Rural communities are often plagued with socioeconomic challenges that contribute to family vulnerability and developmental challenges. Family Development Programs is a course that provides learning experiences related to rural community issues and family interactions with an opportunity to review programs that are provided within the region. Existing services to children and youth are assessed by the Family Development Task Force (FDTF) and programs are evaluated through testimony from the Family Development Focus Group (FDFG) regarding their contributions to family resilience. Also included are exercises to elicit strategic plans such as marital enrichment and alternative parenting strategies directed toward prevention of domestic violence and support of community safety. As a result of the FDTF and FDFG collaborations from 1994-1999 (Kansas Partnership for Family Development and Community Support), a needs assessment for the region is evolving, and priorities for family development are emerging. Also, the importance of a problem solving approach in implementing programs is encouraged through projects that seem useful in professional development of counselors and providers in community planning. Appendix A, Rationale for Program Implementation, is provided. Appendix B discusses individual committees involved with the program. (Contains 7 tables and 27 references.) (Author/MKA)