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About us

We are committed to preventing child trafficking by empowering vulnerable young people, collaborating with our partners, and educating our community to create a safer, brighter future for every child.
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Our Mission

Our mission is to prevent child trafficking by empowering young people to protect themselves and by educating and engaging the community to recognize the signs and to take safe and responsible action. Please join us.
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Our Vision

We envision neighborhoods where every child grows up knowing they are loved, valued, and safe, and every community stands united to protect them. Together, we’re ending child trafficking through education, collaboration, and healthy connection.

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Our Goal

The ultimate goal of Alliance for Child Protection is to create safe, effective and easy-to-implement programs that can be replicated in communities throughout the US.
The Dedicated leaders

Our Board Members: Fighting Against Child Trafficking

Dedicated leaders driving our mission forward. Their expertise and commitment shape strategies to protect and empower vulnerable youth.
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Rhonda Sciortino

co-founder

About me
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Alicia Brown

Board Chair

About me
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Greg Lindsey

Secretary

About me
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Yvonne Petersen

Treasurer

About me
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Sharelle Mendenhall

Board Member

About me
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Marie St. John Gray

Board Member

About me
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Kim Laub

Board Member

About me
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Sonny Vinuya

Board Member

About me
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Melissa Wilkinson

Board Member

About me
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Diana Ritchie

Executive Director

About me
kindness with dignity empowers

A Stranger's Kindness: Clothing as a Shield Against Trafficking

When I was eight years old, homelessness was my reality. Days blurred into months as I wore the same clothes, unable to escape the dirt that clung to me or the shame that weighed down my young shoulders. School became a battlefield of mockery, and the gaze of my teachers seemed to slide off me, unable to meet my eyes. But then, amidst the despair of a public park that I called home, a moment of kindness changed everything. A lady, a stranger with compassion in her eyes, handed me a box of clothes. The jeans were too short, the t-shirts hugged me tightly, yet as I emerged from that park bathroom, transformed into these ‘highwaters’ and snug shirts, I felt an indescribable shift within me. For the first time in a long while, I felt clean; I could lift my head high, buoyed by the simple yet profound act of kindness from someone who owed me nothing.
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This encounter sparked a transformation not just in my appearance, but in my spirit. It empowered me to stand a little taller, to face the world with a newfound resilience. The generosity of a stranger armed me with a shield against exploitation, allowing me to evade the sinister intentions of traffickers not once, but twice. This profound impact of dignity, gifted in the form of clothing, is the heartbeat of our mission at Vegas Cares Boutique. We strive to be that beacon of hope and protection for others, using the power of connection and clothing to fortify the vulnerable against the shadows that lurk. Join us in weaving a fabric of compassion and empowerment, helping to transform victims into survivors, and survivors into champions of their own destinies.
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Rhonda Sciortino

Rhonda Sciortino was in the child welfare system after being abandoned by her mother as a young child. She was raised by a mentally ill man and an addicted woman—her maternal grandparents. She emancipated at the age of 16, became the youngest licensed insurance agent in California at 17, launched Child Welfare Insurance Services to help manage risk of child welfare organizations, and became a national child advocate. Rhonda spent the next 30+ years analyzing the ways that children and caregivers get injured or killed in out-of-home placement. From the tragic data gathered, Rhonda and her team created risk management trainings to prevent tragedy in foster care. 
 
Rhonda sold her company and founded Successful Survivors Foundation, an educational 501 c 3 organization that is dedicated to helping survivors of childhood trauma mine the lessons out of their experiences and use them to create good lives while helping others. The primary initiative of SSF is the Love Is Action Community Initiative, which helps people in communities throughout the US fight the societal ills that harm children and families. 
Her "Why"

Rhonda helped to launch the Alliance for Child Protection Community Initiative because child trafficking is preventable if citizens rise up and announce that OUR CHILDREN ARE NOT FOR SALE. We can educate the community on the 4 most common signs of possible trafficking and the 1 action to take. We can, and must, educate children on the 5 most common tricks of traffickers so that they are empowered to protect themselves. But that’s not enough.

