Applying

Applying new and existing research to develop and deliver innovative solutions that are actionable, relevant to the problem and produce effective, verifiable results through professional education, training and certification programs.

Applying Evidence to Improve Practice

We believe there is a compelling need for innovation and professionalization in the anti-trafficking industry. Though there is a growing number of coalitions and networks of organizations fighting human trafficking, there has been little growth or change regarding prevention tactics and intervention methods. Many organizations struggle to find professional development and certification opportunities for their staff.

Within the academic and NGO communities, the knowledge exists to begin to:

  • Professionalize the workforce
  • Update processes and programs to incorporate the latest research and evidence
  • Develop standardized strategies that honor the agency of survivors and those at risk of exploitation
  • Develop professional standards for measuring the effectiveness of programs
  • Develop professional standards for evaluation of organizations, programs, and employees

We partner with academic scholars, organizational leaders, professional practitioners, and granting organizations to utilize research to:

  • Improve practice
  • Increase access to professional education and training programs
  • Develop certifications and best practice standards to guide the anti-trafficking movement into a more effective future

We apply research to improve the effectiveness of the movement by:

Influencing

  • Use evidence-based ideation and innovation to influence the evolution of existing programs and increase their effectiveness
  • Use the existing evidence base to initiate and influence discussions on anti-trafficking policy
  • Facilitate conversations within the anti-trafficking industry focused on the adoption of evidence-based prevention methods and tactics

Guiding

Consult with donors and granting organizations to increase awareness of evidence-based best practice

Evaluating

  • Develop multi-fasceted measures to assess community vulnerability 
  • Develop measures to assess individual and family vulnerability within communities
  • Develop training on continual evaluation and iterative development of programs for organizations and donors

Certifying

  • Use measurement and evaluation standards to develop ethical anti-trafficking certification programs and certification boards
  • Develop professional certification programs for specific roles in the anti-trafficking field

Our goal for the application of our research and innovation activities is to facilitate the development of evidence-based applications and lead a movement focused on increasing professionalism in the anti-trafficking movement.

Good intentions and a desire to help are only the precursors to evidence-based programs and professionally-trained staff.

Human trafficking has devastating effects on the lives of real people. They deserve a strategic, professional approach from the anti-trafficking movement, no matter where they live or which organization provides assistance.

Every person at risk and survivor and deserves nothing less than our very best: a kind, evidence-based response delivered by skilled, empathetic professionals.