A few words
About Us
Our Story
A Voice in the Wilderness
A Voice in the Wilderness Empowerment Center, a 501(C)3 organization, has transformed from grassroots street outreach to a respected advocate in the halls of Congress. We remain steadfast in our commitment to empowering marginalized communities, tackling the intertwined issues of hunger, abuse, homelessness, human trafficking, substance abuse, child exploitation, HIV, and other STDs.
Our tireless efforts have yielded a proven track record of delivering vital services, shaping policy, and inspiring resilience. Notably, our work was featured in the groundbreaking documentary TRAPPED: Lessons from the Trenches, which shed light on the dark enterprise of human trafficking and exposed the interconnected crises of homelessness, addiction, HIV, and human trafficking.
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Founder and Visionary
Ramona D. Miller
Ramona D. Miller is a trailblazing leader in the anti-human trafficking movement. As founder of A Voice in the Wilderness Empowerment Center (AVWEC) and the prestigious Gillen-Massey Award, she has created lasting impact, recognizing and empowering individuals fighting against human trafficking.
The Gillen-Massey Award honors exceptional contributions to the fight against human trafficking. Since its inception, the award has recognized and celebrated the tireless efforts of advocates, survivors, and organizations making a difference. The award is presented in partnership with the St. Thomas University Human Trafficking Academy and the John J. Brunetti Human Trafficking Academy.
Through her work with AVWEC and in partnership with the St. Thomas University Human Trafficking Academy, Ms. Miller has provided critical training to various stakeholders, including judges, attorneys, advocates, community leaders, churches, and schools. Her dedication to educating and empowering others has been instrumental in strengthening the anti-human trafficking movement.
Why Choose Us
Comprehensive Support Services
Providing emergency shelter, life-saving support, and tailored solutions for vulnerable populations, including veterans, who have fallen through the cracks. We specialize in recovering and empowering individuals and families in crisis through strategic community partnerships
Pioneering Overdose Prevention in Southwest Florida
As the region’s first NGO to distribute free Naloxone, we continue to lead the fight against overdoses, changing and saving lives daily.
Empowering Vulnerable Populations
Serving individuals, veterans, children, and families affected by addiction, exploitation, and homelessness, guiding them toward stability and hope.
Guided by Mission, Not Profit
As a 501(c)(3) non-profit, we’re dedicated to educating, empowering, and eradicating societal epidemics through selfless service.
Restoring Hope, Rebuilding Lives
Passionately committed to restoring dignity, safety, and opportunity for those trapped in adversity.
Our work focuses on:
Advancing Human Rights
romoting dignity and justice for all individuals.
Recovery, Rehabilitation and Awareness
Providing support and resources for those affected by societal epidemics.
Building Safer Communities
Creating spaces for healing, growth, and connection.
Eradicating and Ending Societal Epidemics
ddressing the root causes of systemic issues.
Empowering Communities and Municipalities:
quipping local leaders with the knowledge and skills to drive positive change and create thriving communities.
Narcan Distribution and Training
As the first community-based Organization in South and Southwest Florida offering free Narcan and overdose prevention trianing, we are saving lives daily.
Our Impact extends to
Local
Empowering community leaders and organizations to drive positive change.
State
Collaborating with state officials and agencies to advance policy initiatives.
Federal
Advocating for federal policies and legislation that promote human rights and social justice.