20th Year of Walk Recognized
Soroptimist International of Vista and North County Inland held their 20th Annual Human Trafficking Awareness Walk on January 10, 2026 at the United Methodist Church of Vista. About 250 people attended.
Vista Mayor John Franklin was the keynote speaker. Representatives from the offices of State Senator Catherine Blakespeare, State Assemblywoman Laurie Davies, the County of San Diego and the City of Vista presented several Proclamations and Certificates recognizing the Vista Soroptimists’ twenty years of organizing the awareness event. Singled out for recognition were Soroptimist Kaye Van Nevel who spearheaded the event for two decades. Soroptimists Allison Temples and Nelly Jarrous have taken over the job of co-chairing the annual event. They thanked the community, Vista Mayor and Council Members, Vista Sheriff and Fire Chief, and local media for showing up to spread the word. Nelly Jarrous thanked the United Methodist Church for providing the venue.
About 250 attended this year. Attendees included community leaders, students, Soroptimist members, and supporters. Non-profits with information tables set up included North County Lifeline, Operation Hope, One Safe Place, Alabaster Jar Project, Petals of Hope, and SDOP Coalition of Justice. The walk down Melrose Avenue and back was led by Mayor Franklin. Participants carried banners and signs drawing the attention of motorists during the mile and half walk. In addition, Vista Fire Chief Gerard Washington supplied fire trucks to escort walkers’ through the busy traffic.
