Blacks carry a disproportionate share of the economic burdens affecting America's people. Moreover, the income and employment discrepancies between black and white families are widening. The economic status of blacks is tied to the state of local, State and Federal government budgets, as well as to the general economy. Thus, the black population is particularly hurt by congressional inaction in the areas of welfare reform, national health insurance, and urban policy. In terms of employment, within almost every subgroup (age and sex), black unemployment rates are more than twice those for whites. Those most affected by recent labor trends are the nation's youth. General problems of youth unemployment are aggravated for blacks because of continuing racial discrimination and because of the fact that blacks are concentrated in central cities where jobs are most scarce. Together with the economic revival of urban areas, educational and job training programs are necessary for minority groups. Career development programs must focus on psychological, moral, political and social values, as well as upon job skills. The collaborative efforts of individuals, families, and religious and community institutions are all important to the development of this educational model. In essence, educational concerns should include the issues of responsibility, civic pride, moral responsibility, leadership, and community service. (Author/GC)