Founded in 2010, 3Strands Global Foundation (3SGF) is a California-based nonprofit that provides human trafficking prevention education and survivor services across the U.S. and beyond. Since its inception, 3SGF has reached over a million youth and adults through its prevention programs and provided comprehensive reintegration services to over 1000 survivors, expanding its impact through partnerships and trauma-informed, survivor-guided approaches.
The Jensen Project has awarded 3Strands Global Foundation (3SGF) a grant to support their survivor-designed program that propels female survivors of sex trafficking into high-demand, sustainable careers in the medical field. Over the course of this grant term, twelve survivor clients will be enrolled in expedited industry training for medical assisting, phlebotomy, or medical coding and billing. This funding will cover tuition, books, medical supplies, and scrubs for each participant, as well as provide a temporary stipend to help offset living costs while engaged in programming. All participants will receive holistic support through the comprehensive Employ + Empower program, addressing personal and economic insecurity to ensure long-term stability.
Economic insecurity is a significant vulnerability exploited by traffickers. The Employ + Empower (E+E) program was designed to tackle these root causes by providing trauma-informed programming, direct services, and sustainable employment pathways, thereby helping clients achieve long-term stability. Since its launch in 2016, E+E has evolved to meet the needs of survivors, community leaders, and advocates, incorporating insights from over 80 community resource partners and a multidisciplinary team of specialists. The grant will enable 3SGF to enhance their Medical Careers Initiative, offering a well-supported pathway to stable, dignified careers in the medical field.
Participants will benefit from the holistic support offered by 3SGF’s survivor empowerment center, The Table, which provides access to essential services like food, laundry, childcare, and study rooms.
This initiative is vital as it not only addresses immediate educational and economic needs but also fosters long-term independence and resilience among survivors. The Jensen Project’s support will significantly enhance 3SGF’s capacity to deliver impactful, survivor-centered services, ultimately empowering survivors to transition from “employable” to “competitive” in their chosen medical careers. By addressing the unique strengths and needs of survivors, this program aims to create lasting change and improve the overall well-being and stability of its participants.
3Strands Global Foundation operates a drop-in center called The Table, which offers a range of services for survivors, including case management, counseling, and educational resources. Their education program focuses on medical field training, with specific tracks such as phlebotomy certification. This aligns well with our mission, as they aim to provide survivors with skills that lead to sustainable, well-paying jobs.
Their drop-in center is intentionally designed to avoid the typical sterile environment, opting instead for a cozy and colorful atmosphere. Security is a priority, with a multi-level system to ensure the safety of all participants. They value data-driven decision-making, using tools to measure the thriving levels of their participants. This focus on not just sustaining but helping survivors thrive is a key aspect of their mission.
Their economic empowerment program is particularly unique, as it goes beyond typical crafts-based initiatives and aims to set survivors up for generational success. They understand the true cost per client and have requested funds to support 12 individuals, highlighting their commitment to making a meaningful impact.
Their application stood out for its distinctiveness and intentional design. The Survivor Advisory Board (SAB) is a notable addition, demonstrating their commitment to including survivors in all parts of 3SGF programming. This integration ensures that survivor perspectives are valued and incorporated into their operations.
Out of all the site visits, 3Strands Global Foundation excelled in integrating survivors into their workspace, ensuring they felt empowered and supported. Several survivors on staff handle various roles, from case management to leading the SAB, to managing the medical training program. This inclusive approach not only empowers survivors but also enriches the organization’s understanding and effectiveness in supporting their community.
"Over the course of this grant term, twelve survivor clients will be enrolled in expedited industry training for medical assisting, phlebotomy, or medical coding and billing."
A yearly grant program, funding up to $2 Million to advance economic empowerment and housing opportunities for agencies who serve adult female survivors of human trafficking.
Armed with the latest news and insights on anti-trafficking organizations and policies, you can join us in the fight against sexual violence.
It takes funding for organizations to help women impacted by sexual violence, but it’s just the starting point. The Jensen Project’s holistic approach empowers nonprofits with grants, resources, and ongoing support to fuel the fight against sexual violence.