Rescue Hill

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Rescue Hill

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Rescue Hill

Local Resources

Rescue Hill

Local Resources

About Us

Providing safe spaces and innovative options for survivors of human trafficking

Our History

Rescue Hill was founded in 2020 by Amanda and Steve, former Nazarene missionaries who served in Haiti and Dominica. While overseas, Amanda and Steve witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of human trafficking on women and children—experiences that deeply shaped their calling to fight exploitation. Upon returning to the Dallas-Fort Worth area, Amanda began volunteering with local anti-trafficking organizations, gaining critical experience and insight into the resources and gaps within victim care services. After several years in the field, Amanda and Steve felt led to take action. Together, they launched Rescue Hill, a nonprofit organization dedicated to filling the unmet needs in the anti-trafficking landscape, starting with the creation of an emergency drop-in center in the heart of Arlington, specifically designed to serve mothers and children. From this early work, Amanda began collaborating closely with both local and federal law enforcement. She helped develop training materials to equip officers with trauma-informed approaches to victim care, further solidifying Rescue Hill’s commitment to building trust between law enforcement and survivors, and ensuring traffickers are held accountable.

In 2022, Rescue Hill partnered with The Jensen Project to explore new ways to expand residential services in North Texas. Together, they focused on introducing a stabilization model that could serve survivors in their most vulnerable moments. In 2023, Rescue Hill became the local operator for Starla House—Texas’s first 30–90 day stabilization home for expecting mothers and mothers with children. This home provides survivors with a safe and supportive environment as they begin their healing journey and transition into long-term housing solutions. Rescue Hill remains committed to continually assessing the needs of the community and evolving to offer modern, compassionate care for survivors of human trafficking.

Our Name

Did you know that Rescue Hill’s legacy is deeply rooted in powerful, trailblazing women? In fact, we use the word “RESCUE” not because it describes what we do, but because it describes where we’ve come from. Maggie Mae Upchurch and Pearl Simmons were innovators who understood human trafficking in a day when very little was known about the issue. Maggie Mae and her husband J.T. felt led to open a home in Arlington, Texas of refuge for exploited women in crisis. In 1942, J.T. said, “American girls are bought and sold in the shambles of shame, and are dragged, by their owners, into a life so terrible it makes one shudder to think of it.” Maggie Mae and her husband welcomed women from all over the country who needed a safe space, and the property sat on a knoll what would eventually become known as Rescue Hill. Today you can walk through a park on that property and visit a cemetery and memorial garden.

Our Team

Amanda

Amanda Pettit is the Founder and Executive Director of Rescue Hill, an innovative nonprofit combating human trafficking in Arlington, Texas. A respected national leader, Amanda partners with law enforcement, direct service providers, and faith-based organizations to provide survivor-centered services, including emergency housing and stabilization through Starla House.With experience spanning Central America, Haiti, and the U.S., Amanda brings a trauma-informed, faith-rooted approach to training and advocacy. Her work bridges compassion and action, inspiring real change and lasting freedom for survivors. Outside her mission-driven work, Amanda enjoys home design, her new granddaughter, and quiet mornings with coffee on her front porch.

Steve

Steve is the Director of Security and Special Projects at Rescue Hill and the husband of Executive Director Amanda Pettit. A former contractor and missionary, Steve is a builder in every sense of the word. Steve’s passion lies in caring for people and ensuring no one is left behind. By transforming Amanda’s vision and dreams into reality, he seeks to build joy and encouragement into every day, keeping the team’s mission front and center. Steve’s leadership shines through not only in his responsibilities at Rescue Hill but also in his role as senior pastor at Arlington First Church of the Nazarene. A gifted preacher and facilitator, Steve passionately believes that everyone has a purpose and destiny, and he actively guides people to strengthen their faith, serve their communities, and walk in their calling.

Tiffany

Tiffany is the Director of Strategic Initiatives and joined the Rescue Hill team full-time at the end of 2022, but her heart was in it long before that. After starting as a volunteer in 2021, she quickly fell in love with the mission and knew this work was where she was meant to be. With a Bachelor's in Theology & Ministry (2015) and a Master of Divinity (2022), Tiffany brings a decade of ministry experience, including serving as a youth pastor and college pastor and running an after-school program. When she’s not pouring into Rescue Hill, Tiffany finds joy in life with her husband, their three awesome kids, and their poodle, Millie. She’s happiest spending time outdoors with her family or diving into a good book.

Amy

Amy is the Program Director at Rescue Hill, where she leads efforts to support survivors of human trafficking through trauma-informed, client-centered care. Her journey began as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA), where she witnessed the life-changing impact of advocacy and individualized support. Amy has served in frontline roles, including Residential Care Provider (RCP) and Crisis Advocate. These experiences continue to shape her approach, which prioritizes safety, dignity, and empowerment for every survivor. Outside of work, Amy is a proud mother of three and grandmother of two. She finds joy in beach vacations, new adventures, and living out her faith through service to others.

Leanna

Leanna is the Residential Coordinator at Rescue Hill and her passion for helping survivors of exploitation find freedom and thrive comes from her own lived experience. She’s especially passionate about raising awareness and championing prevention efforts to protect vulnerable communities and spark lasting change. Outside of her work, Leanna is always up for an adventure—whether it’s exploring new places or trying out a bold new recipe. As a true foodie, she loves discovering hidden gems and sharing meals that bring people together.

Audrey

Audrey is the Client Care Coordinator at Rescue Hill and was our first volunteer in 2022 where she worked as an RCP for around two years before joining our full-time staff. She is a graduate from Dallas Baptist University with a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice and a Master's Degree in Leadership. In her spare time, she loves pilates, sewing, and playing volleyball!

