The funds will support the Prevention of Adolescent Risks Initiative’s efforts to enhance the state response to trafficking through development and implementation of a Regional Navigator Network.
The University of Maryland School of Social Work's Prevention of Adolescent Risks Initiative (PARI) team has been awarded a $50,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for its innovative project, "Maryland's Human Trafficking Regional Navigator Network: An Innovative Prevention and Intervention Program."
The project aims to:
1. Strengthen prevention strategies against human trafficking
2. Improve intervention services for survivors
3. Coordinate efforts across multiple jurisdictions in Maryland
The Regional Navigator Network represents a cutting-edge approach to addressing human trafficking, combining evidence-based practices with a coordinated, statewide response. This initiative aligns with Maryland's commitment to combating human trafficking and supporting survivors.
By leveraging this funding, the PARI team will be able to:
- Expand training and resources for Regional Navigators
- Enhance collaboration between law enforcement, social services, and community organizations
- Develop innovative tools and protocols for identifying and assisting trafficking survivors
- Conduct research to evaluate the program's effectiveness and inform future interventions
This grant underscores the importance of PARI's work and recognizes the University of Maryland School of Social Work as a leader in developing solutions to combat human trafficking. The project is expected to have a significant impact on Maryland's ability to prevent trafficking and provide comprehensive support to survivors.