Increased migration to rural communities by urbanites has focused greater attention on the role of the rural community college as the focal point of community activity and the major source of significant leadership and direction in community development efforts. Through its community service programs, the community college can contribute to community development in a manner that is well-planned and compatible with community goals and aspirations. This involves assessment of community needs through awareness of the racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic composition of the population and through continuing contact with businesses, industries, government organizations and agencies, churches and civic service organizations within the community. An active community service program involves many challenges for the rural community college, including: (1) scheduling appropriate instruction and experiences, especially those which contribute to the leadership skills of community members, during hours and at locations convenient to various segments of the population; (2) publicizing programs through non-traditional methods; (3) breaking down attitudinal and psychological barriers that hinder community participation; (4) procuring accessible and adequate facilities; (5) obtaining qualified part-time instructors; and (6) developing alternative delivery techniques to expand access to instruction. (LS)