Beyond the Behavior: Building Trust, Safety, and Connection with Youth Who Have Experienced or Are at Risk of Human Trafficking 12.2.26

This interactive training will equip CASA volunteers and staff with practical strategies to build trust and engage youth who have experienced or are at risk of human trafficking. Through a trauma-informed, survivor-centered, and harm reduction approach, participants will explore ways to recognize exploitation, support safety, and remain a consistent, nonjudgmental presence. Realistic scenarios will provide opportunities to practice motivational interviewing, safety planning, and meaningful engagement while respecting youth voice and choice.

By the end of this training, participants will be able to:
– Recognize potential indicators of human trafficking and exploitation using a youth-centered identification tool.
– Explain how trauma and survival responses influence youth behavior, trust, and engagement.
– Apply practical strategies to build consistent, nonjudgmental relationships with youth over time.
– Demonstrate basic motivational interviewing skills to support meaningful conversations and youth choice.
– Identify harm reduction and safety planning strategies to support youth experiencing ongoing risks.
– Practice appropriate responses to real-world scenarios while maintaining professional boundaries and following reporting protocols.