RISMEDIA, August 4, 2010—The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced Neighborhood Networks Week 2010 will be held August 2-7 with the theme, “A Successful Past, A Promising Future.” The week-long observance is intended to raise public awareness about Neighborhood Networks, an education and technology-based initiative designed to improve the lives of residents living in HUD-assisted housing.
“For 15 years, Neighborhood Networks has helped thousands of individuals on their path toward self sufficiency,” said Carol J. Galante, deputy assistant secretary for the Office of Multifamily Housing Programs. “We hope every Neighborhood Networks center across the country will take some time during this week to recognize the vital role they play in the lives of so many residents living in their community.”
Today, Neighborhood Networks has grown into 1,500 learning centers in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. These centers provide residents of HUD Federal Housing Administration (FHA)-insured and-assisted properties with access to technology so they can achieve greater self-sufficiency and professional, academic and personal success.
What’s in Store for Neighborhood Networks Week 2010?
During Neighborhood Networks Week 2010, hundreds of centers across the country will observe one of the three Neighborhood Networks Week Special Event Days, including:
– Do It for You Day, which focuses on how centers are helping residents achieve greater self-sufficiency. Events may include job fairs, resume-writing workshops, and graduation ceremonies. This year, “Do It for You Day” will be observed on Tuesday, August 3.
– Get Connected Day, which highlights the many ways centers deliver technology access and enhance residents’ technological skills, as well as showcases the critical role technology plays in today’s society. Events may include computer lab tours, Internet use workshops and online scavenger hunts. This year, “Get Connected Day” will be observed on Wednesday, August 4.
– Know Your Neighbors Day, which focuses on building the bonds of neighbors to build stronger communities. Events may include center-hosted block parties, potlucks, barbecues, festivals or open houses. This year, “Know Your Neighbors Day” will be observed on Thursday, August 5.
To compliment these events, HUD will sponsor Web-based events through its Neighborhood Networks website enabling more centers to participate in Neighborhood Networks Week.
For more information, visit www.NeighborhoodNetworks.org or www.hud.gov or call 888-312-2743.
