Team Against the Traffick Northwest Bank

Sara (Thomas) Ward

Residential Lending Closing Manager

Sara’s Why: I am a new mom to two beautiful girls, ages 11 and 16.  I learned of Gracehaven through Northwest Bank and Jen Lukat, and after volunteering there this fall and learning about the work they are doing to help survivors and prevent trafficking here in Columbus, I could not wait to volunteer again. Plus, I kind of like heights and this sounds fun!

Greg Poprock

Director of Dealer Services Credit

Greg’s Why: I am going “Over the Edge” to support the fight against child sex and labor trafficking. As a dad of three, with a fourth on the way, it’s hard not to think about kids who are being exploited instead of protected. Every child deserves to feel safe, and not all of them do.

That’s why I’m supporting Gracehaven and the work they’re doing to help these kids move from surviving to thriving. If stepping over the edge helps bring awareness and support, it’s an easy yes for me!

Elizabeth Mack

Senior Marketing Lead, Line of Business Programs

Elizabeth’s Why: As someone who moved to Ohio, I’ve come to really appreciate the Columbus area and all it has to offer. I was surprised, however, to learn that Columbus frequently appears in national rankings due to the volume of human trafficking cases and its role as a regional hub. 

Last year, I volunteered behind the scenes helping others participate in Over the Edge, and through that experience I began to understand just how significant this issue is in our community. I was honestly struck by the scale and impact. 

This year, I’m challenging myself to take a bigger step — literally rappelling — not only to help raise funds, but also to bring greater awareness to this important cause.

Adrienne Lipstraw

Retail Lending Sales Administrator

Adrienne’s Why: I volunteered for Over the Edge after learning more about Gracehaven's mission and the impact of their daily work. Watching my nieces grow up has deepened my desire for a world where they-and all children-can feel safe and protected. I want to rappel and help amplify Gracehaven's mission in a bold way.

Jennifer Lukat

Executive Director, Head of Retail Credit

Jennfer’s Why: Last year, I stepped over the edge for the first time to support Over the Edge and to stand up for children in our community who have experienced unimaginable harm through sex trafficking.

I am rappelling for a second year because this work matters deeply to me. Child sex trafficking is happening here, in our own city, and it demands our attention, our voices, and our action. Turning away isn’t an option.

The impact Gracehaven has on this community is extraordinary. They don’t just rescue—they restore. They provide safety, healing, and hope to survivors, and they work tirelessly to bring awareness to a crisis that too often goes unseen and unspoken.

If my willingness to go “Over the Edge” can help raise awareness, spark conversation, or provide resources that change a child’s future, then it’s worth every step!

This is more than a fundraiser to me—it’s a commitment to stand with survivors and to help shine a light where it’s needed most.