42 U.S.C. § 12371 — Findings

(a) Findings. Congress found: (1) children and youth are our most valuable resource, and their welfare, protection, development, and role in society matter to the nation; (2) children and youth deserve love, respect, guidance, good health, shelter, food, education, productive work, and preparation to take part in community life; (3) children and youth increasingly need chances to participate in decisions that affect their own lives; (4) families are the main caregivers and source of social learning, and must be supported and strengthened, but when a family cannot meet a child's needs, society is responsible for stepping in; (5) at minimum, all children and youth need and deserve: (A) the best possible physical and mental health; (B) safe shelter; (C) top-quality education; (D) training, apprenticeships, community service chances, and productive jobs; (E) a wide range of activities that value young people and build self-esteem and community ties; (F) efficient, coordinated, and available community services; and (G) real participation in decisions about their own lives; and (6) the country needs a comprehensive national policy on young people, bringing together federal, state, and local government, youth organizations, and voluntary groups. (b) Statement of policy. Congress's policy is that the federal government should work with the states and their citizens to build recommendations and plans to meet the needs of young people.