This well-known community organization text is a collection of in-depth discussions of the social, political, economic, and cultural problems facing different communities in the U.S.   The text is written from a community organizing and social change perspective, with each chapter focusing on a specific community.

Chapter authors, in addition to being recognized experts in their fields, are also members of the communities about which they write. This edition incorporates the new Curriculum Policy Statements of the CSWE regarding coverage of diversity, values and ethics, social and economic justice and oppression, populations-at-risk, and other areas. The chapter authors have followed a common format in applying relevant theories and methods of practice for community organizing to their specific communities, including coverage of child welfare, the Welfare Reform Act, AIDS, and other topics. Also, this new edition includes a discussion of the moral and ethical dilemmas inherent in organizing with communities of color.