The mission of the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) focuses on preventing juvenile delinquency and improving the juvenile justice system. OJJDP accomplishes this by supporting states, local communities, and tribal jurisdictions in their efforts to develop and implement effective programs for juveniles. The agency emphasizes the importance of community-based programs and initiatives that aim to prevent delinquency, reduce the involvement of youth in the juvenile justice system, and enhance the well-being of children and families.
The grant program aims to provide mentoring services for youth involved in the juvenile justice system, including those in juvenile correctional facilities or those recently released. It focuses on reducing juvenile delinquency, truancy, drug abuse, victimization, and other high-risk behaviors. Through mentoring, it seeks to support at-risk youth in overcoming challenges and improving their life outcomes.