Moving in the Right Direction

Standing in a juvenile court and being charged with grand larceny, Aeryn Van Eck’s life was in disarray. Growing up with a dysfunctional family and little guidance or support, Aeryn became a runaway teen, dropping out of school and getting into trouble with the law.

“Lost, naïve, and in search for comfort and friendships in the wrong places—this was me,” she said. “I was living a struggle every day. School was no longer a priority, let alone a part of my life. My future was dimming day by day.”

But it was her encounter with a juvenile court judge that would change the trajectory of her life for the better as she was placed in a Boys Town family home in Nevada. Her new surroundings brought limits and responsibilities—teaching Aeryn decision-making skills that empowered her to get her life back on track.

Everything was new. I had rules. I was in a new environment. I had peers going through just as stressful a situation as me. I began learning. Learning what respect was, accountability, responsibility, and what it’s like to be able to say “I look forward to the future.” I was able to feel security and stability. My bad habits quickly died while my self-confidence and respect soared. The relationship with my family began to mend. I’ve become a better person.

Today, Aeryn is a college student at Nevada State College—making her first steps toward transitioning into her new life as an independent adult.

Stories like these are the reason why the House passed the Supporting Youth Opportunity and Preventing Delinquency Act (H.R. 5963). Introduced by Rep. Carlos Curbelo (R-FL) and Ranking Member Bobby Scott (R-VA), the bipartisan bill will improve the juvenile justice system to ensure more young Americans have the same opportunities Aeryn did—changing their lives for the better.

The legislation supports prevention services and empowers state and local leaders to focus on and implement evidence-based strategies. H.R. 5963 also makes improvements to accountability and oversight—delivering positive outcomes for kids while protecting taxpayers.

By enhancing opportunity for vulnerable children, and giving young people like Aeryn the second chance they need to turn their lives around, this bipartisan proposal is one more solution to offer Americans A Better Way. As we recognize National Youth Justice Awareness Month, committee members will continue efforts to provide real solutions that ensure more Americans are given opportunities to succeed.

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