This paper discusses the results of a study that investigated the effectiveness of the Fort Bragg demonstration project, a program which provided a comprehensive approach to the delivery of mental health and substance abuse services to a population of approximately 48,000 military-related children residing within the Fort Bragg catchment area. Over a 6-month period, more than 200 individuals were interviewed, including administrators, clinicians, families, policymakers, and other stakeholders. Through the study, there emerged greater clarity as to what the Fort Bragg demonstration project was and was not. Fort Bragg was not managed care; it sought specifically to increase access and utilization without particular regard to cost. The demonstration also was not a system of care or a continuum for high end users. It was a demonstration of a community-based continuum of mental health and substance abuse services with a single point of access. It expanded the array of services, eliminated co-pays and deductibles, reduced use of inpatient and residential treatment, increased access and utilization, and was held in generally high regard by families and the larger community. Critical lessons learned are also discussed. (CR)