This paper briefly describes a project designed to provide for assessment, materials, and instruction for adult rural Oregon students reading at less than a fifth grade level. An overview is provided of the resulting curriculum guide, "C.A.R.E.-Challenging Adults to Read Effectively," which was intended for teachers, tutors, or paraprofessionals involved in developing an adult basic reading course, and the steps essential to the creation of an individualized program. The steps include: (1) creating a committee to determine the program's philosophy, goals, and instructional methods; (2) analyzing student needs; (3) developing a program to meet those needs; (4) keeping records of student progress; and (5) offering alternative methods of presenting information. Besides suggesting testing instruments, effective reading series, and additional reference materials, the "C.A.R.E." manual provides an easy-to-use format through frequent use of charts and other visual aids. A comprehensive description of methods of assessment, placement and instruction, the "C.A.R.E." manual can be an aid to any instructor attempting to achieve specific goals with basic readers. (Sample program materials are appended.) (MM)