Runaway youth are often misunderstood, viewed as “rebellious” or “troubled,” but behind every runaway is a story of pain, fear, or a desperate need to survive. Instead of judging these youth, we need to see their actions as a call for help and understand that they often run from unsafe environments or toward perceived love and acceptance. By changing the narrative and offering compassion, guidance, and support, we can empower these young people to seek safety, find their voice, and build brighter futures.

In cities across America, thousands of children remain missing, but innovative collaboration can change that. During the first-ever Missing Child Recovery Event, the National Child Protection Task Force (NCPTF) and a coalition of agencies tackled 50 missing child cases, recovering 41 kids in a single week. This groundbreaking event in Buffalo, NY, is transforming how law enforcement agencies fight child trafficking and exploitation. Learn how NCPTF is breaking down silos, using advanced technology, and forging new partnerships to bring missing kids home.

In a historic operation, 47 missing children were located in Erie County through a collaborative effort involving NCPTF, law enforcement, and support services. This first-of-its-kind rescue mission in New York brought together expertise from 22 public and private entities, transforming lives and strengthening future efforts to protect our kids.

What sets NCPTF apart is not just our mission to bring missing kids home but the values that guide us—Excellence, Collaboration, and Dedication. Our values drive our decisions, shape our culture, and power our commitment to doing the best work possible to bring missing kids back to safety. Join us in making a difference, one child at a time.

NCPTF’s collaborative rescue operations are transforming the fight against child exploitation and missing kids across the U.S. Through strategic partnerships and cutting-edge intelligence, our team has helped recover over two-thirds of children involved in recent operations, proving that united efforts can break barriers and bring missing children home.

Our primary focus is helping law enforcement bring missing children home through rapid-response case assistance, accounting for 40% of our investigative requests in 2024. As we grow, we’re expanding support systems to tackle complex case backlogs, ensuring every missing child receives expert attention. Join us in making a bigger impact—together, we can bring more kids home.

Fundraise for NCPTF: In our ever-changing world, one thing remains vital– safeguarding our children. The National Child Protection Task Force works hard to ensure that children can look forward to brighter futures, free from harm. Today, we invite you to be part of this important mission by helping fundraise for us or joining our fundraising team as a volunteer. Together, we can create a better future for children who need our help the most.