Doing Human Trafficking Work in the State of Iowa - A Conversation With Dr. George Belitsos

Welcome to The “Center” – I’m your host Marsha Thrall. On today’s episode of The “Center” we’re joined by Dr. George Belitsos, current chair of the Board of Directors for the Iowa Network Against Human Trafficking and Slavery. Dr. George, as he is affectionately referred to by colleagues and friends, is the founder and Executive Director - Emeritus of Youth and Shelter Services (YSS) based in Ames, IA. It was Dr. George’s experience with at-risk youth at YSS, including LGBTQIA+ youth who were often forced into situations of human trafficking, that led Dr. George to found the Iowa Network Against Human Trafficking and Slavery, a statewide organization that advocates for legislation that protects those victimized by human trafficking in all of its forms. Since its founding in 2005, INAHT has worked to have 20+ pieces of legislation passed in the state of Iowa, including legislation that increases the number of penalties a person convicted of trafficking can face if convicted under human trafficking charges, and Safe Harbor legislation which protects underage persons victimized by human trafficking.

In his retirement, Dr. George lives with his husband Peter at Hobbit’s Hill, a 25-acre farm dedicated to housing and raising rescue llamas, goats, and chickens. Welcome Dr. George Belitsos!

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