A study examined the job-training needs of high-risk adults to determine who they are, what they need in order to obtain productive careers paying a living wage, what is available, what works and doesn't, and what South Carolina should do to assist this population. Data were obtained from several dozen focus groups across the state, discussion with state government leaders and national experts, and review of national studies. The study identified these three groups of people who need assistance, which together make up more than 30 percent of the potential work force in the state: the chronically unemployed, recently laid-off workers, and the working poor. The groups have somewhat different, but overlapping, needs and prospects. They are served by social service agencies, education agencies, private non-profit agencies, and for-profit companies. The major funding sources for work force development are welfare reform and the Workforce Investment Act. Lack of reliable child care and transportation remain chronic barriers for many. Features common to successful programs include the following: (1) collaboration (among providers, early provider involvement, ongoing communication); (2) program design (customized to employer needs, early agreements, clear goals, minimal hassle, avoidance of labeling, continual staff development); (3) program services (both work and learning, hands-on experience, personal attention, strong support services, job coaches/developers, credibility); (4) training delivery (job-specific skills, content blended with relationship-building, integrated skills, intense training, active learning, high expectations, motivation, work experience); and (5) program accountability (tracking and documentation, accountability of clients, staff, employers, and funders). Although distance learning has been suggested as beneficial for these groups, little has been done in that direction. The study recommended creation of a task force to explore what works and doesn't and to prepare a detailed plan for a "work and learn together" system for the state. (Appendices contain project profiles and 27 references.) (KC)