Broadband company serving Grant County commits to fight sex trafficking
By Logan Bagett on Friday, June 12th, 2026 in Eastern/Southeast Oregon News More Top Stories
JOHN DAY – (Press Release from Rally Networks)
Rally Networks proudly announces it has achieved Operation IFAST Certification, a designation awarded to companies that demonstrate a deep commitment to combating domestic sex trafficking through employee training, community collaboration, and financial investment.
Rally Networks is the first Internet Service Provider in the State of Oregon to do so.
Operation IFAST, Internet Service Providers Fight Against Sex Trafficking, is a national initiative led by Guardian Group, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing and disrupting the sex trafficking of women and children across the United States. Through IFAST Certification, companies commit to three core pillars: training employees to recognize and report trafficking indicators, connecting local law enforcement with Guardian Group’s advanced analytical resources, and investing annually to fund Guardian Group’s mission.
“At Rally Networks, taking care of our neighbors in Eastern Oregon, and across our service footprint is a top priority,” said Shem Carlson, Human Resources Manager at Rally Networks. “By completing the rigorous certification process, Rally Networks joins a growing network of companies nationwide that are taking proactive steps to protect vulnerable populations. We are committed to making sure that the communities we serve remain safe and connected, acting as an extra set of eyes and ears.”
“Our brand promise is simple: we’re here to take care of you,” said Sam Farr, VP of Human Resources at Rally Networks. “Achieving the IFAST Certification means we are actively working to protect Eastern Oregon, and all the communities we serve. Our team’s dedication to this training ensures that we aren’t just local experts in connectivity, but dedicated partners in safeguarding the most vulnerable among us.”
Jeff Keith, CEO and Founder of Guardian Group, praised Rally Networks for its leadership and impact:
“IFAST Certification represents more than awareness; it reflects action, accountability, and leadership. Companies like Rally Networks are proving that the private sector can play a powerful role in disrupting trafficking and protecting the most vulnerable. Their commitment directly fuels real-world impact, and we are honored to partner with them.”
Through its IFAST commitment, Rally Networks has trained its workforce, established local law enforcement connections with Guardian Group’s free analytical resources for trafficking cases, and ongoing financial investment annually to support Guardian Group’s national efforts.
To learn more about Operation IFAST and IFAST Certification, visit www.guardiangroup.org/operation-ifast.
