The BJA assists many State and local criminal justice agencies by supporting them with funds, training, technical assistance, evaluation, and comprehensive strategic planning. The mission of the BJA is to provide leadership and assistance in support of local criminal justice strategies to achieve strong neighborhoods and safe communities. In fiscal year 1996, the BJA focused on Byrne formula and discretionary grants, special programs, and local law enforcement block grants to attain the following goals: promote effective and innovative crime control and prevention strategies; demonstrate the replication of effective crime control programs that support public-private partnerships, planning, and criminal justice system improvement; leverage and efficiently administer available resources; and provide a dynamic work environment that fosters and encourages excellence, innovation, and responsiveness. Specific crime prevention initiatives and programs sponsored by the BJA are described. An appendix contains data on fiscal year 1996 Byrne formula and discretionary grant program awards by State and information on BJA legislative purpose areas. 6 tables