An original goal of Chicano Studies was to promote improvement of social and economic conditions in the community, with Chicana and Chicano scholars at the forefront of community struggles. Within this perspective, research is problem-based and part of the community action process. Chicano community groups want to work with researchers and scholars who are both culturally competent and well qualified in their field of inquiry. To build trust with a community, researchers need to prove their commitment to community needs. They can do this by making themselves available to meet with community groups and leaders free of charge until funds are available, volunteering to conduct staff training, writing grants for community organizations, or helping staff members and their children gain access to higher education. Many skills of researchers and scholars can be useful to community groups and should be shared with them. A scholar/researcher should be open to learning from the community and avoid a condescending or superior attitude. Humility and willingness to listen are important. Building a partnership with community groups involves adjustment on both sides. Community groups often get frustrated with the time required for data collection. Researchers need to educate the group about the role of research in policy development and social change. (TD)