Girls Educational & Mentoring Services (GEMS) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to empower young women, ages 12-21 years, who have experienced sexual exploitation and violence to exit unsafe and abusive lifestyles and to develop their full potential. GEMS’ provides young women with empathetic, consistent support and viable opportunities for positive change.

Prevention:
Through early educational awareness and on-going supportive services GEMS serves young women at-risk for future sexual exploitation and violence. GEMS prevention programs are designed to foster resiliency and strength and encourage young women to reach their full potential free from exploitation.

Intervention:
GEMS focus its primary outreach efforts towards young women in the criminal justice system, foster care system and on the streets. These young women need practical, viable options as an alternative to prostitution and consistent, caring relationships to assist them in achieving their goals. Therefore, GEMS provides holistic case management, long-term mentoring and other specialized supportive services.

Advocacy:
GEMS believe that raising awareness, and creating and enforcing relevant legislation is essential in the fight against sexual exploitation. GEMS is a co-founder of the New York City Task Force Against Sexual Exploitation and have been involved in many national and international efforts to effect change. As an advocate, GEMS speaks out on behalf of those whose voices have long been silent.