Background information needed by anyone interested in addressing problems attending sexual assault at the community level is presented. This includes identification of some of the conditions that have hampered the development of appropriate services for rape victims. The prevalence and characteristics of rape, along with refutations of several prevalent misconceptions and stereotypes of rape circumstances, are also discussed. Current understanding about rape offenders and victims is summarized. The roles of specific agencies in the community network in addressing the rape problem are considered. Types of agencies examined are rape crisis centers, law enforcement agencies, the medical system (recommended procedures for a medical examination of rape victims are appended), the prosecuting agency, mental health agencies, and other community groups and support systems. An overview of the primary role of each agency in providing treatment or other services to rape victims is given. Factors that hinder the agency's effectiveness in dealing with rape victims and other caregivers are identified, and the special services that the agency can provide within the community network are described. The type of support that other sectors of the community can provide each agency is indicated. The concluding section presents a guide for planning and a checklist for determining what is already being done about rape in the community, what needs to be done, and who might become involved in the effort. Issues that should be considered when working in a rural community or with special populations are also considered. Extensive suggestions for further reading are designed for particular agencies and areas of interest. A subject index is provided. (Author summary modified)