March 4, 2026
Awaken
Awaken is a faith-based non-profit organization on a mission to eradicate commercial sexual exploitation. With a focus on providing housing, education, and holistic restoration services, we stand shoulder-to-shoulder with survivors, giving them the tools they need to reclaim their lives and build brighter futures.
Awaken acts to transform our community with the ultimate goal of eradicating commercial sexual exploitation. We aim for victims of commercial sexual exploitation to be restored to their fullest potential. We aspire to be an inspirational model for other communities.
ON A MISSION TO RID THE COMMUNITY OF SEX TRAFFICKING
MELISSA HOLLAND | Co-Founder & CEO
Melissa Holland, the co-founder of Awaken, a Reno-based ministry that works with victims of sex trafficking, shares her personal testimony and the origins of the organization.
Awaken’s mission is to transform the city of Reno into a safe place where victimization no longer occurs, while providing direct services and healing for minors and adults affected by sex trafficking.
Holland describes her journey from a troubled youth to becoming a missionary in China, which led her to recognize the issue of sex trafficking in her own community. She partnered with Jen Campbell to start Awaken, which has grown to offer prevention, restoration, and city transformation programs.
The organization has faced challenges but has seen God’s hand at work in miraculous ways, including securing a building and gaining community support to combat the legalized sex trade in Nevada.
UNITING COMMUNITIES TO END SEX TRAFFICKING
JEN CAMPBELL | Co-Founder & Chief Mission Officer
Jen Campbell and Melissa Holland co-founded the ministry Awaken, which focuses on addressing prostitution and sex trafficking in the Reno, Nevada community. Awaken has been operating for almost 15 years and has three main pillars: prevention, restoration, and city transformation.
Jen explains the three pillars, while also sharing fascinating stories about the early days of launching the ministry. Hers is a story of courage, passion, and reliance on God that has enabled Awaken to thrive and make an impact in our community in a profound way.
Learn More
Want to learn more about Awaken or in need of their services? Contact them today.
Awaken
Phone: 775-393-9183
Email: infonv@awakenjustice.org