Surviving childhood sex trafficking

CAGLCC member Tina Frundt, 36, mother of two, is a survivor of childhood sex trafficking. At the age of 14, Tina was forced into prostitution for six years. In 2000, she became a national advocate committed to helping children and women living through experiences similar to her own. Tina has testified before Congress about the need for greater protection and services for those forced into sex trafficking. In addition, she has appeared on the Oprah Winfrey and Montel Williams shows, CNN and in Redbook magazine. Most recently, she received the Frederick Douglass Award from Free The Slaves, which recognizes survivors of sex trafficking. She is the first U.S. citizen to receive the award.

In 2008, after a lifetime of survival in the face of adversity, Frundt founded Courtney’s House, a non-profit organization providing services for domestic trafficked youth. Services and programs available through Courtney’s House include a group home in Virginia for girls from 12-18 years. Non-resident services are also available for girls, boys, and transgender individuals.

Tina is confident when she says, “Starting Courtney’s House is the best decision I ever made,” but also realistic when she cautions, “There’s opposition even when you are doing good.” Learn more about Tina Frundt’s story and Courtney’s House on www.courtneyshouse.org.

CAGLCC PROGRAMS AND EVENTS

“Let me know when your whole life goes up in smoke. Means it’s time for a promotion.”

Stanley Tucci’s character, Nigel, in “The Devil Wears Prada” comforted Andrea (Anne Hathaway) as her professional life began to soar and her personal life suffered. Andrea was chasing that elusive balance of success in the office and at home.

“It is difficult,” says Megan Wallace of Wallace Law, LLC. “I serve on three boards, run a law office, meet with clients, and then take care of our two daughters and my partner. By the end of the day, sometimes I am just exhausted, but I love what I do.” Balancing Work and the rest of Life was the topic at a recent Triangle Business Advisory Council (TBAC) meeting.

CAGLCC President Kenneth White, agrees. His recent move to New Business Development at Signal Financial Credit Union requires so much energy and time that often there is limited time for family.

“If you love what you do both at work and during non-work hours, then balancing is not as stressful, ” added Eileen Kessler, president of OmniStudio. Having an integrated approach, where your relationships outside the office overlap with your business world, make for a very fulfilling life.

“We have date night every Tuesday,” said District Title founder Steven Sushner. He and his partner of 10 years, Adam, have carved out time in their schedule to make certain they have time to connect. “No matter what, we have date night.”

Licensed Counselor, Doug Nelson, added, “People have to decide for themselves what healthy balance looks like. You have to ensure that physical, emotional, intellectual, social and spiritual needs are all taken care of, and that requires your attention.”

CAGLCC MEMBER NEWS

A great chance to take a look at what your future holds, the all day workshop, “Discovering the Man I AM,” is returning in July. Contact Marc Gravellese at
marc@focus1coaching.com.

Ernesto Santalla’s work is on view at Long View Gallery, displaying an architectural vignette that explores the role of art in interior design. The show runs through Aug. 1. For gallery hours go to www.longviewgallerydc.com.

Dr. Howard Brooks, M.D. and SKIN Cosmetic Dermatology host “A Vanity Affair” on July 21, starting at 5:30 pm. Be one of the first 100 attendees and receive a complimentary one-month supply of Latisse! RSVP is required; call 202-298-7546.

CAGLCC’s next Networking Thursday is Aug. 12 at 6:30 p.m. on the rooftop of Signal Financial Federal Credit Union, 1401 Eye Street, N.W.

CAGLCC means business. www.caglcc.org