TRACE : Protect, Learn, Empower

TRACE PLE -- a digital emergency response and training network designed for women who have survived tech-enabled abuse, including doxxing, stalking, spyware, account takeovers, and revenge porn. Our mission is to empower these women to reclaim their digital identities, providing them with the necessary tools, support, and training to fight back.

The need for TRACE is clear and urgent, given the significant prevalence of stalking and harassment that women face in today’s digital landscape. Here's a comprehensive overview of the statistics that underscore the necessity of establishing.

The Need for TRACE: Key Statistics and Insights

1. Prevalence of Stalking:

   • 1 in 6 women (approximately 16%) in the U.S. have experienced stalking at some point in their lifetime, according to the National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey (NISVS).

   • Of those who experience stalking, 60% are stalked by someone they know, highlighting the role of familiar relationships in such harassment.

2. Impact of Online Harassment:

   • 64% of women have faced some form of online harassment, with 71% reporting experiences of harassment on social media platforms, as found in research by the Pew Research Center.

   • Women of color, LGBTQ+ women, and younger women are disproportionately affected, often facing more severe and targeted harassment.

3. Safety Concerns:

   • Nearly 50% of women who have experienced stalking feel unsafe as a result, and 30% felt fearful for their lives.

   • 90% of stalking victims reported suffering from severe emotional distress, leading to anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

4. Cyberstalking:

   • Cyberstalking is on the rise, with 1 in 10 internet users reporting that they have been stalked online. This form of harassment often includes persistent threats and surveillance through digital means.

   • A significant concern is that nearly 75% of online harassment victims have not reported their experiences due to feelings of shame, fear of retaliation, or a belief that no action will be taken.

5. Psychological and Professional Impacts:

   • Victims of stalking and online harassment are 16 times more likely to experience suicidal thoughts than non-victims, indicating severe mental health implications.

   • The workplace impact includes decreased productivity and increased absenteeism, with 40% of women saying their ability to do their job has been affected by stalking or harassment.

6. Lack of Awareness and Resources:

   • Many women are unaware of the resources available to them; a reported 70% of victims do not know where to find help, demonstrating the urgent need for specialized support and education.

Conclusion: The Case for TRACE

These statistics highlight the critical need for TRACE to provide education, resources, and support for women facing digital abuse. By focusing on empowerment through knowledge, TRACE aims to equip women with the tools they need to navigate online spaces safely and confidently.
 

TRACE  will offer a range of comprehensive resources aimed at empowering women to combat digital abuse, stalking, and harassment. Here’s a brief summary of the key resources TRACE will provide over the next 5 years:

1. Educational Workshops

• Digital Safety & Awareness: Interactive sessions focused on recognizing and responding to digital threats, including stalking and harassment.

• Self-Defense Training: Strategies for physical and emotional self-defense, specifically tailored for situations involving digital abuse.

2. Online Curriculum (REDACT)

• Webinars and Video Resource Hub: A comprehensive online platform featuring educational modules covering topics like safe online practices, privacy settings, emotional resilience, and legal rights.

• Tutorials: Regularly updated content that offers diverse strategies and tips for navigating digital spaces safely.

3. Community Support Networks

• Peer Support Groups: Facilitated groups that allow women to share their experiences, challenges, and coping strategies in a safe environment.

• Mentorship Programs: Connecting survivors with mentors who have successfully navigated similar experiences for guidance and support.

4. Legal and Financial Resources

• Legal Workshops: Information on legal rights and protections related to digital abuse, including restraining orders and reporting processes.

• Financial Guidance: Resources for budgeting or accessing emergency funds for women escaping abusive situations.

5. Advocacy and Awareness Campaigns

• Public Awareness Campaigns: Initiatives aimed at educating the broader community about digital abuse, its impacts, and how to support survivors.

• Partnerships with Local Organizations: Collaborating with other nonprofits, schools, and community groups to expand outreach and support.

