In order to meet the educational needs of the hard-core unemployed, an instructional program known as the "Alternative Career Center" was designed at Iowa Lakes Community College to prepare those identified by the Comprehensive Employment and Training Act for employment. After reviewing the literature on educational programs for the hard-core unemployed and researching the client population's characteristics, five components for the center's development were identified: goals and objectives, client intake procedures, client assessment and career exploration, survival skills and career training, and further training and/or job placement. To insure that the center offered relevant training and development experiences, an advisory board comprised of representatives from various federal, state, and local agencies and an advisory committee made up of members of the private sector representing various career areas were formed. Procedures and guidelines for implementing the five program components are discussed in terms of such items as individual and group testing, career exploration systems, learning and work histories, staff development, human relations, and training areas available in the college's curriculum. Program implications and recommendations are reviewed. A bibliography and copies of various client/center forms are appended. (TR)