A study assessed the needs of Wisconsin single parents, homemakers, and displaced homemakers and identified barriers they encounter in obtaining education, training, and employment. A total of 770 new participants from 15 vocational/technical colleges responded to the written survey; 335 responded to the program completers' survey; 15 lead staff completed the staff survey; 43 individuals completed the All Staff surveys; and 7 program participants were interviewed on site. Program staff were interviewed at three locations. Of the educational activities presented in the needs assessment, over half of the new participants indicated needs in all areas. Strongest needs were for career assessment, career planning, counseling, financial support, and training for job skills. Overall, age, ethnicity, community size, and participant category somewhat influenced activities and services needed. Fear of failure was by far the major barrier to program participation. Over half of the program completers indicated needs in all areas of educational activities and services. Programs determined participants' needs in various ways. A wide range of educational activities and support services were available and addressed the broad range of needs participants indicated. Better links with community organizations and better communication within and outside institutions were recommended. (The text contains 70 tables. Appendixes include 17 additional tables and instruments.) (YLB)