The first chapter focuses on OVC’s leadership in developing and providing effective responses to crime victims worldwide. OVC gathers victim-related information from a variety of sources, synthesizes that information, and provides guidance and direction back to the field through policy development, program development, and public awareness efforts. Chapter 2 focuses on ways in which OVC works to improve access to comprehensive, quality services for crime victims. This is accomplished through State compensation and assistance and formal grant programs. State compensation programs pay for crime-related expenses such as medical care, mental health counseling, and lost wages. Assistance programs include services such as domestic violence shelters, children’s advocacy centers, and rape treatment programs. Chapter 3 discusses OVC’s professional development and training activities, such as the National Victim Assistance Academy, State victim assistance academies, and a symposium for those working the Federal system. Chapter 4 describes four evaluation efforts recently undertaken by OVC, including a national evaluation of state Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) compensation and assistance programs and an evaluation of services to families of victims during the Pan Am 103 trial. The ways in which OVC facilitates the exchange of up-to-date victim-related information are discussed in Chapter 5. The three major avenues are the OVC Training and Technical Assistance Center (TTAC), the OVC Resource Center (OVCRC), and the OVC web site. The final chapter recognizes the work of individuals and programs throughout the Nation that have made outstanding contributions to improving crime victims’ rights and services. 7 appendices