Definitions for at-risk & sexually exploited youth
At-risk youth: a youth whose chances at a successful transition to adult life are hindered by certain circumstances or factors experienced during their childhood. These factors include abuse/trauma, poverty, juvenile delinquency, dropping out of school, pregnancy, or mental health issues.
Sexually exploited youth: The Office of Juvenile Justice defines commercial child sexual exploitation as a range of crimes and activities involving the sexual abuse or exploitation of a child for the financial benefit of any person, or in exchange for anything of value (including monetary and non-monetary benefits) given or received by any person.
More youth than ever before are struggling with risk factors and mental health challenges. As such, community education and increased access to evidence-based, trauma-informed direct services are imperative responses to the needs of the next generation.
Check out these statistics from a 2020 study by At Risk Youth Programs:
Many myths exist regarding child trafficking and how it occurs.
Make sure you are learning from reliable experts such as Polaris.
Our Partners
We are one of many providers tackling prevention & direct service provision for at-risk & sexually exploited youth. Learn more about our partner organizations, along with other experts who provide guidelines and best practices for the field on a national level.
Our Modality
Our unique equine mentoring environment creates a safe space for our clients to process trauma and experience ample confidence boosting opportunities. Learn more about our evidence-based approach to "horsey healing".
Our Blog
Follow our blog to receive consistent updates on emerging facts and trends in the field, along with client testimonies and stories that show how our work is helping our youth heal, grow and thrive.
