Cloverdale Plaza Apartments, a HUD assisted development in Bossier City, recently got a major face lift that included the construction of a new community center. The community center is available for a variety of functions and also houses a Neighborhood Networks computer learning center for residents. The center is equipped with eight new computers and offers classes, with a focus on the children that live in the complex. A special �story time� exposes children to some of the classics while the "creative corner" promotes ways to build self-esteem.

Sonna Frierson is the newly hired Neighborhood Networks coordinator and is anxious to expand programs and opportunities for residents. Plans are already underway to initiate programs that will assist single moms increase their career opportunities. Sonna was very excited when the center received four additional computers from the Louisiana Neighborhood Networks Consortium who acquired 35 excess computers from the Shreveport HUD Office. When asked her reaction to the donated equipment, Sonna stated: "now the residents have more opportunity to access the Internet for their personal needs."

Created in 1995, Neighborhood Networks was one of the first federal initiatives aimed at promoting self-sufficiency and providing technology access to residents living in HUD assisted housing and communities. By encouraging property owners and managers to open onsite, multiservice technology centers, HUD hoped the community-based initiative would have a profound positive effect on the lives of residents�and it has. Just ask Loreka and Haylee.