Today we’d like to introduce you to Lurlene Diaz.
Hi Lurlene, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I’ve been serving in faith-based nonprofit leadership for over 40 years, driven by my love for God and a deep commitment to walk alongside people in need. I’m an ordained minister with a degree in Spiritual Life and Formation. Ministry has taken me into underserved communities across the U.S. and internationally—always with the goal of bringing hope and healing where it’s needed most.
My personal connection to the fight against human trafficking began 30 years ago when my family became guardians of a child who had been trafficked by her own parents. That experience marked me deeply and ignited a lifelong prayer for more resources and support for individuals impacted by trafficking.
Today, I have the privilege of working for Created Women a recovery program for survivors of human trafficking. Every day, I have the privilege of leading a team that walks alongside survivors on their journey of healing and restoration.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The journey has certainly had its challenges, and it has taken many years to get to this point. For most of my career, I worked for a large, international organization with more than 150 years of history. Transitioning from that environment to a small agency—where I was relatively unknown and had fewer resources—was a culture shock that took about a year to work through. Looking back, it’s incredible to see how both my personal and professional experiences have equipped me for the work I do today.
The work itself is not without obstacles. The road to recovery for survivors is rarely linear—it’s often long, filled with ups and downs, and sometimes requires multiple attempts. Yet in the midst of those challenges, I continue to be inspired by the resilience of the women we serve. Watching them heal and step into the fullness of the life they were created to live is what makes every struggle worthwhile.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I have the privilege of serving as the Executive Director of Created Women, where our mission is to help women redeem, restore, and reclaim their lives. Created offers both residential and non-residential programs designed to support women impacted by sex trafficking and sexual exploitation.
Our four therapeutic residential programs provide safe, trauma-informed housing. These Safe Houses offer stability, case management, life-skills classes, counseling, and spiritual care to help women heal and pursue independence. Currently, Created operates multiple homes across Tampa Bay, offering structured support and a sense of community.
Our non-residential services are offered through our Drop-In Center, giving women immediate access to clothing, hygiene products, food, case management, job-readiness resources, and referrals to essential services. These programs meet women where they are—on the streets, in clubs, jails, and the community—offering hope, connection, and practical support. What sets Created apart is our full continuum of care, addressing the entire spectrum of needs for survivors of human trafficking.
I think people would say I’m known for being a good steward. Every dollar that comes into this mission is a gift of trust, and we use it wisely and with purpose. My greatest joy is witnessing the transformation of lives. Of course, none of this happens alone. I’m deeply grateful for the incredible team of staff, donors, and community partners who make this work possible. Healing always happens in community.
How do you think about luck?
Every experience or circumstance as an opportunity. Every individual and every organization go through seasons—times when everything seems to be going well, and times when challenges are more prevalent. In my personal life, I strive to remain grounded in my calling, values, and integrity, and I am grateful for a close inner circle that provides accountability and unwavering support.
At Created, our goal is to operate with the same intentionality. We are careful to stay true to our mission and avoid mission drift. Our team regularly evaluates both our programs and operations to ensure we provide the highest quality care and support—programs that truly help survivors recover, heal, and reclaim their lives.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.createdwomen.com/
