This handbook is intended to help local programs build a broad base of support for young children and their families. The strategies described are designed to help early childhood practitioners develop relationships with the community that will establish long-term commitments to early childhood programs and build a foundation for additional support. The handbook is composed of five sections. After the introduction, research supporting programs for young children is summarized in the first part of the handbook. That section is followed by one on ways to build local support, including methods for cultivating support from school personnel, early childhood advisory councils, and key people in the community, such as senior citizens, church leaders, the police and fire chief, business and political leaders, and members of the medical professions. Suggested techniques include using focus groups for information sharing and developing a community-wide action plan. The fourth section discusses community advocacy strategies, such as establishing a Volunteers in Public Schools program, linking with real estate agencies, and developing a Promise the Children Action Card. Ideas for increasing parents' activity and conducting fund raising are provided. Lists of national resource organizations, publications, and early childhood organizations in Massachusetts are appended. Contains 14 references. (LB)