The philosophy and implementation of the Community Leaders Project at Everyman's University (EU), the Open University of Israel, are discussed. The project is designed to narrow social gaps in Israel by upgrading the educational level of disadvantaged populations and by developing indigeneous leadership for decision-making in the most disadvantaged neighborhoods. The social structure of Israeli society and the social context of EU's operation are described for background. Many of the targeted group have not graduated from high school. Special preparatory courses were developed that focused on basic learning skills, as well as fundamental academic subjects. After the 6-month preacademic preparatory program, the students undertake degree-level courses and participate in tutorial study one day a week. Although special assistance is provided to these students during the teaching/learning process, their assignments and final exams are evaluated according to the same criteria as those used for regular students. Information is provided on performance of both special and regular students in five academic courses. The question of whether schools can achieve both equality and quality is briefly addressed, and comments of special program participants concerning the program are included. (SW)