The history, successes, and future of public community colleges in Canada are examined in this paper. After explaining the conditions that precipitated the conception, birth, and rapid growth to maturity of Canadian community colleges between 1965 and 1975, the paper describes their essential characteristics, e.g., a comprehensive curriculum, commitment to quality teaching and counseling, open admissions policy, minimal tuition, nontraditional course scheduling, and community responsiveness. Next, the paper outlines the development of the community colleges in Alberta, British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec, and Saskatchewan, in terms of their relationship to universities, autonomy, educational opportunities, and influences from the community. Drawing upon existing research, the paper then considers the degree to which the community colleges have succeeded in their mission. Enrollment trends, university transfer success, and a recent study of students enrolled in university transfer programs in British Columbia who did not actually transfer are highlighted. Next, problems facing community colleges in the 1980's are defined as establishing their identity, maintaining control over finances through college boards and commissions, and being responsive to changing public interests. Finally, the paper stresses that Canadian community colleges should develop national standards and a national consciousness. (DAB)