DES MOINES — One thousand Iowa organizations and businesses have joined Iowa’s fight against human trafficking, Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate has announced. Iowa Businesses Against Trafficking (IBAT) has reached a significant milestone with 1,000 members joining the cause. Secretary Pate celebrated this achievement alongside the launch of the inaugural Iowa Businesses Against Trafficking (IBAT) Advisory Group at the Iowa State Capitol.
A coalition of business and community leaders, nonprofits, and subject matter experts from across the state dedicated to raising awareness and strengthening efforts to prevent human trafficking convened at the Iowa State Capitol for a press conference to celebrate the group's official launch and the new milestone.
The IBAT Advisory Group will support the Iowa Secretary of State's anti-trafficking efforts and overarching IBAT program, which encourages members to learn something and do something about human trafficking each year. Through collaboration to develop and support policies, training, and resources to address trafficking, the group aims to expand IBAT's statewide membership network and engage Iowa businesses meaningfully in prevention efforts.
"Today we are celebrating two things: the launch of our inaugural Advisory Group and a milestone four years in the making:1,000 IBAT members across 96 Iowa counties, collectively reaching almost 350,000 Iowa employees," said Secretary Pate. "The Advisory Group represents the next phase of that work, bringing together community leaders to develop real resources, help raise awareness, and ensure that Iowa's business community is part of the fight."
Mark Doll, Second Generation Owner/Partner of Doll Distributing, shared remarks at the press conference highlighting the business community's commitment to the initiative. Doll Distributing has been a longtime IBAT member, and Third Generation Owner/Partner Lauren Doll-Sheeder sits on the Advisory Group.
"At Doll Distributing, we often talk about building brands and building relationships, said Doll. “But at the end of the day, it's really about building communities, and supporting the fight against human trafficking is one way we can help create a safer Iowa for everyone."
Dorothy's House Executive Director Aimee McDonald emphasized the role businesses play in the broader effort to combat trafficking and support anti-trafficking organizations and nonprofits.
"Businesses are uniquely positioned to help prevent trafficking, recognize warning signs, educate employees, and create opportunities for survivors to rebuild their lives," said McDonald. "Human trafficking is not an issue that any one organization can solve alone. It requires all of us – business leaders, nonprofits, community members, and government partners – to work together. Together, we can create safer communities, support survivors on their healing journeys, and be part of the solution."
The Advisory Group members will serve one-year terms, and will assist with IBAT recruitment and outreach, host public awareness events and campaigns, and contribute to best practice resources for fellow members. Each Advisory Group member will also identify an outstanding IBAT champion within their industry or community to be recognized at a follow-up ceremony in December 2026.
Members of the Inaugural IBAT Advisory Group Include:
- Aimee McDonald – Executive Director, Dorothy's House
- Heather Van Hemert-Glenn – Vice President & Founder, The Lighthouse Foundation
- Shannon Knudsen – Executive Director, Safe Center Iowa
- Jill Altringer – 2nd District Supervisor, Polk County Board of Supervisors
- Dr. Joe Moravec – Professor, Mercy College; President, Community Foundation for Inspired Giving; Co-Founder, Stop Trafficking Now
- Mike Gatham – CEO, Community Bankers of Iowa
- Mike Ferjak – Public Safety and Law Enforcement Professional, Safe Center Iowa
- Lauren Doll-Sheeder – Owner/Partner, Doll Distributing
Iowa Businesses Against Trafficking (IBAT) is a program administered by the Iowa Secretary of State's Office. Iowa businesses can learn more and join IBAT at IBAT.IOWA.GOV. - A photo of the Advisory Group at the press conference is available for your use.
- Video/b-roll from the press conference is available for your use.