Hi! I'm Jonah.
I've been with Spero since it's beginning in 2016. After hearing that there are more human slaves today than any other point in human history, I couldn't ignore the issue any longer. With the backing of a generous donor, I started Spero as a way to highlight and empower international organizations making an impact on human trafficking and give generous donors in the U.S. a list of effective and responsible organizations they can feel confident donating to. Spero is an incredible organization passionate about making true change around the issue of trafficking, and I couldn't be more thankful to be a part of this organization.
Jonah Traaseth
Executive Director
Hi, I’m Sara. I am passionate about family preservation and child protection – issues at the heart of preventing human trafficking. I’m an experienced international development professional. I find it a great privilege to use my grant writing, research, and policy experiences to serve on the board of Spero. Exploitation of the vulnerable is at the heart of all inequality in this world. I envision a world where the vulnerable are lifted up and revered.
Sara Thompson
President of the Board
Hi, my name is Debbie Robbins. I am originally from Canada but moved to Minnesota permanently after attending Bethel University. I am a CPA and have been working in public accounting for over 25 years specializing in the area of tax. Human trafficking is horrifying. I really don’t know how else to describe it. I can’t imagine any child having to live in this situation, but it is happening globally to millions of children. Yes – millions. I really believe in Spero’s model – informing us, connecting those of us who can help, to those who are working directly with these children and giving them love and hope.
Debbie Robbins
Treasurer
Hi, my name is Peter Tewalt. I am serving on the Spero Board of Directors as Treasurer. I currently work as a Senior Internal Auditor for Deluxe in Minneapolis, MN. I am excited to bring my professional experience to aid the work that Spero is doing to fight human trafficking and identify partners that are tackling the issue of human trafficking in a way that is financially transparent and responsible. At Spero, we are working in a way that is innovative and effective long term. I'm thankful to be a part of this team!