What is World Cup ACT Weekend?

World Cup ACT (Action Collaborative Against Trafficking) is a two-day, survivor-informed call to action that brings together communities, organizations, and individuals to raise awareness and take meaningful steps to prevent human trafficking.

Led by survivor leaders from across the country, World Cup ACT focuses on education, outreach, and community engagement ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. With New Jersey hosting eight matches, including the final, and nearby Philadelphia hosting six matches, this initiative helps communities prepare for the increased risks associated with large-scale events.

World Cup ACT is built on collaboration, recognizing that no single organization can address human trafficking alone. It brings people together to share resources, strengthen partnerships, and take action.

What can I expect at World Cup ACT?

World Cup ACT is designed to be both educational and action-oriented. Participants can expect:

  • Survivor-informed training and discussions
  • Opportunities to connect with community members, advocates, and partners
  • Hands-on outreach activities
  • A collaborative, welcoming environment focused on learning and impact

It is not just about awareness, it is about giving you the tools and opportunity to take action in your own community.

Do I need experience or training to participate?

No prior experience is required. The event includes HT101 training, which will provide the foundational knowledge needed to participate in outreach activities.

What will I be doing during the event?

You can choose your level of involvement. Activities include:

  • Attending training sessions
  • Visiting awareness tables and engaging with organizations
  • Participating in outreach to local hotels
  • Supporting community awareness efforts

Everything is structured so you feel prepared and supported.

Who should attend?

World Cup ACT is open to anyone who wants to learn more and make a difference, including:

  • Community members
  • Students (ages 13 and up)
  • Organizations and nonprofits
  • Faith-based groups
  • Professionals across all sectors

Human trafficking can affect anyone, and it takes a community to address it.

Is there a cost to attend?

Yes, registration helps cover event costs, including training, materials, lunch, and your World Cup ACT t-shirt.

  • Adults: $40
  • Students (13+): $20

Group rates are available for 10 or more:

  • Adults: $30
  • Students: $12.50
Why is this event important?

Large events like the World Cup can increase the risk of human trafficking. World Cup ACT helps communities prepare by raising awareness, educating the public, and taking proactive steps to prevent exploitation.

Most importantly, it reinforces that trafficking can happen to anyone, anywhere, and that everyone has a role to play in prevention.

What happens at the May 30, 2026 North Jersey event?

The North Jersey Action Day will take place at Kean University and serves as the first day of World Cup ACT.

This day focuses on training and preparation, including:

  • Human Trafficking 101 (HT101) training
  • SOAP outreach training in partnership with The SOAP Project
  • Hands-on preparation for outreach efforts

Participants will gain the knowledge and tools needed to confidently engage in outreach activities, understand trafficking indicators, and support prevention efforts in their communities. It’s a strong foundation for those who plan to participate in outreach on Day 2 or take what they’ve learned back to their own organizations.

What happens at the May 31, 2026 South Jersey event?

The South Jersey Action Day will take place in Cherry Hill New Jersey from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm.

This event includes:

  • An Awareness Fair with community organizations
  • Human Trafficking 101 (HT101) training
  • Hands-on outreach in partnership with The SOAP Project

Participants will have the opportunity to go out in small groups to local hotels and provide resources that help staff recognize the signs of trafficking. These include awareness materials, missing children posters, and items such as soap and makeup wipes that contain information for individuals who may need help.

What is the NJ Freedom Gala and T-shirt connection?

The NJ Freedom Gala is an annual event hosted by the New Jersey Coalition Against Human Trafficking that supports survivor services, including the Survivor Assistance Fund.

The World Cup ACT T-shirt included with registration is more than just event apparel. It represents your participation in a statewide effort.

Participants will wear their shirts during both the North and South Jersey events, and this year, they will also be worn at the Freedom Gala as a visible sign of continued commitment and collaboration in the fight against human trafficking.

T-shirt sponsorships also offer organizations meaningful visibility while directly supporting awareness, outreach, and survivor-informed initiatives connected to World Cup ACT and beyond.

Additional T-shirts can be puchased here: https://worldcupact.org/product/world-cup-act-t-shirt/

What is The SOAP Project and how is it involved?

The SOAP Project is a national outreach initiative that partners with communities to provide hotels with resources to identify and report human trafficking.

During World Cup ACT, participants will take part in this outreach by delivering materials directly to hotels, helping to expand awareness where it is critically needed.