Project 1591 Turns 3! 957 Victims Identified — Thanks to Individuals just like You!
Three years ago, we launched a bold experiment: could skilled volunteers from across the country and around the world come together to help identify victims of sex trafficking online?
Today, we celebrate the third anniversary of Project 1591, and the answer is a resounding yes.
Since its launch in July 2022, Project 1591’s dedicated volunteer force has helped identify 957 victims of sex trafficking. Increasing Guardian Group’s impact by 249% since its launch.
This impact has been made possible by ordinary people doing extraordinary work.
A Global Community
What began as a small group of dedicated volunteers has grown into a powerful global network. Project 1591 now includes volunteers across 37 U.S. states and 14 countries, all donating their time, expertise, and hearts to a single mission: identifying victims of trafficking before it’s too late.
Each volunteer goes through a vetting and certification process before gaining access to the platform. Once certified, they utilize their Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT) skills to detect signs of trafficking in online spaces, reviewing publicly available information, and submitting what they find through the platform. Once their findings are corroborated, they are then disseminated to our law enforcement partners for action. Ultimately, helping victims get the help they need faster.
Together, this community is proving that when people choose to act, real change follows.
Real Impact, Real Lives
Behind each number is a name. A life. A child, teenager, or adult who was being exploited and who now has a chance at freedom and healing because someone chose to give their time to Project 1591.
We don’t just celebrate a number today. We celebrate the lives behind that number and the volunteers who refused to look away.
The Work Is Not Done
Traffickers are adapting, and the need is growing. As we look ahead to year four of Project 1591, we know this fight is far from over. But we also know what works: commitment, community, and action.
If you’re ready to be part of something bigger — something life-changing — join us.
Become a Project 1591 Volunteer
Don’t have the time to volunteer? You can still make an impact.
Donate to expand this work
Every dollar helps us grow the volunteer force, support law enforcement, and identify more victims.
Happy 3rd Anniversary, Project 1591.
Here’s to the next chapter and to a future where every victim is identified and offered a path to freedom, and every trafficker is behind bars.