Human Trafficking Survivor Support

At The Healing Shack, we often talk about healing as a ripple effect. When we care for ourselves, we become more capable of caring for others. When we find steadiness, compassion, and connection within, those gifts naturally extend outward into the world around us.

This year, one of my most devoted students and I have the opportunity to support a cause that feels deeply aligned with those values.

For three weeks in early 2027, Deb Olson and I will travel to Kolkata, India alongside a group of advocates committed to supporting organizations that serve women and children impacted by human trafficking. We will visit and help at the rescue centers which provide safe housing, education, advocacy, and long-term support for individuals rebuilding their lives after unimaginable hardship.

My connection to India runs deep. The teachings and traditions that have shaped my yoga journey have influenced nearly every aspect of how I live, teach, lead, and serve. Supporting this work feels like a meaningful way to honor those roots.

Through The Healing Shack Human Trafficking Advocacy Support Project, we will spend the year raising awareness and financial support for these rescue centers. One way we are raising support is by offering a fundraising event at Toppling Goliath on November 22, 2026. Every effort for this fundraiser is thoughtfully curated to support the women and children being served in Kolkata.

Transparency is important to me. Funds raised through this initiative go directly to the rescue centers and programs; not one cent of your support goes to our travel expenses. Our goal is to ensure that donations make a direct and meaningful impact on the lives of those receiving care and support.

I know there are many worthy causes in the world. What continues to move me about this one is the reminder that healing is not only personal. It is communal. It is global. It asks us to recognize our shared humanity and respond with compassion when we can.

If this mission speaks to you, I invite you to join us. Whether through a donation, attending our event, sharing our efforts with others, or simply learning more, your participation matters.

Thank you for being part of a community that believes healing extends beyond the walls of a studio and into the lives of those who need it most.

With gratitude,

Laura Ollendick
Founder, The Healing Shack