The program had three main goals: (1) to increase the employment and earnings of unemployed or underemployed noncustodial parents, (2) to increase child support payment, and (3) to support and improve parenting behavior.

The HCD program implemented in Riverside, CA, stressed that participants should spend time receiving education or training to prepare for good jobs. If participants did not have a high school diploma or general education diploma, the program provided basic education classes in the public school system to help participants make progress toward their goals (such as increasing their literacy level). Case managers were accountable for the employment and education outcomes of their clients and therefore encouraged success and emphasized and enforced program participation.