Created by the NJJN Executive Committee to honor one of NJJN’s founders and a true leader in the juvenile justice reform movement, this award is designed to both acknowledge other leaders in the field and to create a communications platform for justice reform work. Each year we will honor an individual advocate for youth justice who embodies the tenacity, vision, fearlessness and wisdom of Beth Arnovits.

Elizabeth (Beth) J. Arnovits (1950-2011), Executive Director of the Michigan Council on Crime and Delinquency for 36 years and one of the founders of NJJN, spent most of her life working to reform the justice system for both youth and adults. Beth’s heart for second chances made a huge difference in the lives of youth, and her adventurous approach to life inspired those who worked beside her. Before she died, she received recognition as a Greater Lansing Woman of the Year 2011 Finalist. NJJN is honored to announce this award in remembrance of Beth, who was nothing if not gutsy.

Award Recipients

2012 - Kim McGill of the Youth Justice Coalition (CA).

Kim McGill on Winning the Gutsy Youth Advocate for Youth Award »  

More information about the Beth Arnovits Gutsy Advocate for Youth Award »

 Photo: Michelle Weemhoff