An overview of the diverse programs of research, scholarship, and creative activities conducted at Indiana University, the articles in this issue of "Research & Creative Activity" describe numerous interventions that can make a positive difference in the lives of at-risk youth. The articles are as follows: "Giving Back What You Get" (Susan Moke) describes an intervention program of empowering strategies for responding to incidents of aggression, insult, or ridicule; "Building Communication through Sharing Books" (Susan G. Tomlinson) discusses the Parents Sharing Books project; "Who Takes the Rap?" (Miriam Fitting) discusses rap music and youth intervention; "Singing the Self-Esteem Blues" (Julie Thompson) discusses multidisciplinary approaches to youth intervention;"SMARTTalking" (Todd Avery) focuses on interactive multimedia computer program to foster conflict-resolution skills among adolescents; "Restoring Community to Restore Justice" (Michelle Branigan) describes a juvenile crime prevention program; "Break Away to Prevention" (Michelle Branigan) describes an alternative to traditional juvenile court probationary programs; "The FAST Track to College" (Lucianne Englert) discusses a program to provide at-risk youth with basic educational skills and positive attitudes about college; "A Legacy of Help for Young Athletes" (Mary Hrovat) features opportunities for at-risk youth to participate in sports and receive life-skills training; "Destination: Education IUK" (Todd Avery) describes an early intervention scholarship program at Indiana University Kokomo (IUK); "The Demonstration of Caring" (Lucianne Englert) discusses the health needs of minority adolescents who are at risk; and "Avoiding Purple Leisure (Mary Hrovat) discuses the role of leisure activities play in the lives of potential offenders who are mentally retarded. (RS)