In an effort to better understand the history, current status, and future direction of special programs for reentry students, a study was conducted of reentry programs at three California community colleges (i.e., San Jose City College, De Anza College, and Yuba College). The colleges were chosen to represent urban, suburban, and rural locales and different student populations (i.e., primarily middle-income white, ethnically diverse, and working-class white). Their reentry programs had been in operation since the early 1970's, and all had a reputation for success. Interviews were conducted with reentry program administrators and faculty affiliated with the programs. Study findings included the following: (1) all of the programs began in the late 1960's as women's centers or educational outreach programs for particular groups, such as low-income women, displaced homemakers, single mothers, or a combination of these; (2) one of the major changes witnessed by all programs was a shift from a feminist orientation as a women's center to a program accommodating both men and women; (3) all were headed by female program coordinators; (4) all were highly individualized, taking into account the characteristics and unique needs of the targeted groups; (5) the programs sustained themselves only through constant struggle on the part of program directors; and (6) feelings about the shift away from a feminist orientation ranged from resigned support to outright criticism. Detailed program descriptions, the interview schedule, a program evaluation checklist, and references are included. (GFW)