The populations of Mexican Americans and other Latinos in Berwyn and Cicero, Illinois--two of Chicago's oldest suburbs--have increased dramatically in the last decade. This needs assessment interviewed 172 people individually and in 19 focus groups. Findings indicate that education, children, and youth were the top priorities for Latinos and non-Latinos, followed by civic participation and political representation, health, immigration, crime, and violence. Respondents felt that more Latino and bilingual school personnel should be hired. Additional daycare was needed, and expanded youth programs would encourage high school completion and help prevent teen pregnancy. Latino youth needs included after-school recreational opportunities that are culturally relevant and welcoming. Expansion of youth programs could keep young Latinos from joining gangs. Better adult education, such as English-as-a-second-language and GED classes, could facilitate Latinos' integration into a new society. Many saw a need for increased leadership training and capacity building to bolster Latino community organizations. Respondents also supported advocacy and community organizing initiatives, efforts to monitor selected public policies, and diversity awareness programs to increase trust among community residents. Health care needs included services sensitive to the needs of the uninsured and available to immigrants; bilingual and bicultural medical personnel; and initiatives to address teenage pregnancy, domestic violence, and services for disabled children. Immigrants needed legal assistance to understand their rights and responsibilities as well as assistance in becoming U.S. citizens. (Contains many bar graphs and other figures) (TD)