Participants determined that effective programs are based on research on early adolescent development as well as an assessment of community needs and existing services, emphasize social relationships, encourage parent involvement, are developed for and by youth, are fun and flexible, are culturally relevant, and are linked to activities that involve adolescent interests. Programs should also provide food, have clear rules for membership, be safe and accessible to all youth, provide linkages to schools, and offer a wide array of services. To promote these programs, the Federal Government should support the planning and coordinating of community-based youth development programs, stimulate partnerships among State and local agencies and among local programs, reduce financial barriers to program development, support multiple-year funding, require active youth involvement in program development and implementation, work toward attracting private funds, and contribute to operating costs. Appended descriptions of programs sponsored by Federal agencies, list and descriptions of resource organizations, and list of meeting participants