Position Purpose: This position is a Peer Mentor for youth who are victims and survivors of human trafficking, specifically commercial sexual exploitation of children (CSEC) at a community home. The organization Present Help in the Time of Trouble Refuge, Inc., a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization dedicated to creating a nurturing and safe environment for women, children, and individuals facing various challenges, has contracted with the City of Philadelphia to provide these community home placement and supportive services for CSEC youth for the City. 

In this vital role, the individual is a professional who lived or had experiences with CSEC and uses their training and experience to support youth while they are living in CSEC community home. The individual contributes to a peer support capacity to facilitate transition from human trafficking and help identify the services and support needed for permanency. The individual serves as a role model for successful interaction skills and model coping techniques and self-help strategies. 

Description of Duties: Specific duties and responsibilities assigned to this position include but are not limited to:

 Building relationships - Provide weekly individual meetings with youth to establish positive, personal relationships with their mentees.

Emotional Support - Provide a space for survivors to share their experience and feelings, listening empathetically and validating their emotions. 

Education and Awareness - Share knowledge about human trafficking, its signs, and the resources available for those affected.  Include information on legal rights, health services, and support networks as applicable.

Advocacy - Acting as an advocate for the needs and rights of survivors helping them to voice their concerns and navigate systems that may be difficult to engage with. 

Confidentiality and Trust - Maintain confidentiality and build trust with survivors, ensuring they feel safe, and respected.

Creating Connections - Build a network of support by connecting survivors with other mentors, peer support groups, and community resources.

Feedback and Reporting - Provide feedback to the organization about the needs and concerns of survivors and participate in the program evaluation process to improve services.

Training and Development - Participate in ongoing training to stay informed about best practices and trauma-informed care, human trafficking dynamics, and available resources. 

Support reintegration - Help survivors reintegrate into society after being trafficked.