A good stable job is essential to economic security, independence, and a true pathway out of human trafficking. The SAFE Center’s Economic Empowerment program is tailored to meet the needs of human trafficking survivors and equips survivors with the skills, training, and support needed to secure employment and build sustainable careers.
The SAFE Center’s Economic Empowerment team provides:
- Career Readiness Assistance – resume writing, job search and application support, and interview preparation
- Education Support – assistance with the GED process, vocational or sector-specific training and education opportunities, and free online English courses
- Professional Skills Development – time management, teamwork, problem solving, communication, and digital literacy
- Specialized Career Training and Work Opportunities – apprenticeship/internship placement, technical skills training, and job opportunities, working with our corporate partners
The SAFE Center provides specialized training and connection to work opportunities in the hospitality and healthcare sectors:
- We are leading the nationwide rollout of the Hospitality Industry Job Training program for human trafficking survivors in partnership with Marriott International and with support from the American Hotel and Lodging Association Foundation. Working with our partners, by June 2025, we will have trained over 400 survivors in the U.S., providing them with industry-recognized certifications and job and internship search support.
- Our Healthcare Workforce Development program, advised by the University of Maryland Nursing School, connects survivors with training opportunities for healthcare positions, such as a Certified Nursing Assistant or Community Health Worker. Participants receive guidance on jobs, certifications, and career advancement within the healthcare industry.
The SAFE Center’s Housing Program helps survivors find safe, supportive, and affordable housing options. We provide wraparound services (including case management), build awareness about tenant rights, and help survivors navigate federal housing programs. We also assist survivors seeking to connect with landlords and property managers to address housing questions, and we refer survivors to resources that can help with complex housing concerns.
