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Reports on an early 1990s ethnographic study of a Head Start program in south-central Los Angeles that explored the program's impact on women who participated either as low-wage workers or parent volunteers. It is pointed out that Head Start is both a social program & a low-wage work site. Even though much of the work is done by parent volunteers, the distinction between wage workers & volunteers was found to be more blurred than expected, & roughly 70% of the paid staff were former volunteers. The women's stories indicate that Head Start is a powerful force of positive change in lives beset with problems, frustrations, & despair. Involvement made the women feel nurtured & strong. "Care" was provided through a complex network of mutually enabling relationships that promoted personal growth, social competency, relational trust, & civic engagement. It is concluded that Head Start provides women with the guidance & support needed to break free of self-doubts & destructive relationships. Excerpts from the interviews are included & suggested are made for further research. 20 References. J. Lindroth