In recent years, awareness of human trafficking and its devastating effects on survivors has grown significantly. Organizations like Reclaiming Hope have emerged to address the critical need for aftercare services, offering support and resources to those who have escaped the clutches of trafficking.

Dr. Carrie Yeager, Technology, Integration, and Support Manager at the Lyda Hill Institute for Human Resilience at UCCS, recently provided training to mentors involved in Reclaiming Hope's Mentor Program. This training, focused on trauma-informed mentorship, underscores the importance of understanding and addressing the complex needs of survivors.

At the heart of trauma-informed mentorship lies the concept of building trusting and supportive relationships. Mentors serve as beacons of hope, offering survivors a safe space to share their needs, dreams, and goals. Through these relationships, survivors begin the journey of healing, reclaiming their lives, and envisioning a future filled with possibilities.

The Mentor Program not only provides emotional support but also offers practical assistance in navigating the challenges of reintegration into society. Mentors help survivors access essential resources, empowering them to rebuild their lives on their terms. This holistic approach acknowledges the multifaceted nature of recovery and the diverse needs of survivors.

Central to Dr. Yeager's training is the emphasis on trauma basics, including an understanding of complex trauma, which is prevalent among trafficking survivors. By equipping mentors with knowledge and effective tools, the training ensures that they are well-prepared to support survivors on their healing journey. These tools enable mentors to foster resilience, promote self-empowerment, and facilitate meaningful progress toward recovery.

In a world where human trafficking continues to be a pervasive issue, the Mentor Program stands as a beacon of hope, offering survivors a lifeline amidst their darkest days. Through trauma-informed mentorship, individuals are not only supported but empowered to reclaim their agency, rewrite their narratives, and embrace a future defined by resilience and strength.