Epik Project Works In Five Key Areas…
PREVENTION
We encourage men and youth towards generative masculinity and to minimize the paths that leads to purchasing sex as well as educate the culture at large to recognize trafficking for what it is and prevent future trafficking.
DISRUPTION
We engage with sex buyers in their path to purchase commercial sex at the point of sale. With accountablility and empathy we converse with them about ways to end cycles of exploitation. Disruption also entails cultural and personal disruption as we encourage our volunteers to take examine their own ways of being.
LEARNING
Through our resource hub the New Locker Room and partnerships, we provide paper resources, videos , speeches, podcasts and curriculum on how to work to dismantle trafficking in your community and at large.
ADVOCACY
We support survivor groups and other influential organizations fiscally and with their programmatic efforts. Via legal and governmental committees we also advocate for safe policy and legislation.
INNOVATION
We have technical expertise in various cyber formats and technical platforms and we consistently create tools to augment our staff and volunteer work. We seek to bring innovation to this area and share our research and development to build systems to disrupt trafficking.
WE ARE DISMANTLING THE FORCES THAT PERPETUATE EXPLOITATION
Prevention
MY FRIENDS ARE NOT FOR SALE
A comprehensive prevention approach for youth, My Friends Are Not For Sale, equips high school-aged kids to stand up for each other, look out for the red flags of exploitation, and to prevent human trafficking! We also have a great line of apparel for you to rep!
DEMAND REDUCTION
CYBER PATROLS
We have teams of hundreds of men across the country who meet regularly to disrupt the demand for commercial sexual exploitation at the point of purchase. By joining this growing community of men, volunteers also have the opportunity to learn how to leverage their unique influence in order to change the masculine culture for the better. By drawing on the best thinkers and leaders from across the anti-trafficking movement, Epik volunteers have the chance not only to learn about the issue but also to be equipped to change the culture that perpetuates sex trafficking; starting with their own communities.
advocacy
HARD ROAD CHALLENGE
A physical challenge fundraiser, The Hard Road Challenge is our way of showing respect and solidarity with the survivor community. Epik Project would not be what it is without the grace, inspiration, correction, and encouragement of the women who’ve spent years enduring the horrors of sex trafficking and sexual exploitation. The trauma inflicted upon them was unimaginable and the road to recovery and flourishing has been long and difficult. Many have made it. Many are still on that road. At Epik, we feel compelled to show our respect for that difficult journey in a creative way. We call it The Hard Road Challenge.
Innovation
TECHNOLOGY
Human trafficking happens online and the internet has even been referred to as the “brothel of the 21st century”. With the expansion of AI, the dark web, and anonymity, traffickers and buyers have taken no time to leverage these tools for exploitation. We are doing the same. Using innovation and technology, Epik Project is pioneering technology to combat exploitation.
Learning
THE NEW LOCKER ROOM
Our new Resource Hub, the New Locker Room, is a place for men to connect and deepen their understanding of issues like loneliness, belonging, modern masculinity, and more. The New Locker Room will house our blog, upcoming podcast, and book and will provide a place where thoughtful discussions and community building can take place. As men, we are all learning together and The New Locker Room will be a secure and productive place for us all to grow.
Next steps
JOIN US IN THE NEW LOCKER ROOM RESOURCE HUB!
