From Sex Trade Involvement to Advocacy: Nikki’s Journey of Hope and Resilience

Nikki’s story is one of transformation, resilience, and hope.

Once involved in the sex trade herself and on the streets of Worcester, Nikki faced the harsh realities

of abuse and trauma. However, her journey took a remarkable turn when she decided to leave that

life behind and dedicate herself to helping others in similar situations.

Nikki Bell Pena founded Lift in 2014, a non-profit organization aimed at supporting women escaping

the abusive and traumatic life of sex work. “Lift began as just a pot of coffee and clothes from my

own closet,” Nikki recalls. Her humble beginnings quickly grew into a successful organization that

provided essential resources, support, and a safe haven for many women.

Under Nikki’s leadership, Lift flourished until 2022, when she departed from Lift and has been

working to establish another non-profit with a similar mission. After Nikki’s departure from Lift in

2022, the organization underwent significant changes. According to an interview with Audra Doody,

the co-executive director, and the Telegram & Gazette, Lift closed its overnight services, laid off 11

staff members, and renamed the non-profit to “Safe Exit Initiative”[2].

Despite the challenges she continues to face, Nikki remains a hopeful advocate for those still trapped

in the life she was fortunate enough to escape.

Recently, Nikki’s advocacy work has been underscored by a troubling report from the Department of

Justice (DOJ). The investigation, which began in November 2022, looked back into cases and

reports as early as 2017 and revealed that the Worcester Police Department (WPD) and

the city engaged in practices that violated constitutional and federal laws[1]. The report highlighted

two major issues: the use of excessive force by WPD and the involvement of undercover officers in

sexual contact with women suspected of being involved in the commercial sex trade[1].

The DOJ report further stated that more than half of the women surveyed reported that undercover

WPD officers engaged in prostitution stings had tricked or misled them into providing sexual

acts. Nearly half of the women reported that officers had offered less, or no, punishment in exchangefor sex acts. When advocates shared these concerns with WPD officials, including the Captain of

WPD’s Vice Unit, which enforces prostitution laws, WPD reportedly responded that women often

fabricate such claims and that without specific complaints, nothing could be done[1].

For Nikki, this report stirs deep emotions as it reflects her own experiences with law enforcement

during her time involved in sex trade. “It’s disheartening to see that these practices are still

happening,” she says. “But it also strengthens my resolve to continue fighting for justice and support

for these women.” Nikki emphasizes the importance of believing the victims: “Their voices are just as

important as anyone else’s and they need to be heard and taken seriously. I want to highlight the

bravery of those who have come forward and acknowledge the dangerousness they face should they

be discredited. The DOJ is more than capable of doing their job, I am asking that people lean into

their report and use it as leverage for change going forward”

Nikki’s journey from involvement in sex trade to becoming a beacon of hope for others is a

testament to her strength and determination. Her significant work with what once was Lift and the

mission of her up and coming non-profit continues to make a significant impact on the lives of many

women, offering them a chance at a better future.

As Nikki looks ahead, she remains committed to her mission. “I want everyone involved in sex

trade out there to know that there is hope,” she says. “No matter how dark things may seem, there is

a way out.”

Nikki’s story is not just about overcoming adversity; it’s about using one’s experiences to create

positive change and inspire others. Her legacy is one of compassion, resilience, and an unyielding

belief in the power of hope.

[1]: Investigation of the Worcester Police Department and the City of Worcester

[2]: Worcester: LIFT social service agency drops 15-bed shelter, lays off staff

References

[1] Investigation of the Worcester Police Department and the City of Worcester

[2] WASSERBERG, et al – United States Department of Justice

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