Community Learning Centers serving kids and parents in HUD-insured and -assisted housing across the country are holding open houses and other community events to celebrate Neighborhood Networks Week, August 11-18, 2002. The events are showcasing the achievements of low-income individuals and families, and the outstanding work of community center staff, volunteers, property owners and other stakeholders.

Today, more than 1,000 Neighborhood Networks centers throughout America, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands are helping low-income families and individuals become successful. That's why there are thousands of success stories of residents who learned computer skills, secured jobs, increased their income, went to college, moved from welfare to work and bought homes after completing training at Neighborhood Networks centers.

Through innovative public-private partnerships, Neighborhood Networks establishes community learning centers that improve computer access, advance literacy and create employment opportunities for adults, children and seniors living in HUD insured and assisted housing. Created by HUD in 1995, Neighborhood Networks was one of the first federal programs to promote self-sufficiency and help provide computer access to low- and moderate-income communities.

Neighborhood Networks Week will highlight center programs for seniors, adults and youth. Nationally, Neighborhood Networks centers can participate in a series of Web events planned with NASA, The Beehive, SeniorVoice, the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA), Monster.com and others. Local events will include activities focused on adult education, job training, literacy and safety. Centers will also showcase partnerships with local police, schools, businesses and other community organizations. Other local events include grand openings, health fairs, center spruce-ups and recognition ceremonies.

Across the country, Neighborhood Networks Week will show how centers open doors for low-income families to a variety of job opportunities, social services, microenterprise possibilities, and educational programs. By participating in this weeklong regional and national event, centers will:

• Foster good community relations
• Engage youth, adults, seniors, and families in educational events
• Promote partnership building
• Build fundraising capacity
• Affirm a center's place within the family of Neighborhood Networks centers

HUD invites all members of the community, center directors and staff, residents, partners, local businesses, and non-profit organizations to participate in this exciting initiative. Let's make Neighborhood Networks Week 2002 the talk of your town! For the most recent updates on Neighborhood Networks Week, or to get more information about Neighborhood Networks, visit the Web site (www.NeighborhoodNetworks.org) or email at mail@NeighborhoodNetworks.org.