The report describes the distinctive characteristics and styles of seven community residences for retarded children or adults and provides a comparative analysis with emphasis on common themes of successful group homes. The homes are compared in terms of original initiation of the residence; the development of the residence; operations (such as philosophy, staff, and program); and costs and funding sources. Individual sections are organized into introduction, history and development, program, and observations for each of the following residences: Manchester Group Home (Connecticut), Lupine House (California), The Hearth (Pennsylvania), Cheyenne Village (Colorado), the Community Living Project (California), the Lori Knapp Home (Wisconsin), and the Hamilton Street Residence for Children (Nebraska). Homes were selected for visits on the basis of representing different models of care, resident population, sponsorship, geographical distribution, and "good" reputation. Common themes of the programs included close relationship between program philosophy and program realities, the key role of staff, an individualized approach to each person, the need for community programs and services, and a sense of community. (DB)