This report details the initial steps taken to launch a new project at the Stone Center, Empowering Children for Life: The Robert S. and Grace W. Stone Primary Prevention Initiatives. An advisory group of researchers, clinicians, and youth workers were brought together to chart a course for this new project, which is dedicated to the prevention of psychological difficulties and the enhancement of psychological health and vitality among children and adolescents by focusing on building healthy relationships. First, a review of the literature, which documents the association between relationships with caring adults and better psychological health among children and adolescents, is presented. This review outlines what is already known about these important relationships and identifies recommendations made for further research. Second, the findings from a series of focus groups conducted with diverse groups of children and adolescents are detailed. These groups were conducted in an effort to incorporate the voices and experiences of young people directly into the early plannig for these initiatives.