Five models for respite care services for families of developmentally disabled persons were developed, including use of a sitter or in-home companion, week-end day care, and boarding and/or group homes. A needs survey of 11 counties in Alabama identified 300 eligible persons and included information on behavior patterns, diagnosis, range and severity of disability (large numbers manifested severe physical or behavioral problems), preferences for types of services (out-of-home care was favored), cost figures, and client satisfaction. Findings suggested that the population was at risk of institutionalization and that efforts to recruit qualified providers for respite care were largely successful, due to the existence of a pool of previously trained local talent. (CL)