This paper presents findings of a case study that examined the role of the principal in generating community services to address students' health and social needs. The school under study was an urban elementary school in Austin, Texas, which had implemented an innovative program to address student health problems. Data were derived through document analysis, observation, and interviews with the principal and other personnel. Findings suggest that successful collaboration between the school and community social services depends on the principal's role in making contacts, providing support, and being visible in the larger community. School leaders must be familiar with five factors that affect collaborative efforts--the community's sociopolitical climate, the communication and problem-solving process, people, policies, and resources. The role of the principal in attracting community services to the schools is becoming a fundamental one. Finally, participation in such community-school programs requires comprehensive, interdisciplinary evaluation. (LMI)