Allied Universal CEO raises record $3.2 million for human trafficking victims

IRVINE, Calif.—Allied Universal Global Chairman and CEO Steve Jones and his wife, Stacy Jones, have raised a record-setting more than $3.2 million for Vera’s Sanctuary, a licensed residential drug treatment facility that serves young women recovering from human trafficking.

The funds were generated through the couple’s annual Hot Summer Nights fundraiser, held in August and attended this year by more than 700 guests and supported by nearly 100 sponsors.

According to Allied Universal, every dollar raised through the event goes directly to Vera’s Sanctuary.

“Across the U.S., nearly 30,000 residential care facilities serve people facing addiction, homelessness or domestic violence, yet victims of human trafficking have only one licensed residential drug treatment shelter and it is just miles from our global headquarters in Orange County,” Jones said. “Stacy and I believe this urgent issue deserves far greater attention. That is why we underwrite and host the Hot Summer Nights fundraiser each year to raise awareness and ensure that every dollar raised goes directly to supporting the life-changing work of Vera’s Sanctuary.”

Over the past decade, the fundraiser’s donors, sponsors and attendees have collectively contributed more than $14.7 million to support the organization’s mission.

Founded in 2018, Vera’s Sanctuary provides comprehensive rehabilitation and recovery services for trafficking survivors between the ages of 15 and 26. The program offers licensed drug treatment services alongside food, shelter, clothing, medical care, psychiatric support, prenatal services and transportation. 

Residents also receive approximately 30 hours of therapeutic services each week and have access to educational opportunities, vocational training, internships, job placement assistance and automobile gift programs. Unlike many residential treatment programs, Vera’s Sanctuary places no maximum limit on length of stay, allowing residents to progress through recovery at their own pace.

Since opening its doors eight years ago, the organization has provided rehabilitation services to more than 600 women, helping survivors rebuild their lives and transition toward long-term independence. 

Related: Allied Universal named to TIME's list of best private companies