Within a system, change affects stakeholders differently. Consequently, when making changes in the mental health system, mental health agencies should expect varied reactions from staff, community members, consumers, and families. Since misunderstandings can stymie efforts to implement evidence-based and promising practices, it is important to build consensus in the community. "Getting Started with Evidence-Based and Promising Practices" gives an overview of the activities that are generally involved in implementing evidence-based and promising practices and tells how to make them culturally competent. This booklet is particularly relevant to the following: (1) Mental health authorities; and (2) Agency staff who develop and manage these programs. A list of resources is included.