The last chance to prevent problems such as adolescent pregnancies, school dropouts, and substance abuse is in the ages from 10 to 15. More than 12 recent policy reports agree on the need for action in five areas: (1) reducing poverty, (2) making supports available to families with young adolescents, (3) improving schooling in the middle grades, (4) increasing the active promotion of adolescents' physical and mental health, and (5) increasing opportunities for young adolescents to connect with others and to have an impact on their communities. Needed programs include parent centers, parent buddy systems, home visiting aides, help with parents' continuing education, more school guidance counselors, efforts to attract and reward excellent teachers, better health screening and referrals, and community service experiences for youth. These efforts should take place over the long term, recognizing that the benefits will take place many years later.