivors.

Graphic images of women of many different races across a digital banner with the logo for Organization for Prostitution Survivors (OPS) and a quote from an OPS participant "I can't believe this place exists. I thought I was alone out there."

What is the role your organization fulfills in your community?

The Organization for Prostitution Survivors (OPS) plays a critical role in empowering individuals affected by commercial sexual exploitation (CSE) and gender-based violence (GBV). By offering trauma-informed care, survivor-led advocacy, and holistic support, OPS creates pathways to immediate safety and long-term stability. Our work is rooted in addressing systemic oppression, fostering resilience, and advocating for a world where individuals can live free from exploitation and violence.

Brightly painted and decorated women's high heeled shoes hanging on a ledge
Therapeutic Art Workshop pieces by OPS participants. Photo Credit: OPS

How does your partnership with Seattle Human Services (HSD) assist you in that role?

Our partnership with HSD amplifies our ability to address the unique needs of survivors in Seattle. HSD funding allows us to expand vital services such as mobile advocacy, therapeutic programs, and street-based outreach, ensuring survivors have access to safety, stability, and healing. This collaboration bridges service gaps and creates culturally responsive solutions that uplift historically underserved communities.

What is your organization’s origin story?

OPS was founded by a survivor of commercial sexual exploitation and allies. Noel Gomez, Peter Qualliotine, Martha Linehan, and other invaluable supporters recognized a critical gap in services tailored to the experiences of the women who were caught in the intersectionalities of gender-based violence and exploitation. With a mission to support survivors “where they are,” OPS began as a grassroots effort to provide advocacy and healing spaces for individuals impacted by CSE. Over time, the organization evolved into a survivor-led agency committed to dismantling the systems of violence that perpetuate exploitation and offering a voice to those often silenced.

How has your organization grown or developed in recent years?

Nearly three dozen backpacks of all different colors arranged on top of a table with a banner from Organization for Prostitution Survivors on the front
Back to School Backpack Giveaway. Photo Credit: OPS

In recent years, OPS has expanded its staff and services to meet the increasing demand for support. This includes hiring specialized advocates, introducing a mental health and wellness program, and enhancing outreach efforts in high-risk areas such as Aurora Avenue. Additionally, we’ve deepened our partnerships with local organizations, ensuring a more comprehensive response to survivors’ needs.

Why is it important for HSD and City of Seattle taxpayers to invest in community-led work?

Community-led work ensures that solutions are grounded in lived experience, making them more effective and sustainable. Investments in organizations like OPS allow for innovative, culturally responsive approaches that address the root causes of disparities. These investments create a ripple effect of empowerment and systemic change by prioritizing survivor leadership and centering marginalized voices.

How do your programs and services help to reduce the disparities experienced by people of color in our region?

OPS actively works to reduce disparities by providing culturally conscious services that address the intersections of racism, misogyny, and economic inequity. With 80% of our participants identifying as Black, Indigenous, or other People of Color, we focus on meeting the specific needs of these communities through targeted outreach, trauma-informed care, and advocacy. Our programs are designed to dismantle barriers to safety, stability, and healing, creating equitable access to resources and opportunities.

Tell us an example of how an HSD-funded program or service impacted one of your community members.

Large room with string of colored lights, a mirror, racks of clothing along the walls and a bookshelf with pairs of shoes on it along with a tall sign listing affirmative phrases like "Use King Words," "Say I Love You," and "Be Grateful"
OPS Shop clothing closet. Photo Credit: OPS

A young woman experiencing homelessness and exploitation on Aurora Avenue reached out to our helpline for support. Through HSD-funded mobile advocacy, we were able to connect her with emergency housing, provide transportation assistance, and facilitate access to medical care. Over time, she participated in our support groups and developed a safety plan with her advocate. Today, she is on a path to stability and healing, working toward her educational and career goals. This story is one of the many that we get to walk alongside. Each goal is met with unconditional positive regard and support, and we assist in removing barriers encountered along the way.

What motivates your staff or keeps you going?

Our staff is motivated by the resilience of survivors and the opportunity to witness their transformation. Knowing that our work creates tangible change—whether it’s providing immediate safety, fostering long-term stability, or helping survivors reclaim their agency—fuels our commitment. The shared vision of a world free from exploitation and the sense of community within OPS also inspire us to keep pushing forward.