The essays in this collection examine the outcomes or benefits of community colleges with respect to specific constituencies; discuss the impact of the policies, programs, and needs of external agencies on the colleges; and consider methods by which educational outcomes can be improved and measured within the institutional setting. After introductory material, Dorothy Linthicum describes the social and economic gains experienced by community college students. Next, Timothy Fidler examines the impact of community college programs on business and industry through the preparation of a trained labor force. James Gollattscheck then assesses the social and economic benefits of 2-year college education to the community and presents three case studies exemplifying ways in which impact studies can be conducted. After Paul Wing's description of emerging relationships between community colleges and state agencies and strategies for improving college impacts on these agencies, Joseph Cosand and Mary Jane Calais discuss the same issue focusing on impacts at the federal level. Alfons Van Wijk then considers the relationship of sound management and faculty and staff job satisfaction with institutional outcomes. Next, Richard Alfred presents a model for assessment that can be used to improve college programs and enhance funding prospects. Finally, Jack Friedlander reviews ERIC documents concerned with measuring the economic and educational benefits of community colleges. (HB)