In line with HGR’s mission and population served, this guide has a focus on working with juvenile girls, and for the purpose of focusing specifically on interventions for sexually exploited girls ages 12-17. However, clearly sexual exploitation goes beyond this specific focus and includes children under the age of 12, boys, gender non- conforming and transgendered youth. Minor victims of sex trafficking eventually turn 18 and should still be recognized and treated as victims as well. For this reason, we have included a list of resources for serving other populations impacted by sexual exploitation and sex trafficking in the resource section.

This resource guide is meant to assist service providers, task forces, system professionals, and communities to better understand many of the key issues survivors face, as well as best practices in providing safe and trauma- informed support services and programs that will best meet youth needs.