The monograph by the National Association for Retarded Citizens (NARC) examines issues relevant to the involvement of low income and minority groups in mental retardation programs. It is stressed that a child in a low income family is more likely to be retarded than a child from a higher income family and that this interrelationship perpetuates a cycle of poverty. Previous experience is said to have taught that traditional enlistment approaches discourage participation in ARC programs by low income groups. Emphasized is the need to find out what low income residents desire in mental retardation programs. Provided are sociological facts and statistics from the federal poverty guidelines useful for persons dealing with low income families. Suggested are ways to contact families through churches, schools, clinics, recreation areas, and social agencies. Contacts are seen to serve as bridges between local ARC chapters and the poor. Recommended are local ARC projects such as providing a service not previously available to demonstrate ARC effectiveness in dealing with problems of low income families. Suggestions for involving low income members in ARC chapters include helping meet transportation needs and simplifying parliamentary procedure at meetings. Encouraged is the participation of youth in ARC chapters. A major function of ARC is thought to be service as a catalyst to broaden existing services to the retarded. (DB)