Prior to meeting “Violet”, Jessica, Founder and Executive Director of Purchased, actually met “Margaret”, Violet’s mom, first through Thrive. Thrive is a 10-session curriculum that covers a variety of topics centering on the themes of understanding human trafficking and trauma, relationship, and safety in a confidential and non-judgmental group setting with other parents and guardians.

During Thrive, Jessica could tell that, despite Margaret’s quiet demeanor, she was taking it all in. She attended every session and even shared with Jessica that although she was quiet, she was learning a lot.

Jessica first met Violet during an information meeting for an upcoming Job Training Program (JTP). The purpose of the ALLIES JTP is to help prepare survivors in the Allies Mentorship Program to enter into the workforce through a supportive and trauma-informed environment. Violet, like her mom, was also quiet, but when she spoke, her words were poignant and mature.

As previously shared, Violet attended each JTP class. Each week, Violet would open up more and more. The curriculum provides an emphasis on leadership. When Violet would be assigned to a leadership role, she was nervous. Jessica and others would affirm what she did well in practicing her leadership and decision-making skills.

As classes progressed, Violet began to lean into the leadership roles and shine through each time. You could see her confidence building. She excelled on every assignment. She would get excited about working on the take-aways from each class and building her resume.

Upon graduating the class, Violet shared how she felt good about herself for completing the training. She felt supported by each person involved in the program. She also shared during the celebration that she was amongst a room full of people who genuinely wanted to see her succeed.

Jessica enjoyed the time she got to spend with Violet transporting her to and from class. It was on those days that she got to know her more on a personal level. It was nice for Jessica to learn of her hopes and dreams for the future.

Jessica shared, “It’s been fun to follow Violet’s progress.” Jessica is excited that Violet will be on the Junior Leadership Board to provide input towards the future of Purchased.

Stay tuned next week as Violet’s mentor shares about how her relationship with Violet has grown over the last couple of years.