To build a protective fence around the children in our community, we must identify the most vulnerable children, beginning with those who are homeless and unaccompanied, and provide healthy connection, new clothing in a shame-free boutique, and information on designated Safe Places, the tricks of traffickers, and give them a blueprint for their own Safety Plan. These things will empower them to protect themselves and equip them to educate their peers in a way that adults never could.

Alicia Brown

I spent a lifetime as an educator. I moved to Las Vegas and became a realtor. I’ve made Las Vegas, Nevada my home. It’s heartbreaking to know that my new home town has become a place where traffickers and buyers buy and sell children. It’s unconscionable to think that the children here not safe from traffickers.

I have served in the past with Teens Who Care, Relay for Life, the Symphony League, the American Heart Association, and on Rotary and Chambers of Commerce. All of those organizations do important work. But preventing the buying and selling of children feels different to me. With the life expectancy of a trafficked child estimated at only 7 years, the work of Alliance for Child Protection can literally be life saving.

My "Why"
I joined this effort because I want to lend my expertise and experience to the meaningful work of educating young people on the tricks that traffickers use to lure them into a life of slavery. By educating and connecting with vulnerable young people, we are empowering them to better protect themselves. That matters.

Greg Lindsey

Greg Lindsey has made Henderson his home for the past 25 years. With over 34 years of investigative experience, he specializes in civil rights cases as an investigator at a local law firm. Additionally, Greg co-owns and operates The Lindsey Real Estate Group, which is dedicated to helping seniors achieve their goals in selling and downsizing their homes, underscoring his commitment to the community’s elders. He is married to Ashley Lindsey, and together they are well-known figures in the Las Vegas community, balancing professional achievements with a committed partnership.

My "Why"

The catalyst for my commitment was a profoundly impactful film (Sounds of Freedom) that opened my eyes to the harsh realities of child trafficking. This film not only portrayed the brutal challenges faced by victims but also highlighted the extraordinary efforts of those working to combat this grave issue. It was a poignant reminder of the vulnerability of children across the globe and the critical need for protection and advocacy.

The reason for my resolve goes deeper than the immediate emotional response to a film. As a member of Alliance for Child Protection, I feel a moral obligation to protect the most vulnerable among us. The thought of children—innocent, defenseless, and devoid of any means to escape such horrors—being subjected to such exploitation is something I cannot silently tolerate.

Moreover, my desire to support anti-child trafficking efforts is fueled by the belief that every child deserves a safe environment to grow, learn, and thrive. The idea that any child would be deprived of their basic rights and freedoms is a stark contradiction to the values I hold dear. It compels me to act, to contribute in whatever way I can to ensure a safer, more just world.

Supporting Alliance for Child Protection, which leads the charge in fighting child trafficking, is one way I believe I can make a substantial impact and create sustainable changes through education and advocacy that prevent trafficking from occurring in the first place.

Yvonne Petersen

Yvonne Petersen was adopted at the age of 2 months old by her foster parents who could not have children of their own. Yvonne’s biological mother was only 16 years old when she was sexually abused. Her mom was taken advantage of by someone she trusted. She didn’t tell anyone about her pregnancy until her 9th month and once she admitted it, she was sent to a home until baby was born. Yvonne grew up in a very diverse household full of children and teenagers throughout her whole life. All of whom had been through a lot.

Yvonne has always had a passion for working with children. She volunteered to teach Sunday School classes and worked over the summer at the local grammar school as a teacher’s assistant. Yvonne planned to be a teacher, but her plans changed when she married at a young age and started a family. When Yvonne and her husband separated, she and her three children lost their car and home. Thankfully an aunt was willing to take them in. After her divorce, Yvonne went back to work and to school at night and earned her bachelor’s degree in business administration. After working as an Executive Assistant for Southern California Edison for 14 years, Yvonne joined forces with her new husband, and has managed their business for the past 25 years. Yvonne now dedicates time to working with agencies that reach out to children, pregnant teens, and foster families.

