Adults learning English as a Second Language (ESL) come from different cultures and countries, vary in their education backgrounds, and have diverse reasons for learning English. While reports of overcrowded classrooms and long waiting lists for classes might indicate that intensive outreach and retention efforts are not necessary, many successful programs work hard to enhance outreach and ensure retention. This digest discusses outreach methods, examines learners' reasons for enrolling in ESL classes and for leaving the classes, and suggests ways to improve retention. The digest is divided into the following sections: (1) outreach (learners, program partners, the media, bilingual support staff); (2) why learners enroll in adult ESL classes; (3) why adult learners leave programs; (4) ensuring retention from the start; (5) setting realistic goals and reporting progress; (6) using varied approaches to instruction; and (7) collaborating to provide services. (JL)