6. Digital Tools and Resources

• Safety Apps and Software Recommendations: Guidance on tools that enhance personal security, such as privacy-focused applications and reporting mechanisms.

• Resource Guides: Downloadable materials that summarize key points from workshops and provide actionable steps for women facing digital abuse.

By providing these resources, TRACE aims to create a supportive environment where women can learn, connect, and empower themselves against digital abuse, fostering resilience and safety in their lives.

_{Funding Prioritization Outline for TRACE}

_{1. Program Development and Implementation (35%)}

• _{a. Educational Workshops}

  • _{Curriculum development costs (materials, trainers, venues)}

  • _{Ongoing training and certifications for facilitators}

• _{b. Online Curriculum (REDACT)}

  • _{Development of online modules and resources}

  • _{Initial website development costs, including user interface and design}

• _{c. Peer Support Networks}

  • _{Training for facilitators of support groups}

  • _{Development of mentorship programs}

_{2. Website Development and Maintenance (15%)}

• _{a. Website Design and Development}

  • _{Costs associated with creating a user-friendly and accessible website}

    • _{Domain registration and hosting fees}

    • _{Initial design and development (graphic design, programming)}

• _{b. Ongoing Maintenance}

  • _{Regular updates to content and resources}

  • _{Technical support and troubleshooting}

  • _{Security measures (SSL certificates, backup services)}

_{3. Community Outreach and Engagement (25%)}

• _{a. Marketing and Awareness Campaigns}

  • _{Digital marketing efforts (social media, online ads)}

  • _{Community promotions (flyers, events, workshops in public places)}

• _{b. Partnerships and Collaborations}

  • _{Funding for partnerships with local organizations and businesses}

  • _{Participation in community events (booths, sponsorships, outreach)}

_{4. Staffing and Administration (20%)}

• _{a. Personnel Costs}

  • _{Salaries for key staff members (executive director, program coordinators)}

  • _{Payment for contractors (training facilitators, community outreach staff)}

• _{b. Administrative Expenses}

  • _{Office supplies, technology (computers, software)}

  • _{Insurance and operational costs (utilities, office rent)}

_{5. Evaluation and Impact Assessment (5%)}

• _{a. Data Collection Tools}

  • _{Survey development and distribution costs}

  • _{Software subscriptions for data analysis (e.g., survey platforms, analytics tools)}

• _{b. Reporting and Evaluation Services}

  • _{Hiring external evaluators or consultants for unbiased assessments}

  • _{Costs associated with evaluating program effectiveness and outcomes}

_{6. Contingency Fund (5%)}

• _{a. Unforeseen Expenses}

  • _{Reserve funds to manage unexpected costs or emergencies}

  • _{Flexibility for addressing immediate needs that may arise during implementation}

_{Total Funding Allocation}

• _{Website Development and Maintenance: 15%}

• _{Staffing and Administration: 20%}

• _{Program Development and Implementation: 35%}

• _{Community Outreach and Engagement: 25%}

• _{Evaluation and Impact Assessment: 5%}

• _{Contingency Fund: 5%}

Why TRACE Matters:

As the founder of TRACE, I've witnessed the devastating impact of tech-enabled abuse on women's lives.  We aim to change that narrative through education and community support.

Campaign Goals:
With $30,000 we plan to:

• Begin the Launch of TRACE: Protect, Learn, Empower Project
• Launch a community awareness campaign to reach 1,000 individuals.

• Establish support networks that foster resilience and connection.

   

Your Impact:
Every contribution counts and directly impacts the women we serve. Here’s how your support could help:

• $25: Could supports educational materials for workshops.
• $100: Could support peer support group for women.
• $500: Could funds the creation of a comprehensive digital safety resource that can reach hundreds.
• $1,000: Could supports community awareness events, helping us reach local media and spread the message.

Join Us:
Help us empower women against tech-enabled abuse! Your support can transform lives and create a safer digital world. Donate now and share our campaign with your friends and family!