March 2026 Newsletter
We've got a lot of exciting updates, events, and opportunities in this March update - so make sure to read through! Ohio Trip | March 6–23 | Ohio Events & Hawaii Raffle Details below.
Cedar Refuge Update From Steve and Brandyn:
💔 Why This Work Matters
Last week we received our first inquiry for an 11-year-old boy who had experienced exploitation.
We had to say no because we do not yet have a facility or program in operation.
Moments like this remind us why Cedar Refuge exists - and why we’re working so urgently to build a place where children can find healing.
What’s Happening Right Now
• We were invited to share our mission at our first Lunch & Learn with a large construction company.
• We recorded an episode of the Sacred & Strange Podcast with Jason Urena, discussing human trafficking and the urgent need for care and healing for children who have been sex trafficked.
• We toured a residential program serving minor female survivors of trafficking as part of our ongoing program development.
• We are now meeting regularly with six volunteer, prayer, and advisory teams to help build and strengthen the organization.
• Bike Against Traffic donated $20,000 - Thank you Team BAT!
• We have an upcoming meeting with one of the largest Child Advocacy Centers in Northern California.
What’s Next - Ohio and Beyond!
• Friday, March 20th: Cedar Refuge Connect Night Ohio
• Saturday, March 21st: Cornerstone Dunkard Brethren Church gathering
• Exploring a potential property for the future home of Cedar Refuge
• The Gipe family stepping into this work full-time.
•Hawaii Raffle to help raise funds for Cedar Refuge - Only 150 tickets at $100 each. Great odds for a great cause! (March - details below)
If anything above stirred your heart - whether you want to learn more about joining one of our teams, know someone who may be interested in helping fund the property, or would like to be added to our prayer list - we would love to connect with you.
Your support helps move us closer to the day we can say “yes” when the next call comes.
Thank you for being part of this mission.
Steven and Brandyn Gipe
Founders & Executive Directors