In an attempt to create more youth and adult partnerships to prevent violence throughout California, the California Attorney General's Office, the California Youth Authority, and the California Department of Health Services joined together on this community action research project. The members of the Attorney General's Youth Council on Violence Prevention developed a community survey tool, met with various leaders, and questioned youth about the best strategies to prevent violence. The Youth Council's recommendations became known as the "16 power plays" and are included in this report. The report also describes some challenges facing California youth today, including gangs, cultural diversity, teen dating relationship violence, and violence in the media. State initiatives designed to help reduce youth violence are detailed in the report. They pertain to balanced justice, public and community services, state coordination of youth resources, educating youth about Firearm Laws, and mentoring. Several Internet sources for youth violence prevention are listed. Information about the J.U.M.P. (Join Us Make Peace) City Youth Violence Prevention CD-ROM is included. (JDM)