Redefined’s Employment & Empowerment Program

The role of work in the healing process for survivors of human trafficking is crucial, as employment not only provides financial independence but also offers structure, purpose, and a path to recovery from the psychological and emotional toll of trafficking. The process of re-entering the workforce is often a key step in survivors' long-term healing and reintegration into society.

A study by the Polaris Project reported that 50% of survivors have difficulty finding sustainable employment after exiting trafficking. 

Survivors may face barriers such as lack of education, lack of job experience, and psychological scars from their experiences. Employment gaps and skills deficits are also major obstacles to employment. 

The Redefined work program at Hope Center Indy empowers survivors with access to holistic restoration. It provides survivors with a trauma-informed, safe, and sober work environment. Survivors who receive trauma-informed care combined with employment or vocational programs often show improved self-esteem and emotional stability. The flexibility offered by Redefined enables survivors to access therapy and care, which is vital for lasting healing. 

According to the U.S. Department of Justice, 65% of survivors reported feeling more empowered after receiving both mental health services and job placement assistance.  

The Redefined work program offers purposeful work and skills training in various business industries, including retail, food service, animal care, gardening, event management, and more. It also provides necessary communication skills, teamwork, time management, and the ability to handle challenging situations with a positive attitude. Work is part of holistic restoration. Alongside professional development, Redefined nurtures spiritual and personal growth, helping survivors rebuild their identity in Christ.  

Rachel Kleine, Hope Center Indy’s director of business development, reports, “In the last year, we have seen a 108% increase in the residential hours that are being paid here at Redefined."

"We want you to think of Redefined not just as your local boutique and coffee shop, but we want you to understand the love and care that’s going into the employment and vocational services that we are offering here to our residents. To see us not just as a workplace but as a work program where we’re offering employment to our residents,” said Rachel. 

Reflecting on her time as a Redefined employee, one of Hope Center’s program graduates said,

“It’s special working there because at the end of the day, you know you’re loved, valued, and appreciated”. 

Do you want to get involved? Visit our businesses, pray, or volunteer. If you are a business leader, you can offer long-term job opportunities to survivors.

To learn more, campus tours are offered on Saturdays at 10:30 a.m.