Moved to care with sensitivity as we engage in people’s stories, we hope to be people of compassion. Compassion motivates us to act with giving hearts and kind, understanding acceptance. We want to be known as people of compassion.
Have you ever met someone who embodies genuine care? Someone who quietly and selflessly gives – not for the recognition, but because they just want to love people well? If you’ve ever met Omar Martin, you have met such a person. Over the past decade, Omar has consistently supported and advocated for Allies in countless ways through volunteering his time, helping raise awareness, galvanizing his community and donating financially. Last summer, Omar even donated a bike to a mentee who needed transportation. His consistent presence is an encouragement to us at Allies.
We asked Omar to share with us about the unique ways he has contributed over the years and what his experience in the Allies community has been like. We hope his story will inspire you to find unique ways to be part of the mission to empower survivors.
1. How did you first hear about Allies ( formerly Purchased)? What compelled you to take a first step and reach out?
I heard about Purchased at Common Ground Christian Church. I had not heard about many organizations dealing with human trafficking, and the ones I had only needed financial support. The invite from Purchased was more personal. They asked me to learn, care, and share that knowledge with others.
2. What was your initial involvement with Allies? How has it evolved over the years, and how has that experienced affected you personally?
It’s honestly hard to remember what came first. We had someone from Purchased visit our house church to help us learn more. I helped out at fundraiser events like Illuminate. And I donated throughout that time, as that is also important.
3. Over the years, you’ve introduced others to Allies through kickball, sharing on social media, and inviting others to get involved. What has that experience been like, and how have others responded?
It’s been wonderful. Kickball has become an annual tradition with our community, and always brings together new and old players. Other people have been supportive and excited to be part in small ways.
4. Why do you think it’s important for males to be involved in an organization like Allies? What advice or words of encouragement do you have for other guys who might not know how to take a step to support this cause?
We have to be honest with ourselves. A lot of trafficking revolves around the will and desires of men. So much of this industry would be gone without the money, without the demand. We must be part of the solution. Not all men, certainly, but too many men. I would encourage guys to take small steps, push back against insensitive jokes, call each other to be better. As our confidence grows, we stand up in bigger ways, and eventually call others with us.
It’s not how much we give, but how much love we put in the doing ~ that’s compassion in action.– Mother Theresa