2024 Executive Summary
In September 2023, Bianca’s Haven received approval from the State of Michigan as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, dedicated to the fight against human trafficking through a triad of education, advocacy, and empowerment. In December 2024, the state of Nevada officially granted approval for Bianca’s Haven to operate within its borders. This significant milestone marks an exciting expansion of our mission to combat human trafficking and support survivors. With this approval, we are poised to extend our services and resources to those in need in Nevada, fostering a safe environment for individuals affected by exploitation. This noble initiative is spearheaded by a distinguished board of directors, each member bringing a wealth of experience and expertise in addressing the multifaceted needs of human trafficking victims. The board comprises notable figures such as Dr. Vernal T. Tiller (CEO and Founder), Dr. Danielle J. Bastien (Vice President), Dr. Santosh Mudiraj (Vice President through September 2024), Wendy M. Tiller, RN, BSN (Secretary), and Bianca J. Reaves, PhD (c) (Treasurer), whose collective knowledge has significantly propelled the impactful trajectory of Bianca’s Haven.
Monthly board meetings (except for December) facilitate strategic planning and oversight, ensuring that the organization remains aligned with its mission. The funds generated through our fundraising endeavors are judiciously allocated to community organizations that play a crucial role in assisting victims on their journey to becoming empowered survivors. Through these collaborative efforts, Bianca’s Haven is making strides in transforming lives and fostering resilience within the community.
Bianca’s Haven was prominently featured in an article in the Troy Times, highlighting our mission and initiatives. On August 10, 2024, we successfully held our inaugural fundraiser, generously sponsored by Henry Ford Health. The event was graced by an exemplary keynote address from Sheriff Michael Bouchard of Oakland County, complemented by insightful commentary from Heidi Warrington, MSN, RN, CNRN. The collaborative efforts and support from numerous individuals and organizations across Oakland County and the state of Michigan, who contributed raffle items, played a pivotal role in the event’s success and in advancing the vital cause of combating human trafficking.
We are currently in the planning stages for our 2025 fundraiser, which promises to be an exciting event. This year’s theme is an Adult Prom with a Twist, where attendees will wear prom attire paired with their favorite tennis shoes for a fun and unique experience. The fundraiser will be held at the Embassy Suites (Troy) on Saturday, August 9, 2025, from 6PM-10PM. We are honored to have Sheriff Michael Bouchard of Oakland County as our keynote speaker, along with Ms. Cynthia A. Brown, Leader of the Oakland County Human Trafficking Unit, who will also share her insights.
Empower
We successfully held our inaugural fundraiser, attracting an impressive 150 attendees who came together to support our mission. In recognition of the community’s generosity and commitment, the board of Bianca’s Haven approved donations to The Joseph Project, Sanctum House, and Common Ground. These contributions will play a crucial role in aiding organizations dedicated to restoring the lives of human trafficking survivors, furthering our collective efforts to combat this pressing issue.
Advocate
We successfully submitted the 1023-EZ Form to the IRS and received confirmation of our 501(c)(3) status, solidifying our commitment to combating human trafficking as a recognized non-profit organization. In addition, we launched the Bianca’s Haven website on LinkedIn, which has garnered over 10,000 views since its inception. The site continues to attract significant attention, receiving more than 1,000 views each month. This online presence not only enhances our visibility but also serves as a vital platform for raising awareness and engaging the community in our mission.
Educate
Bianca’s Haven is proudly listed on the IRS Publication 78 (Pub78), a publicly accessible registry maintained by the United States Internal Revenue Service (IRS) that includes organizations granted tax-exempt status under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. In addition to this recognition, an article announcing the establishment of Bianca’s Haven was featured in both the Troy Times and the Oakland University Alumni Newsletter. The Troy Times further highlighted the outcomes of our inaugural fundraiser in their September newsletter, showcasing the community’s support for our mission. We have also joined the Troy Chamber of Commerce, which has significantly bolstered our efforts in raising awareness, promoting education, and providing marketing and branding support, as well as advocacy for our cause. Moreover, Bianca’s Haven actively participated as a vendor at the Advanced Practice Practitioner Annual Symposium, sponsored by Henry Ford Health, as well as at the Diversity Expo organized by the Troy Chamber of Commerce. These engagements have allowed us to connect with a broader audience and further our mission to combat human trafficking.