Although the prevalence of trafficking and its harmful impacts have been thoroughly studied, there remains a significant lack of understanding as to which programs and interventions are effective. Additionally, as the anti-trafficking movement evolves, it faces critical questions: What are the most essential needs of each survivor? How can organizations effectively measure impact on the outcomes that truly matter? What strategies should policymakers and funders prioritize to reduce vulnerability to trafficking? These are pivotal issues that must be addressed to create lasting change in the lives of survivors. This presentation will draw on several sources and include survivor perspectives derived from The National Survivor Study conducted by Polaris, published 2023 - In Harms Way: How Systems Fail Human Trafficking Survivors. This report states, “a passive role in data collection skews power dynamics and leaves survivors without control over what story the data tells and how it is used. More evidence is urgently needed to fill these data gaps and build effective programs and policies.” Also included will be key learnings from Everfree’s work, including trauma-informed approaches and survivor-centered care models, demonstrating how collaboration and data sharing across sectors can improve service coordination and effectiveness, while emphasizing the importance of lived-experience expertise in shaping best practices. Utilizing the data and responses from both resources, this presentation will demonstrate the importance of survivor informed and individualized service provision.
Trigger Warning: This presentation contains information (written, spoken, or visual) that may be triggering or (re)traumatizing to attendees.
Helen Stiver is the U.S. Programs Coordinator at EverFree, managing anti-trafficking partnerships focused on prevention and aftercare. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Human Services and has worked in the nonprofit sector for over 18 years, focusing on disability accessibility. Combining her professional and lived experience, she strives to advance the presence of survivor leadership.