This paper reviews the rationale for community services education and the effects of different methods of financing adult education programs. Two case studies of community services financing in California are reported to illustrate different approaches toward financing permissible under state statute. The College of San Mateo finances its community services program by both local tax and user's fees, with emphasis on the latter, while Foothill College utilizes both taxes and fees, with the emphasis on the former. Both colleges' programs are essentially enrollment-driven and fee-supported, with fees set to cover the expenses of each course. Both colleges also specify lower fees for certain target populations generally found in the lowest income brackets, and scholarships are available when necessary. Although public funding of community services has often been a source of controversy, it is argued that such community-oriented programs provide valuable services to society. It is therefore recommended that (1) the maximum community service tax should be levied; (2) fees should be established by Boards of Trustees, (3) federal aid should be sought for specific programs but state aid should not be sought lest restrictions on types of courses be imposed; and (4) scholarships should be established for community services and publicized. (JDS)