The chief purpose of this study was to discover differences in perception among a sample of educators (24), executives (9), and practitioners (73) as to abilities needed by a community family life educator and best ways to assure these abilities and training. Data were collected by interviews and a questionnaire. Of 12 preselected abilities, the majority of respondents agreed that particularly needed were the abilities to: challenge students to think critically; create an atmosphere of acceptance; understand himself and others unlike himself; and work with clientele. Less than half the educators and practitioners thought it important to be able to teach beyond one's own experience; but 75% of the executives thought it important. Educators felt more strongly than either practitioners or executives that the ability to convey information, feelings, and attitudes was important. Since differences in perception do exist, educators need to take the opinions of executives and practitioners into account when they plan training programs. (PT)