This guide contains information from the alcoholism literature and from interviews with people in state alcoholism agencies, major professional associations, and public and private service programs. It is designed to help readers plan and develop community alcoholism programs by providing an overview of the many considerations involved in starting and operating a program and by identifying resources that offer more information. The first part of this report concerns planning the program and includes sections on: (1) an overview of alcoholism treatment; (2) foundations for success in planning; (3) needs assessment; (4) program design considerations; and (5) administrative and management issues. Administrative and management issues discussed include organizational structure, staffing and personnel management, recordkeeping and reporting, program evaluation, quality assurance facilities and location, funding and fund raising, and budgeting and cost accounting. The second part of this report discusses needs assessment, outreach, treatment considerations, and administrative issues for serving the special populations of the elderly, youth, the multidisabled, American Indians, Black Americans, Hispanic Americans, Asian/Pacific Americans, and women. The appendices contain lists of further readings, organizations and information resources, and state and territorial alcoholism program directors. (NB)