OJJDP Priorities
OJJDP's three priorities reflect the Office's guiding philosophy: to enhance the welfare of America’s youth and broaden their opportunities for a better future. To bring these goals to fruition, OJJDP is leading efforts to transform the juvenile justice system into one that will—
The juvenile justice field's decisionmaking must be informed by science and research to ensure young people are adjudicated fairly and given opportunities to learn and recover from youthful mistakes.
Community-based programs that involve families as a critical component enhance youth outcomes, increase public safety, and strengthen neighborhoods.
Juvenile justice practitioners must recognize and address the barriers to success that involvement with the juvenile justice system creates for youth.
The Latest from OJJDP
OJJDP Calls on States to Strengthen Youth Defense Systems
In Administrator Ryan's latest blog post, she writes about the U.S. Supreme Court and its landmark In re Gault ruling that affirms children's constitutional right to counsel. OJJDP stands behind the establishment of effective youth defense delivery systems. The Office supports training, technical assistance and demonstration grants to catalyze sustainable improvements to youth defense.
June is Internet Safety Month
OJJDP joins our partners in raising awareness about Internet safety and providing resources to keep youth safe from online exploitation and sextortion. The Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Program has released two new resources for victims of sextortion.
Awardees Honored at National Missing Children's Day Ceremony
The U.S. Department of Justice hosted a ceremony to commemorate the 40th annual National Missing Children's Day. View the awardees, the 2023 winning poster and a gallery of the winning state posters.
Now Available: When Your Child Is Missing: A Family Survival Guide
OJJDP has released the fifth edition of "When Your Child Is Missing: A Family Survival Guide." This resource aims to help families take necessary steps and contact the right people when their child is missing. The guide was written with contributions from parents of missing children.
Justice Department Issues Fines and Fees Dear Colleague Letter
A letter released from the Department of Justice describes how the unjust imposition and enforcement of fines and fees violate the civil rights of adults and youth accused of felonies, misdemeanors, quasi-criminal ordinance violations, and civil infractions.
OJJDP News @ a Glance, March/April 2023
The March/April newsletter highlights Second Chance Month, OJJDP support for youth transitioning from incarceration back to their communities, and remarks Administrator Liz Ryan delivered at an event commemorating the imprisonment 92 years ago of the "Scottsboro Boys."
Available Funding Opportunities
View current FY 2023 funding opportunities and related webinars.
Recent News
- OJJDP Calls on States to Strengthen Youth Defense Systems
- USDA Programs Help To Feed Children Facing Food Insecurity
- The Scottsboro Boys: Legacy of Injustice
- Second Chances, First Opportunities
- Celebrating Youth Achievements and Promise During Black History Month
- Real Justice Means Ensuring Opportunities for Justice System-Involved Youth
- Serving Justice-Involved Youth at Home, With Community Support
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Preventing Youth Hate Crimes & Identity-Based Bullying Initiative
Discover more about OJJDP's Preventing Youth Hate Crimes & Identity-Based Bullying Initiative. This national initiative focuses on prevention and early intervention from a youth-based perspective.