"I think that's one of the myths about America or about people that I probably most disbelieve - is that you pull yourself up by your own bootstraps...I believe that we deeply need each other."
Maybe it took the Covid health crisis to make us all realize just how much we do deeply need each other. For some women here in Jax, who could be your neighbors shopping in the same aisle or praying near you in the same place of worship, their need is far more profound. Kristin Keen, founder and CEO of Rethreaded, Inc., practically vibrates with the energy of her passion to see women freed from the chains of sex trafficking. This social entrepreneur has had her share of sleepless nights, kept awake wanting to rescue more women than she could reach and worrying how she’d pay back the $50,000 loan she needed to keep her doors open just a few years ago. Yet this self-described visionary possesses more grit than most, and has evolved Rethreaded into a powerful, successful organization whose mission is “to renew hope, reignite dreams and release potential for survivors of human trafficking locally and globally through business.” Her philanthropic business skills were honed in Calcutta, but Jacksonville has been Kristin’s unending source of support, connection - and soon, Rethreaded’s new 36,000 square feet HQ. Listen to Kristin in Episode 16 of Innovate Jax and we promise you’ll be captivated by her transformative vision too.
The Innovate Jax podcast will introduce you to the Jacksonville change-makers who are propelling our city into a new realm of sophistication. Our goal is to connect you to the people who are leaving their mark on our city today, in hopes that they inspire you to leave your mark tomorrow. Subscribe today and you’ll have fresh new episodes delivered to you each month. And feel free to recommend a guest by dropping us a note at innovatejax@forcura.com.
