This report examines the community organizational structures and the views of community and organizational leaders of the New York City area Dominican and Colombian populations. Community public policy needs are identified, and the degree to which these leaders feel needs are being met is explored. In the first stage of research, the organizations were identified. Then a "snowball" research strategy of followups was pursued to identify additional organizations. Focus group discussions among organization leaders then provided information on public policy issues. Of the 87 organizations identified, 51 focused on the Dominican community and 36 on the Colombian community. Five main types of organizations were identified (indigenous sociocultural, civic, trade, and umbrella organizations, and nonindigenous relevant organizations). The prevalence and importance of each group differed among Dominicans and Colombians. Some geographic differences were noted, but one of the most important distinctions is that Dominican organizations tend to be incorporated and to have nonprofit status, while Colombian organizations are less likely to have nonprofit status, and less able to attract external funding. In both communities, civic organizations were the most stable and best able to accomplish their goals. The inventory of the organizations of these two groups suggests that there is great potential and civic spirit in these organized efforts, but that most could benefit from additional funding and better communication with government and other private agencies. In both communities, leaders agreed that their constituents need to know about their legal rights and obligations, to learn English, and to understand the political and governmental system better. Additional public support could enhance the efforts of both communities. (Contains 6 tables and 113 references.) (SLD)