WE ARE AURORA
Dawn of Freedom
MISSION
Aurora works towards freedom from human trafficking through advocating for survivors, allying with other organizations, and raising awareness in communities to inspire action.
VISION
We envision the dawn of a new day where everyone is free from all forms of exploitation.
VALUES
Light - We are committed to shining our light to impact and influence our community.
Love - We are committed to loving and serving others.
Integrity - We are committed to honesty and integrity in all we do.
Honor - We are committed to treating all people with dignity and respect.
Stewardship - We are committed to steward our time, resources, and story.
OUR FOUNDERS
REBECCA MCGILL
Executive Director
Rebecca is passionate about justice work and empowering survivors. Rebecca is a therapist and Clinical Coordinator at Haven of Hope, and STRTP in Aptos, CA. Rebecca earned her Master of Social Work (MSW) at CSUSB.She is certified as a Human Trafficking Case Worker in California and has been involved in the anti-trafficking community for 16 years. She served for 3 years in Cambodia with Agape International Missions. She also worked as a Social Worker for Santa Cruz County and as a foster parent.
CONNOR MCGILL
Board Chairman & Advocacy Advisor
Connor is a Professional Engineer at The Fire Consultants. Connor has a passion for safety through prevention work. Prior to starting Aurora Freedom, he served as the Child Protection Officer at Agape International Missions in Cambodia. He is also educated and experienced in trauma informed person centered care.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
JOHN BRANDERHORST
Board Member & Allyship Advisor
JB is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing at Cornerstone Psychology, in Roseville, CA. JB's experience includes running a Retreat Center with his wife, Kendra, teaching as a Psychology Professor at William Jessup University, and serving on the boards of other anti-trafficking organizations. JB has a heart for nonprofit and anti-trafficking work. He loves seeing people partner together to accomplish good work.
Danielle Dieterich
Board Member & Awareness Advisor
Danielle is a Digital Strategist at Burness. She utilizes years of experience crafting mission-driven social media, multimedia, and marketing to promote ideas that inspire and drive social change worldwide. Previously, Danielle led digital strategy and online programming at the Student Press Law Center, as well as served as a journalist in several local newsrooms.
GINA MASTERJOHN-NORMAN
Board Member & ADEI Advisor
Gina is a Spiritual Director, Clergywoman, and Lay Counselor. She is passionate about empowering people to live in their own authenticity by helping equip them with tools for living their best life.
MELISSA BAUCUM
Board Secretary & Advancement Advisor
Melissa Baucum is a professor at the University of Oklahoma and earned her PhD in marketing at the University of Tennessee. Previously, Melissa worked in marketing at Hulu Inc. under The Walt Disney Company, led research for Fortune 500 technology firms while at a market research agency in Los Angeles, and gained experience in non-profit digital marketing at World Vision.
LESLIE MCGILL
Board Treasurer & Administration Advisory
Leslie is the Executive Director of the California Police Chiefs Association.
She has over 40 years of experience in nonprofit management and development. She is highly skilled in policy, communication, networking, and community outreach. She is passionate about good leadership and staff care.