2010
Vision of I’ve Got A Name was born
Bob Burton first learned about the issue of sex trafficking and felt called to fight against it. He began to support an international nonprofit rescuing girls from the sex trade in Southeast Asia.
2013
Became a 501c3 organization
Bob began to shift his focus to fight sex trafficking locally in Nebraska. He held multiple events that raised funds to begin Street Outreach in Lincoln, which originally operated out of The Bay – a community space for local youth.
2016
Hired first Executive Director
With 8 years of experience fighting sex trafficking in Southeast Asia, Paul Yates was hired as I’ve Got A Name’s first Executive Director to further develop our mission with the help of dedicated volunteers.
2018
Hired new Street Outreach Director
Megan Johnson-Cook stepped into the shoes of our first Street Outreach Director and began utilizing her past-life experience to personally connect with the women and girls we serve.
2020
Growth in community involvement
Following a student internship, Ally Sargus was hired as the Marketing and Communications Director to increase awareness of the issue and our fight against it. Despite the unprecedented times, interest of involvement grew, and we welcomed the addition of student interns and survivor advocates.
2022
Expanded Street Outreach team
Pam Mock joined the team as a Street Outreach Specialist, utilizing her background in working with parents and youth.
2024
Celebrated over a decade of service
Following Bob’s retirement from the University of Nebraska, he rejoined our team to help advance the mission and drive financial support. Alongside him, we brought on Paige DuRandt as Community Relations Director to assist with strengthening partnerships, deepening community engagement, and expanding our reach.
2025
Prepared for the next chapter
With Street Outreach demand continuing at record levels, our team remained steadfast in providing individualized care and support to those we serve. As Paul concluded 10 years of dedicated leadership as Executive Director, we prepared for Bob to step into the position. During this transition, Paige’s role evolved into Strategy and Operations Director, helping strengthen internal operations for continued growth.
