Freedom NWPA Making a Difference in the Local Communities
- Editor
- Jul 19
- 2 min read
Freedom NWPA, a local 501(c)3 organization based out of Seneca, PA was formed three years ago with the sole purpose of helping people.
Juilia Allman, founder saw a need in the community and along with her husband, George have been making an impact for both our youth and adults in the community.
Formerly known as ‘Set Free”, Freedom NWPA has been busy equipping and educating the community on the dangers of human trafficking and how it presents itself in our region and communities.
Human trafficking is the third largest international crime industry which accounts for a staggering $150 billion worldwide and $9.9 billion dollars in the U.S.
Human trafficking involves the use of force, fraud, or coercion to obtain some type of labor or commercial sex act. As seen on TV, the network of trafficking has grown exponentially on both a global and local level.
Allman points out, “Trafficking is everywhere and our goal is to create awareness through presentations, education and quarterly self-defense classes”. The self defense classes are free and taught by Westover Protection and the Venango County Sheriff’s office.
In 2024 Freedom NWPA helped to sponsor over 175 students to learn self defense skills and become more aware about human trafficking. Freedom NWPA knows that mitigating the vulnerabilities upstream reduces the chances of a person becoming trafficked.
Awareness saves lives! Julia and company have spoken at the Oil Ciy School District, Abraxas, Pathways, The Franklin Elks etc. With such a need, they were asked to participate statewide led by Donna Oberlander in conjunction with the State Police, the FBI and analysts that handle trafficking in Pennsylvania.
On Friday, July 18th, Julia along with her husband George, took time to stop by The Boys and Girls Club Along The Allegheny in Emlenton.
The kids learned that traffickers look for people who are easy targets because they are emotionally vulnerable, facing economic hardship or instability at home. Traffickers then use different methods to lure their victims thru manipulation, false promises, romantic relationships with social media being the main tool to start a conversation or attract would be victims.
If you would like to learn more about Freedom NWPA and their services you may email Julia at freedom.nwpa@gmail.com or call 814-673-2797.
