Self-help among low-income people is vitally important. In no area is self-help more important than in overcoming poverty's burdens and energizing the escape from poverty. This document comprises an inventory of self-help and mutual-help programs that feature active involvement of members of the low-income population. The programs in this inventory reflect a variety of program foci, sizes, budgets, locations, ages of participants, and operational methods. They represent only a fraction of the diverse programs operating in every part of this country. The following aspects of grassroots self-help programs are discussed: (1) how low-income people become involved; (2) how grassroots initiatives are funded; (3) employment initiatives; (4) neighborhood and community development; (5) housing development; (6) promotion of responsible behavior; (7) education programs; and (8) family programs. Profiles of 385 selected self-help programs are provided, arranged by state. For each program the following information is provided: (1) name, address, telephone number, and director; (2) population involved; (3) purpose; (4) grassroots involvement; (5) summary of activities; (6) accomplishments; (7) funding/support; and (8) contact. Information sources are listed. A user's guide is included that lists the programs by 24 topic areas representing program focus, age or target groups served, and primary location. (BJV)