Among the key points when operating projects in racially and culturally diverse communities are: (1) Direct action should be targeted at minority ethnic groups; their needs and those of minority service providers must be met if prevention work is to be relevant and effective. (2) All activity must take into account the very real diversity in the general population. (3) Actual levels of drug use among minority groups must be researched. (4) Strategies to change attitudes and behavior must be targeted and culturally appropriate for their intended community. (5) The majority white population is also diverse and contains groups who may have particular cultural and linguistic needs. (6) Services and initiatives must be accessible. (7) Minority representatives should not only be asked for opinions on minority issues but should influence the development of the agenda. (8) An explicit Equal Opportunity Policy for staff and contracts is essential. (9) Cultural diversity includes not only language but religion, diet, identity, history, and family organization. (10) Ethnic Monitoring, a form of audit, can be used successfully with a review process built into its planning. References, selected bibliography