Mistakes made as a young adult can cause severe consequences in the future. According to Pediatrics journal, nearly one third of adult Americans have been arrested by the age of 23. These young adults carrying a juvenile record are faced with hardships when securing employment and housing in the future.

The U.S. Department of Labor recently acknowledged the necessity to employ a system that would positively reinforce good behavior by reintegrating juveniles detained by a criminal record with the “Face Forward” grant.

The “Face Forward” grant, enacted on April 17th, 2013, is a $26 million dollar grant that allows youth from ages 16-24 to find resources through nonprofit groups to expunge their juvenile record, as well as provide opportunities to explore employment opportunities through diversion programs.

The grant enforces the reintegration of young adults through the juvenile criminal record sealing. With over 80% of employers conducting criminal background checks as part of the employment process, it is vital for young adults to consider sealing their juvenile record to enhance their future.