Her "Why"

There are many babies, children, and young people who are not fortunate enough to have been brought up in loving homes. Having seen the many cases that were brought to Yvonne’s home throughout her life, it made her realize what a great lack of care and love there is for so many young people. Being a part of starting the Alliance for Child Protection and Vegas Cares Boutique is a great avenue in educating the young people who are most vulnerable. The boutique offers a safe place for the young people to shop and learn about being safe. It gives dignity to those who don’t have much if any and provides an ear to those who have so much to say. Being a part of this group is a small step to help prevent our children from being exploited. Bringing awareness to the most vulnerable will hopefully empower the young people not to be taken advantage of and to help others who they see might be in danger. If I can make just a small difference in this initiative, then hopefully the world will become more aware of what is going on and work to reduce this awful crime.

Sharelle Mendenhall

Sharelle Mendenhall is the reigning Mrs. United States 2024, dedicated to making a positive difference in her community. A serial entrepreneur, she has established Elite Expo Talent Agency, a nationwide agency, and is the co-founder of Mendanation, a tri-certified organic coffee company. Additionally, she is the founder of TheRoarFest, a groundbreaking Christian worship festival based in Las Vegas with a mission to give back to the community. Sharelle also serves as a TV host for the Christian Television Network, where she interviews local leaders who are influencing change.
 
Married to Adam Mendenhall, Sharelle proudly considers Las Vegas, Nevada, home. She aims to harness her entrepreneurial spirit and creative vision to promote initiatives that protect children and change the course of history.
My "Why"
I am driven by the personal impact of my sister’s five-year disappearance. This experience has fueled my passion for taking proactive steps to protect vulnerable individuals. I am committed to raising awareness, advocating for policy change, and creating an ambassador program, all in the hope of creating a future where no one has to face the horrors of trafficking. My work is motivated by a desire to honor my sister’s memory and to empower this generation to stand up and put an end to child trafficking!

Marie St. John Gray

Marie St. John Gray was a model who created a clothing line that became a global luxury brand. Her clothes were worn by successful businesses women all over the world, including Hillary Rodham Clinton and Madeleine Albright.

In the beginning, Marie was the designer and creator of the clothes and her husband was the sales person and the shipping clerk. They grew the business from the two of them with one order of 200 dresses to 4,800 employees and $365 million in annual sales.

My "Why"

As a young girl, I didn’t have the right clothes. I felt that I didn’t belong. Other girls looked so pretty and stylish. I joined the Alliance for Child Protection board because I know how empowering it is to have the right clothes and to feel good about how you look.

Kim Laub

I’ve lived in Las Vegas for over 50 years. My husband, Joel, and I married and raised our two children here. We love Nevada! I have been privileged to promote our beautiful state as Mrs. Nevada. We have enjoyed contributing to the development of Las Vegas through the years, including the current project which is transforming the old Bonnie Springs Ranch into The Reserve at Bonnie Springs.

Over the years, I have been involved in Nevada Women’s Philanthropy, Ronald McDonald House, Junior League, the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Brain Health Center, and the Governor’s Black Tie Event that benefits many local charities. My husband has been served on the board of Home Builders, The Nature Conservancy of Nevada and others. We are committed to giving back!

My "Why"

I’m involved in Alliance for Child Protection because for me, Las Vegas is not merely a vacation destination, it’s my home, and I am rising up to announce to the world that OUR CHILDREN ARE NOT FOR SALE.

Sonny Vinuya

Sonny Vinuya is a dedicated public servant and community leader with a
passion for strengthening communities through collaboration, advocacy,
and service. He currently serves as the Southern Nevada Outreach
Director for Governor Joe Lombardo’s Office, where he works closely with
local governments, businesses, nonprofit organizations, and community
leaders to address issues impacting Southern Nevada. His work spans
economic development, healthcare, housing, education, and community
engagement, helping connect constituents with vital state resources and
solutions.
Prior to his current role, Sonny served as President and CEO of the Las
Vegas Asian Chamber of Commerce, where he championed small businesses,
fostered strategic partnerships, and led initiatives that strengthened
Nevada’s business community. He also brings experience in commercial
banking and holds a Master of Healthcare Administration, providing a
unique perspective that bridges public service, business, and
healthcare.
As a member of the Alliance for Child Protection Board of Directors,
Sonny is committed to advancing ACP’s mission of preventing child
trafficking through education, awareness, and community collaboration.
His passion for protecting children is deeply personal.
My "Why"
“I support ACP because I have young grandchildren who are facing dangers
that didn’t exist when I was a kid. It’s a different world, and we have
to protect them.”
Sonny believes that every child deserves the opportunity to grow up
safe, supported, and empowered, and he is honored to help advance ACP’s
prevention-first mission throughout Nevada.

