THE EMBRACING PROJECT
April 18, 2026
Las Vegas ranks among the nation’s most vulnerable cities for human trafficking, with young people disproportionately affected by the crisis. In Clark County, nearly one in four survivors is a minor and many have experienced abuse, instability, and unmet mental health needs prior to their exploitation – factors advocates say contribute to a cycle of trauma that is difficult to escape without comprehensive support.
On April 18el, 2026, volunteers gathered in Las Vegas to renovate and update facilities for The Embracing Project (TEP), a local nonprofit dedicated to promoting peace and healing for youth survivors of violence, sexual exploitation, and sex trafficking. Since 2007, the organization provides services aimed at helping these vulnerable young people as they heal, grow, and reclaim their lives.
The Embracing Project is Las Vegas’s first—and only—drop-in center for hundreds of youth each year. The center empowers survivors, works to prevent future exploitation, and the center provides many layers of support to survivors. These services provided include trauma-focused therapy for individuals and families, educations programs, life-skills classes, and access to basic necessities such as hygiene supplies and food.
Organizers said the facility required significant updates to provide safe and healthy resources for the survivors. A group of organizations came together to make this happen. Volunteers from the Las Vegas East Stake of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints partnered with JustServe, Home Depot and local contractors to complete the renovations, contributing labor, materials, and technical expertise.
Renovations to the facility included removing old carpet and replacing it with new vinyl flooring, installing new lighting in several rooms, and repainting interior spaces. The kitchen was upgraded with a new oven, vent hood, and two new microwaves. Bathroom fixtures were also replaced, and exterior work addressed overgrown landscaping and structural repairs, including fixing a damaged gate. Even new furniture was provided by Home Depot to help create a more welcoming environment.
This counseling center is incredible,” said Lorry Mancha, operations experience manager with Home Depot. “The way that they help these teenagers is meaningful, and we want to help create a space where they feel comfortable and at home.”
Each year The Embracing Project serves approximately 300 young people on their path toward recovery and stability. Program Director Makaya Swain said the renovations reflect a broader commitment to providing a safe and dignified space for those in recovery. “For many of the youth we serve, this is their safe place,” Swain said. “We’ve always tried to make it warm and welcoming, but they deserve more-they deserve a space that helps they deserve a place that is beautiful, the paint is fresh, and furniture that matches. They deserve a space that reflects their value. We are really grateful to Home Depot, JustServe, the Church, and all the volunteers that are here.”
The Las Vegas East Stake JustServe and Communications team was invited to tour The Embracing Project by Nick Whitney, Director of nonprofit People for Humanity. The team is grateful for Nick’s introduction and following the visit, team members said they quickly recognized the project’s significance and expressed a strong commitment to support its efforts in any way possible. Planning for the renovation began in November 2025 and required months of coordination to secure donations, volunteers, and skilled labor. Organizers say the project highlights the role community partnerships can play in addressing social issues. “It is great to have an opportunity to work with this organization,” said Rod Hicken, JustServe Specialist. “We felt the hand of the Lord in the project. We know that as we strive to emulate the Savior, and follow his guidance, sometimes he parts the water, sometimes angels appear, and other times he just sends people like us to do the work for Him. Working on this project, I’ve seen the waters have been opened several times as we needed additional volunteers and donations. “
Las Vegas East Stake President, Ryan Bowen, shared why he felt prompted to support this effort, “We feel that these kids deserve to have a place of respect, dignity, and that through our service, and through the love of our Savior Jesus Christ, we can provide them with an opportunity to feel that they are worth so much to our Savior. This is just a wonderful opportunity to serve the Lord, serve our community, and bring some love to the people in our area.”
