Activities conducted by the Massachusetts Bureau of Special Needs (BSN) Division of Occupational Education designed to strengthen communication between BSN central staff and regional staff, and to explain more fully to the regional staff the goals and priorities for service to the disadvantaged and handicapped, are described in this handbook. Focus is on demonstrating how the BSN advocacy position works to assure better service to target groups through equitable distribution of funds. Since proposals are submitted requesting funds, the handbook suggests how BSN can meet its obligation to offer technical assistance and encouragement in the design and submission of proposals for funds from deprived areas. Design of disadvantaged programs is discussed as a guide for planning a strong proposal. Characteristics of a program for special needs are summarized as flexible, strong in the area of supportive services, encompassing all types of vocational education programs, and public or nonpublic. Several currently approved projects for the handicapped are described to exemplify cooperative efforts between BSN and existing collaborative programs and schools serving the handicapped. Seminars, workshops, and meetings involving community agencies and parent groups are suggested to meet the need for occupational education information resources within the community. Monitoring and evaluation are discussed to show what the BSN expects and how it will administer programs for persons with special needs. (TA)