Rocket Fuel and ACE'S

January is Human Trafficking Prevention Month, and as a homeless services provider, I understand the true intersectionality of experiencing homelessness and being trafficked. This year, Governor Mike Dunleavy announced that January is now known as Alaska Human Trafficking Prevention Month, showing the state’s commitment to expanding resources for survivors and taking action to tackle this crisis head on. While this is great step, there is a lot to do to make Alaska, and our country, a leader in fighting human trafficking.  

Did you know that there are 25 categories of human trafficking, and these range from construction to sex trafficking? Or that, despite Anchorage having a population of 240,000, our trafficking rates are higher than New Orleans and New York City. A 2017 study by Loyola University found that 30% of homeless youth in Anchorage are victims and/or survivors of trafficking? Or that, in any given month, there are 60,000 online advertisements for trafficked Alaskans in Anchorage alone. The need for action is urgent, and it is crucial that we continue to raise awareness and support efforts to combat this issue. 

New Leadership 

In the midst of this crucial work, I’m excited to share that two of my team members have been promoted and are now part of Henning's Senior Leadership team! 

I am thrilled to announce Sarah Hall-Wright as our new Director of Operations. Sarah has been with us since the beginning, playing a pivotal role in launching our first programs, including distributing $900,000 in rental assistance to over 100 Alaskans and managing 80 transitional living rooms at the Aviator Hotel. 

What sets Sarah apart is her unique perspective—over 5 years of personal sobriety and more than 3 years of experience in case management and peer support. Her deep understanding of the recovery process, combined with her trauma-informed leadership, allows her to approach her work with compassion, empathy, and respect for everyone she serves. We are excited to continue growing with Sarah in this new role and see the continued impact she will have on our operations and community. 

Ana Vanilau is stepping into the role of Director of Programs, where she will lead the development and management of our programs across all shelter locations, transitional living facilities, and low-income housing initiatives. Ana has spent over four years driving innovative shelter operations and meeting the needs of those we serve. She has been instrumental in leading the Next Step program and overseeing operations at Henning House, a non-congregate shelter and transitional living facility. Ana also served as Program Manager at the Alex Hotel for the past two years, demonstrating her leadership, collaboration, and dedication to addressing homelessness in Anchorage. We are incredibly grateful for her ongoing commitment to improving the homeless response system, and we look forward to the continued growth of our programs under her leadership. 

Walking Towards a Brighter Future 

At Henning, we believe in the power of collaboration, leadership, and commitment to make lasting change. As we tackle the intersection of homelessness and human trafficking, we’re proud to have these two incredible leaders on our team to guide us in our mission. 

We look forward to a brighter, more equitable future for all those we serve, and we’re excited to continue this journey with all of you. 

Shawn Hays 

Founder and Executive Director 

Henning Inc.