Findings and recommendations of the Executive Panel of the Ford Foundation Project on Social Welfare and the American Future are presented. The research was based on a comprehensive review of Americans' social welfare needs and of policy alternatives. The findings show that, although the present system was well conceived, it is now outdated and insufficient to meet the needs of millions of Americans. Thus, there is a growing social deficit, as shown by the large number of teen pregnancies, the high percentage of youth dropping out of school, the large numbers of people who lack health insurance, and the many elderly persons who must impoverish themselves to obtain long-term care. A comprehensive set of specific recommendations are made for infants, children, young adults, working persons, and the elderly. The establishment of a special trust fund for social services is advocated. The names of the members of the executive panel are listed, and information is given about how to obtain a copy of the complete final report. (VM)