SADDLE BROOK, N.J. — Greater Bergen REALTORS® (GBR) hosted, Human Trafficking 101: Learn. Recognize. Act. learning session on June 2, 2026, bringing together REALTORS®, community leaders, and advocates for an educational discussion on human trafficking awareness and prevention.
The event was organized by GBR's Community Outreach Committee, Global Business Council, and Health, Wellness & Safety Council. Attendees heard from Gina Cavallo, Founder and Executive Director of We RISE USA, and Patti Pfeifer of the NJ Coalition Against Human Trafficking, who shared information on the topic.
Drawing from her own lived experience, Cavallo emphasized the importance of education and awareness.
“As someone who has lived through exploitation, I know firsthand how important it is for communities to understand the realities of human trafficking,” said Cavallo. “Awareness can change outcomes. When professionals are trained to recognize indicators and respond with compassion and care, they become part of a network that can help prevent harm and support those in need. I was honored to be part of this important conversation with New Jersey’s real estate community.”
The program focused on increasing awareness of human trafficking and helping attendees better understand how to recognize warning signs, respond appropriately, and connect individuals with available resources.
“During National Association of REALTORS®(NAR) REALTORS® Are Good Neighbors Volunteer Days, so many came to hear this informative program,” said Mia Forsberg-Villon, Chair of the Greater Bergen REALTORS® Community Outreach Committee. “It reminded us that our service goes beyond housing—it means protecting and strengthening our communities.
Human trafficking is not just a distant global issue; it thrives in silence right in our own neighborhoods. However, awareness creates action. By learning the signs and staying vigilant while out in the field, we can all play a vital role in keeping our families, clients, and vulnerable neighbors safe.”
The program also reflected the mission of GBR's Health, Wellness & Safety Council to bring attention to issues that impact both REALTORS® and the public.
“As Chairperson of Health, Wellness & Safety, there is no time like the present to bring awareness to safety issues that are affecting our members' lives and the clients we serve,” said Kathleen Houston, Chair of the Health, Wellness & Safety Council.
Lana Drizaj, Chair of the Global Business Council, thanked attendees for participating in the discussion and helping advance awareness around the issue.
“I believe that when we know better, we do better,” said Drizaj. “Thank you to everyone who joined us for this important conversation. By creating spaces for education, awareness, and open dialogue, we take another step toward building a stronger, safer, and more informed community.”
Greater Bergen REALTORS® is proud to present thought provoking and actionable initiatives to our REALTOR® members who are stewards of their communities and thank Cavallo, Pfeifer, We RISE USA, the NJ Coalition Against Human Trafficking, event sponsor NJ Reporters and Interpreters, LLC, for helping make the program a success.
Through programs like Human Trafficking 101, Greater Bergen REALTORS® continue its commitment to education, community engagement, and supporting initiatives that make a positive impact throughout Northern New Jersey and neighboring communities.
To learn more about We RISE USA and NJ Coalition Against Human Trafficking and access their resources, click HERE
For more information, please contact:
Maria Kelly
PR and Social Media Coordinator
[email protected]
201-244-7000 Ext. 410
To view the event’s photo album, click HERE
To sign up for a GBR council, click HERE