Certain community groups may be targeted for participation in studies due to their ethnicity, religion, or geographic location. Regardless of the reason for the participation, the risks and benefits to these communities must be considered by the investigator. The investigator should identify the person or persons who are able to provide consent on behalf of the community. It is suggested that this be accomplished through public meetings in which community members address their concerns directly to the investigator. The consultation of a community advisory board, if one exists, may be quite beneficial in order to ensure that the communication between the investigator and the community members is ongoing. In conclusion, the researcher needs to ensure two-way dialogue with the community members (perhaps through this advisory board) prior to, and during the conduct of, the research.