This paper analyzes the operation of a governmental policy of poverty alleviation, Desarrollo Humano Oportunidades, in an indigenous community. Based on qualitative research results, it demonstrates how this program --which was designed as a standardized measure for the whole country-- presents challenges and complexities at the local level. First, it offers a brief description of Oportunidades' operation. Secondly, it explains the corporate government system (uses and customs) of an Oaxacan indigenous community and the local actors involved in Oportunidades. Then, it considers the impact of this policy in terms of the relationship between Oportunidades' actors and the uses and coustoms government officials. Finally, it offers some general guidelines to improve the operation of the program in indigenous communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]