Primary support programs may be identified as programs, places, and activities beyond schools that are available to and appropriate for all children and their families and that supplement the family's own capacity to promote its children's safe and healthy development. This report examines 77 quality youth-serving programs that provide some segment of their programming for youth in poor communities. Information on these programs was obtained through interviews with the directors of the programs. The report is presented in three sections. Section 1 discusses the role and importance of primary supports, describes the study, and explores the significant commonalities among the programs studied. Section 2 analyzes the interviews with program directors and explores the content, goals, and strategies of the programs. Programs are grouped in six categories: (1) performance and self-expression; (2) recreation; (3) self-enhancement; (4) educational enrichment and career exploration; (5) citizenship development; and (6) comprehensive service programs. Section 3 examines the benefits offered by primary support programs in general and highlights the challenges they confront. Recommendations for further study are offered. The report concludes by asserting that good youth-serving programs have the potential to help youth master new competencies, explore new horizons, develop social responsibility, and prepare for adulthood. If such programs happen to discourage negative behaviors, this is a desirable by-product. Profiles of the programs participating in the study are appended. (Contains 15 references.) (KB)