Human Trafficking Program Planned By D202 Plainfield Parent Community

PLAINFIELD, IL — Plainfield parents are invited to learn about human trafficking and how victims are targeted through social media through a program planned Nov. 20 by the Plainfield Parent Community Network.

"DMs, Likes and Lies: How Traffickers Use Social Media," designed for middle and high school students and parents, will be presented at 7 p.m. in the Plainfield East High School auditorium, 12001 Naperville Road.

Plainfield Community Consolidated School District 202 social workers, special education administrators and counselors formed the PPCN in fall 2016 to support parents.

Guest speaker Chris Baker, a tattoo artist and owner of the Oswego parlor Ink 180, will lead the event. The program will discuss the most common apps predators use and how they lure kids through them; practical tools for using social media; warning signs that a child may be in danger; tips for having open and honest conversations; and where to find local help and support.

Free pizza will be available to participants. Guests are encouraged to RSVP to help organizers plan ahead. Every student who attends will receive a raffle ticket for a chance to win a new Apple Watch. Childcare will be available for preschool through fifth-grade students.

For certified educators attending the program, professional development credits — continuing education units and continuing professional development units — will be available.

The presentation will be recorded and shared on the PPCN website for those who can't attend.