Hi! I’m Desiree Demos. I am a fierce, and strong-willed advocate for Survivors of the sex trade with Living in Freedom Together (LIFT) here in Worcester. My spirituality is my center, and I am always focused on looking for the signs in life that lead me to fulfill my purpose during my time in this world. I was raised in Western Massachusetts in my earlier years, but moved up and down the east coast searching for my forever home, which ended being right here in the great city of Worcester! In my free time, I enjoy fishing, camping, snowboarding, and visiting hidden river swimming holes throughout New England that you can only find by talking to the locals. Bonus points if it includes cliff jumping!
Please tell us about your current career and what you love most about what you do?
I am the Senior Director of Community Based Programs at Living in Freedom Together (LIFT), and I love everything about this job! The part I love the most is witnessing other Survivors break out of systems meant to destroy them, and then coming back to join our movement to end the sex trade.
What is your favorite restaurant in Worcester, and what is your favorite dish?
Caribbean Flavor- stew chicken w/ rice and peas and vegetables, and a side of plantains
Who is the most interesting person you’ve ever met?
Hulk Hogan
If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
Egypt- The pyramids, the temples, the history. I feel a strong connection to Egypt from a past life or something!
What is your go to band when you can’t decide what to listen to?
Red Hot Chili Peppers
What is your best advice?
Stand in your truth, because no matter where the cards fall, you will at least know you did what was right.
What is one of the top three items on your Bucket List?
The zip line across Grand Canyon, ride a mountain coaster, and buy a motorcycle.
What current/former local business makes you the most nostalgic about Worcester?
Coney Island
Choosing anyone alive and a non-relative with whom would you love to have lunch? Why?
Any of the women who were executed during the Salem witch trials. That was an insane time in history, and I would like to speak with the women who experienced it.
Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
I see myself continuing our mission at LIFT, standing with other Survivors, and helping to dismantle broken systems.
What is something interesting that most people don’t know about you, even your friends or family.
I desperately want to be on one of those survival reality shows.
What 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Family, dogs, and peace.
If a motion picture was made of your life, what actor/actress would you choose to play you?
Can we go back to 1989?? Lucille Ball
What is your favorite thing or something unique about Worcester?
I love the graffiti art throughout the city.
What is your favorite smell?
Campfire
Who inspires you to be better?
The strong, courageous, and motivated folk I work alongside everyday.
Q: Who would you like to see nominated for this project, The Faces of Worcester and Why?
Alina Bluto, she is the Program Director of Jana’ Place, a residential treatment program for survivors of the sex trade in Worcester, and an amazing human being!
