By Alex Murphy
"Ignite Hope" is the theme of this year's annual Southern Utah fundraiser for Holding Out HELP. And apparently, plenty of people are eager to do just that! The event sold out before we could get the word out through the Toquerville Sentinel.
We'll try to be quicker next year!
But supporting Holding Out HELP doesn't require attending a fundraiser. The organization welcomes donations year-round, and its work is especially relevant to our Southern Utah communities.
What Is Holding Out HELP?
Holding Out HELP (HOH) assists individuals and families leaving polygamous communities, helping them build independent, self-sufficient lives.
Based in Draper, Utah, the organization also has a Southern Utah division serving St. George, Cedar City, Colorado City, and surrounding communities. Remote assistance is available for those who cannot access services in person.
For individuals leaving closed religious communities, the challenges can be enormous. Leaving may mean losing family relationships, friendships, financial security, and nearly every familiar part of life. Some have experienced abuse, exploitation, or limited educational opportunities.
HOH helps people navigate these challenges by providing practical resources, personal support, and a path toward independence.
How It All Began
Holding Out HELP began in 2008 when a family fleeing a polygamous community arrived on Tonia Tewell's doorstep in the Salt Lake area.
"I was a relatively new Utah resident," she recalled, "and I was shocked at what was happening in the United States, and in God's name — right in my own backyard."
What Tonia learned about life inside some of these communities inspired her to establish an organization dedicated to helping those who wanted to leave.
My Personal Connection
My involvement with HOH began through that very family. The woman who arrived on Tonia's doorstep became a close friend of mine through a church group 17 years ago.
Through our friendship, I began learning about the difficulties faced by people leaving polygamous communities. What started as a personal connection eventually grew into a commitment to help others. Today, I lead Holding Out HELP's efforts in Southern Utah.
This work has shown me that human trafficking, child exploitation, and abuse are not problems confined to distant places. They can happen much closer to home than we realize.
And I've also seen the difference that compassionate, practical assistance can make.
You Can Still Help Ignite Hope
Although this year's fundraiser is sold out, the need for assistance continues throughout the year.
Whether through a donation, volunteering, or simply learning more about the organization, there are ways to support people working toward safer, more independent lives.
Visit Holding Out HELP to learn more about its mission and how you can help.
We missed the opportunity to announce this year's fundraiser in time, but we haven't missed the opportunity to make a difference.