Empowered Network (EN), formerly Empower Her Network

Problem Addressed Services for human trafficking survivors often end before a pathway to financial independence is established, resulting in estimated revictimization rates of 80%. This leaves most survivors perpetually cycling through systems and services, costing communities millions over their lifetime. Ending services too soon is the most expensive way not to solve the problem and an injustice to survivors and their children in need of enduring solutions. Mission Empowered Network collaborates with trafficking survivors to achieve financial resilience. Collaboration The barriers encountered by survivors of exploitation are layered, so solutions need to be as well. Immediate aftercare is a must—trauma support, temporary shelter, addressing legal issues, etc. Once survivors are stable enough to look outward and have exhausted frontline resources, their challenges shift. That’s where EN steps in. The “network” of Empowered Network consists of immediate aftercare organizations that refer survivors who have achieved basic stability but are at the critical juncture where services are expiring, and barriers still abound. Outcomes As an impact-focused organization, Empowered Network has seven years of data documenting the power of its innovative approach. To date, 95% graduate in stable housing and the average annual wage increase is 59% (from $21,203 to $33,750). This is often only the beginning; many survivors graduate as they complete an education, vocation, or certification program with a career path. When a survivor gets to a place of independence, they are significantly better positioned to protect their children. In this way, EN functions as a primary prevention program for at-risk youth. Vision Nationwide, trafficking survivors have access to the individualized support and resources they need to build enduring financial independence, release society from funding a perpetual service loop, and end generational cycles of exploitation.