Noting that disadvantaged communities in South Africa can be empowered by involving parents and communities in the development of preschool education programs, this report presents the achievements of South Africa's Early Childhood Education and Care (educare) programs. Educare aims to develop the young child's potential to be a meaningful part of the social, economic, and cultural community. The report describes how the community, parental involvement, and empowerment serve as elements in community development. The rural environment in which the Educare teams work is also described. The next part of the report explains the Educare development process and phases of development, which include educare training; localized study groups; community organizational training; appropriate technology; nutrition, health, and safety needs assessment; parent education programs; junior primary teacher support programs; and basic adult education. The paper concludes by noting that communities as a united force have the right and the responsibility to demand participation in political, educational, cultural, and collective activities. Contains 23 references. (AP)