Ismelda

Ismelda Cruz serves as a Victim Advocate at Rescue Hill, bringing both professional expertise and compassionate care to survivors of human trafficking. With a background in social work and hands-on experience supporting victims of violent crimes through her internship with the Irving Police Department, Ismelda is dedicated to guiding survivors through crisis intervention, safety planning, and access to vital resources. Fluent in English and Spanish, she is passionate about walking alongside survivors in their healing journey and ensuring they feel seen, heard, and supported.

Cydnei

Cydnei Drake, MSW serves as a Victim Advocate at Rescue Hill, bringing nearly 15 years of experience in mental health, nonprofit leadership, and program development. She has led multi-million-dollar initiatives, created workforce and housing programs, and built strong partnerships to expand community support services. Passionate about equity and advocacy, Cydnei is dedicated to walking alongside survivors with compassion and strength, ensuring they have the tools and resources to heal and thrive.

Our Team

Amanda Pettit

Executive Director and Co-Founder
Amanda Pettit is the Founder and Executive Director of Rescue Hill, an innovative nonprofit combating human trafficking in Arlington, Texas. A respected national leader, Amanda partners with law enforcement, direct service providers, and faith-based organizations to provide survivor-centered services, including emergency housing and stabilization through Starla House.With experience spanning Central America, Haiti, and the U.S., Amanda brings a trauma-informed, faith-rooted approach to training and advocacy. Her work bridges compassion and action, inspiring real change and lasting freedom for survivors. Outside her mission-driven work, Amanda enjoys home design, her new granddaughter, and quiet mornings with coffee on her front porch.

Steve Pettit

Director of Security and Maintenance and Co-Founder
Steve Pettit is the Director of Security and Maintenance at Rescue Hill and the husband of Executive Director Amanda Pettit. A former contractor and missionary, Steve is a builder in every sense of the word. Steve’s passion lies in caring for people and ensuring no one is left behind. By transforming Amanda’s vision and dreams into reality, he seeks to build joy and encouragement into every day, keeping the team’s mission front and center. Steve’s leadership shines through not only in his responsibilities at Rescue Hill but also in his role as senior pastor at Arlington First Church of the Nazarene. A gifted preacher and facilitator, Steve passionately believes that everyone has a purpose and destiny, and he actively guides people to strengthen their faith, serve their communities, and walk in their calling.

Tiffany Hann

Director of Initiatives
Tiffany joined the Rescue Hill team full-time at the end of 2022, but her heart was in it long before that. After starting as a volunteer in 2021, she quickly fell in love with the mission and knew this work was where she was meant to be. With a Bachelor's in Theology & Ministry (2015) and a Master of Divinity (2022), Tiffany brings a decade of ministry experience, including serving as a youth pastor and college pastor and running an after-school program. When she’s not pouring into Rescue Hill, Tiffany finds joy in life with her husband, their three awesome kids, and their poodle, Millie. She’s happiest spending time outdoors with her family or diving into a good book. Tiffany’s passion for people and deep care for others shine through in everything she does, and she’s honored to be part of a team that’s making a difference every day.

Hannah Walker

Director of Development and Finance
Hannah graduated from Texas A&M in 2017 with a degree in architecture and began her career as an architectural representative for a commercial developer specializing in luxury hospitality projects. In 2020, she co-founded Sinclair Digital, an innovative solutions provider transforming the industry with sustainable and agile electrical and IT systems. As Chief Operating Officer, she led the company’s efforts in design, construction, and post-project support, helping reduce construction complexity, costs, and embodied carbon. That same year, Hannah joined the Board of Directors for Rescue Hill as Treasurer and transitioned to full-time staff in January 2025. Passionate about serving her community, especially those often overlooked, she dedicates her time to making a meaningful impact. Outside of work, she enjoys playing soccer and spending time with her two young children.

Amy Corcoran

Starla House Program Director
Amy Corcoran is the Program Director at Rescue Hill, where she leads efforts to support survivors of human trafficking through trauma-informed, client-centered care. Her journey began as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA), where she witnessed the life-changing impact of advocacy and individualized support. Amy has served in frontline roles, including Residential Care Provider (RCP) and Crisis Advocate. These experiences continue to shape her approach, which prioritizes safety, dignity, and empowerment for every survivor. As Program Director, she oversees the delivery of comprehensive support services—connecting clients to housing, employment, legal aid, healthcare, and community resources that foster long-term recovery. Outside of work, Amy is a proud mother of three and grandmother of two. She finds joy in beach vacations, new adventures, and living out her faith through service to others.

Leanna Kindred

Starla House Residential Coordinator
Leanna’s passion for helping survivors of exploitation find freedom and thrive comes from her own lived experience. Her personal journey of healing, supported by local advocacy organizations in the DFW area, opened the door for her to step into the world of anti-trafficking work. Today, Leanna serves as the Residential Care Coordinator at Starla House, where she supports residents with compassion, strength, and insight. She’s especially passionate about raising awareness and championing prevention efforts to protect vulnerable communities and spark lasting change. Outside of her work, Leanna is always up for an adventure—whether it’s exploring new places or trying out a bold new recipe. As a true foodie, she loves discovering hidden gems and sharing meals that bring people together.

Audrey Hutto

Starla House Client Care Coordinator
Audrey was our first volunteer at Rescue Hill! She worked as an RCP for around two years before joining our full-time staff as the Client Care Coordinator. She is a graduate from Dallas Baptist University with a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice and a Master's Degree in Leadership. In her spare time, she loves pilates, sewing, and playing volleyball!

Connect

If you, or someone you know, is a victim of trafficking who currently needs assistance, please call the National Human Trafficking Hotline.

+(888)-373-7888

If you are an agency or service provider, please fill our out referral form to inquire about Rescue Hill services>
Starla House Referral Form

General Inquiry

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