This exploratory study seeks to analyze and compare the practice of community work in The Netherlands and Israel, and the key variables shaping its character, role, and influence. The two countries are small, highly urbanized welfare democracies relying on central government financing of community and social work, and are characterized by historical, pervasive social clevages based on religion, and, in Israel, on cultural grounds as well. Community work in each country serves different functions, and has a distinctive character largely reflecting its sociopolitical context and organizational sponsors. (Author/DB)