In 1982, Protection and Advocacy, Inc. (PAI) was awarded funds to provide advocacy services to Hispanic and Asian developmentally disabled persons residing in California. Initial target populations selected were the urban Korean, Vietnamese, and Hispanic communities of Los Angeles. The project's goals were (1) to provide training in self-advocacy skills; (2) to increase availability and accessibility of services; and (3) to insure attainment of services through advocacy for human, civil, service, and legal rights. The acculturation process of California's Asian and Hispanic groups is encumbered by language, family, and religion. But each subgroup has its own reasons for being reluctant or unable to discuss problems or seek assistance. Buddhist-influenced groups, for instance, feel enormous guilt over disabled family members. For many Hispanics, social services bear the stigma of "charity," and undocumented Hispanics must avoid any attention. PAI had to develop a methodology that addressed these characteristics--and one that educated culturally insensitive providers. To reach target groups, PAI undertook an extensive media campaign. It led training workshops for consumers and providers, translated a manual on California programs for the disabled, and produced information brochures in Spanish, Vietnamese, and Korean. Two types of advocacy were provided: short-term assistance and direct representation. The project has managed to narrow the California access "gap," but one of many continuing problems is the lack of knowledge displayed by many service providers regarding their responsibility to provide equal and accessible services to minority communities. After the termination of grant funds, PAI will be institutionalized. (KH)