April 19-25 is National Crime Victims’ Rights Week. During this time, we would like to share with you just some of what Beau did to stand up and speak out for victims — and drives our mission to protect children and confront abuse. Here a dear friend of the Foundation and Survivor, Jaclyn Ott, shares how Beau Biden stood up for — and inspired — her:

I am a survivor of child sexual abuse.  My journey to overcome the abuse has not been easy, but it has been worth it. I was and still am very blessed with loving & supporting family, friends & community.

Beau Biden was one of those supporters. I met Beau shortly after the news of my abuse was public. He was at my high school in Sussex county giving a speech about bullying. I had no idea that Beau knew of me or wanted to meet me. I am glad he did because my interaction that day with him gave me hope.

He explained that what I had been through was cruel, awful, and that I was to not blame myself for what has happened nor did I deserve any of the abuse.

He complimented my strength and courage and told me I would be okay, but in order to be okay, I would have to work on healing and make the right decisions moving forward, so I could live a positive & healthy life.

He then told me while I was doing that for myself, he would be out in the world fighting for the protection of children. I promised him I would do the work for myself in order to heal and that I was glad to know there was a good man in this world wanting and willing to fight for children being abused.

Beau’s passion for fighting child sexual abuse is what encouraged me to make the right decisions and be a survivor. We had a few more interactions after the first time we met and I’m happy to report we were both keeping our word and making positive changes.

Now, The Beau Biden Foundation is honoring Beau’s legacy.

The Foundation is very near and dear to my heart. I personally know the importance of what this foundation is doing and couldn’t be happier to see it grow. The foundation is led by a powerful team who speak for victims & survivors who cannot use their voices to protect themselves. They are also doing the hard work of educating adults and trusted professionals so they too can protect children from abuse.