Designed For Joy is a transitional work experience for women coming from trafficking, homelessness, time in prison, overcoming addiction or other vulnerable situations. DFJ provides sustainable living wage work hours while also building up confidence and refreshing resumes for a seamless re-entrance into the workforce for survivors.
After a trip to Rwanda, founders were introduced to an artisan group that had taken 30 women off of the streets perviously working in the sex industry and kept them off of the streets while producing quality handmade products. They provided a safe, encouraging and faith based work environment.
This model was recreated in 2017 and with two volunteers and generous financial supporters, Designed For Joy was born.
The overall goal for DFJ is to build confidence in the artisans crafting the products, to grow them in their faith, and to restore their trust in their community.
Designed For Joy removes the stigma of vulnerability. They do this through the production and sale of high end handmade leather, fabric and metal goods. Giving women something to take pride in and work towards is a healthy, healing step moving them in the direction of a safe, fulfilling career.
By providing immediate employment DFJ removes the fear and unknown of an unstable income that many survivors face when trying to exit the Sex Industry.
Support from The Jensen Project will expand the number of living-wage hours available to survivors of human trafficking referred to them by their client support partners. These programs create job opportunities specifically for marginalized women allowing them to earn a solid paycheck and move into a more stable mental and financial position.
Expanding the number of hours they can provide has a direct impact on the additional women they hire as well as a ripple effect on their families and communities.
"Through strategic funding support provided by The Jensen Project, DFJ will continue to expand their operations and employ more women on their way to freedom."
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.