Melissa Wilkinson

Melissa Wilkinson is a Financial Advisor with Wells Fargo Advisors in
Las Vegas, where she helps individuals, families, and business owners
develop personalized investment, retirement, and wealth management
strategies designed to help them achieve their long-term financial
goals. Drawing on the extensive resources and research available through
Wells Fargo Advisors, Melissa is committed to delivering thoughtful
guidance and building trusted, lasting relationships with her clients.
Melissa has earned recognition as one of Forbes’ Top Women Wealth
Advisors Best-in-State, reflecting her dedication to exceptional client
service and professional excellence.
As a member of the Alliance for Child Protection Board of Directors,
Melissa is passionate about helping protect children and ensuring
families have the knowledge and resources they need to navigate today’s
increasingly complex world. Her commitment to ACP is deeply personal.
My "Why"
“I support ACP because I am the mom of a teenage girl. I care about her,
her friends, and all of the children who face physical and online
dangers. Every child deserves to grow up safe, informed, and protected.”
Melissa is honored to support ACP’s prevention-first mission through
strategic leadership, community engagement, and responsible stewardship,
helping build a safer future for children throughout Nevada.

Diana Ritchie

Diana Ritchie serves as the Executive Director of the Alliance for Child Protection (ACP), where she leads the organization’s mission to prevent child exploitation through education, collaboration, and community engagement.

A Nevada resident for more than 30 years, Diana has dedicated her life to strengthening families, empowering young people, and helping build safer communities. She also raised her two children in Nevada, giving her both a personal and professional understanding of the importance of protecting children and supporting families.

Her heart for serving vulnerable youth began at the age of 18 while working with children in California’s foster care system. Since moving to Nevada, she has continued that commitment by working with homeless and vulnerable youth, collaborating with community organizations, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, and the Fire Department to create positive community experiences for vulnerable youth. She has also taught within the Clark County School District and developed and taught financial literacy programs that equipped students with practical life skills for the future.

These experiences have given Diana a deep understanding of the challenges many young people face and reinforced her belief that prevention, healthy relationships, and caring adults can change the course of a child’s life.

Diana brings nearly 30 years of leadership experience in operations, organizational development, compliance, strategic planning, and organizational growth. She began her Nevada career in the hospitality industry and advanced into executive leadership, building high-performing teams, strengthening organizations, and leading operational growth. Throughout her career, she has believed that great leadership is ultimately about serving people, building trust, and creating lasting impact.

Today, Diana works alongside schools, law enforcement, child welfare agencies, healthcare organizations, businesses, and nonprofit leaders to expand prevention education across Nevada. Under her leadership, ACP equips youth, parents, educators, and trusted adults with practical tools to recognize vulnerabilities, strengthen healthy relationships, and prevent exploitation before it occurs.

My "Why"

Protecting children has never been confined to my profession. It has been a lifelong calling that has remained at the heart of everything I do.

From working with youth in California’s foster care system as a young adult to raising my own children in Nevada and serving vulnerable children and families throughout our community, I have learned that one trusted adult can change the direction of a child’s life.

That is why I believe prevention matters so deeply. When we equip children, parents, educators, and communities with the knowledge to recognize vulnerability before predators do, we are not simply responding to exploitation. We are helping prevent it.

Leading the Alliance for Child Protection is one of the greatest privileges of my life. Every child we educate, every family we support, and every partnership we build reminds me that protecting children is something we all share responsibility for. Together, we can create communities where every child feels safe, valued, protected, and free to reach their full potential.