North Star Initiative (NSI), a nonprofit that works in both Berks and Lancaster counties and provides housing and restoration programming for trafficking survivors, will hold Welcome to the Battle on Thursday, Jan. 29, from 6 to 8 p.m. at LCBC Ephrata, 5 Hahnstown Road.

For the first time, the annual event will feature a panel led entirely by professionals with lived experience. These survivor leaders will equip audience members with current facts about human trafficking and insights into how to protect the community from exploitation.

The event will also include light refreshments; access to multiple local anti-trafficking organizations; and the opportunity to shop at Florissant Collective, NSI's social enterprise that empowers survivors to pursue their dreams.

The event is free, but attendees are asked to register at http://www.northstarinitiative.org/events. Attendees have the option to purchase a ticket and receive complimentary apparel and merchandise.

January is recognized by the Department of Health and Human Services as National Human Trafficking Prevention Month. Throughout the month, NSI is sponsoring a series of ads and talks to educate the community to recognize warning signs and prevent exploitation. NSI's staff members are available throughout the year to provide free awareness and education events to local businesses, churches, organizations, and agencies throughout Lancaster and Berks counties.