This serial issue summarizes findings from a survey of 20 state mental retardation and developmental disabilities agencies and 93 community based providers on developing and financing community services. The survey queried respondents concerning: (1) which models or strategies for financing community services have been most effective; (2) what states' and providers' current and future community service priorities are; and (3) how particular actions or policies of federal, state, or local governments affect efforts to develop and finance community services. Stage agencies offered 10 recommendations of which the most important were funding flexibility, increased family support services, improved state government collaboration with local governments, and creative use of"traditional" models. Recommendations of community providers addressed the start-up of services and supports, the ongoing operation of services and supports, and missions and values of community organizations. Principles for developing and financing community services and supports were suggested by the surveys including improved collaboration between governmental agencies and private providers, the value of innovative examples, and a community employment system in transition. (26 references) (DB)