Born out of his personal experience investigating human trafficking cases, Doug Gilmer was frustrated by the lack of resources. Over time, and after developing extensive collaborative relationships with victim serving organizations, he began to notice better outcome for both victims and cases. Motivated by this, he helped establish the first Child Sex Trafficking MDT in Alabama and one of the first nationally. His interest in this concept grew and he wanted to better understand why MDTs were successful, what success looked like, and what made them work. He decided to pursue a PhD where he could study the MDT construct. After three years of research, the first of its kind ever done, Doug was able to answer these questions. While some, limited, quantitative data existed showing increased arrests, prosecutions, and victims identified, it didn't tell the entire story. Nor did it provide data on sustainability. Using qualitative research, Doug conducted interviews and focus groups around the nation with law enforcement, direct service providers, and MDT leaders to learn the answers to questions such as, how MDT members function within a construct built on shared leadership and decision making; how law enforcement and victim service providers viewed one another; how success if measured within the MDT; and whether the construct should be a national protocol. His research identified a number of key themes to include those of collaboration, attitudes and opinions, conflicts and challenges, victim/survivor outcomes, and more. He also learned important lessons about overcoming challenges and conflicts, building trust, and dealing with power dynamics. Since the first time this presentation was given at JuST in 2021, it has evolved into a more interactive presentation with new insights and data based on continued research. Recently, the research was done again, but this time with survivors of HT who provided their insights and perspectives on the need for collaboration and MDTs to ensure the best outcomes. The underlying theme throughout all the research was that of shared purpose. Doug will share how teams can build shared purpose for greater effect. Over 300 pages of writing and research have been boiled down into an entertaining, memorable, and impactful presentation that will leave attendees with a fresh perspective on collaboration and an unforgettable lesson about s'mores (the kind you make around a campfire). This presentation has been given to audiences ranging from about 50 to over 2500 around the country with great effect.