Reclaim 13 Gala in Lombard Unites Human Trafficking Advocates

Pictured (L-R): Dr. Rangala, Edward Hospital; Jim Glasgow, Will County State’s Attorney; Cassandra Ma, Executive Director Of Reclaim 13; Bob Berlin, DuPage County State’s Attorney; and Carolyn Berlin.

On October 5, 2019 Reclaim13, a 501c3 organization who’s mission is to fight and end human trafficking, hosted its annual gala at the Westin in Lombard. DuPage County State’s Attorney Bob Berlin is a proud supporter of the organization, its goals, and the efforts it has undertaken to support the victims of human trafficking in DuPage County. Bob attended the event with his wife Carolyn.

The organization’s name comes from the fact that 13 is the average age of children introduced into commercial and sexual exploitation. Reclaim13 strives to help exploited children before the potential consequences of abuse can take hold and doom them to a short, unhealthy life.

As part of its efforts, Reclaim13 operates Cherish House, which provides 24/7 placement for children who are the victims of trafficking. Cherish House is a long-term residential treatment facility that provides a loving environment where the children are provided with physical safety and a comforting environment by experienced staff. The children are mentored, taught life skills, and provided with educational opportunities that will help them shape new lives for themselves. It is one of the only facilities of its kind in Illinois.

Bob Berlin has consistently protected the children of DuPage County, who count among the most vulnerable members of the community. This includes a recent finding of guilt against a 40-year-old man for the repeated sexual assault of a minor over the course of two years. The man was sentenced to 75 years in prison in August, 2019.

Pictured (L-R): James Mendrick; DuPage County Sheriff; Eddie Moore, DuPage County Sheriff’s Office, and Bob Berlin, DuPage County State’s Attorney.