Young people in Corning are hitting the ice this January—not just for fun, but to fight human trafficking.
The “Skate for Freedom” youth skate-a-thon will take over the Nasser Civic Center ice rink on Saturday, January 31, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. The event, organized by the Potter’s Hands Foundation, blends fundraising with education during National Human Trafficking Awareness Month.
Local youth will raise money through sponsorships or flat donations for every lap they skate. The funds support women recovering from sex trafficking and sexual exploitation through the foundation’s residential program.
“This event is designed to both raise awareness about the issue of sex trafficking and support our mission through youth-led fundraising efforts,” said Deborah Kuehner, executive director and founder. “It engages young people in a positive, tangible way—helping them understand the realities of trafficking while encouraging leadership, compassion, and community involvement.”
Registration is free but required, and must be completed online. Details, including registration and pledge forms, are available at www.thepottershandsfoundation.org/skate-a-thon.
The Potter’s Hands Foundation is the only long-term residential recovery program for female trafficking survivors in the Finger Lakes, Western New York, and Southern Tier. The organization provides shelter, food, education, counseling, mental health support, and life skills coaching—all at no cost to survivors and without any government funding.
For media inquiries or to schedule an interview with Deborah Kuehner, contact Stephanie Specchio at 607-331-4276.
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