Community's Immigrant Residents Grateful for Email Access

Emotional expressions of gratitude greeted members of the HUD Denver Field Office at the recent grand opening of the new Neighborhood Networks community-learning center at Allied Housing in Denver, Colorado. Many members of the community are Russian immigrants who were thrilled with their new ability to communicate with friends and family back home via e-mail.

"This will allow them to have another way to interact with people in their country," said Tony Hagerty, HUD Denver Field Office Information Specialist and Neighborhood Network Regional Coordinator. "That's why the celebration was so emotional for many of the speakers and residents in attendance."

Speakers-addressing an audience of more than 110 people from the property, surrounding area businesses and nearby properties-focused on how computers and the Internet expand people's opportunities and enrich their lives. Speakers included Jessica Ross, Administration Director; Doris McLaughlin, Resident Council President; Fran Stern, Allied Housing Board Member; Steve Bedell, Executive Director; and Mr. Hagerty. Social Worker Mila Rodionova translated for the speakers.

The computer workstations, purchased with the project's residual receipts, will assist both the elderly and disabled tenants living at the Section 202, 400-unit complex. The computer workstations include state-of-the-art "touch screens" that automatically activate the computer with a simple touch. Residents will also have the opportunity to receive training on how to use the Internet, send email and perform basic computer functions.

More local information about Neighborhood Networks can be found on our website.