Network Neighborhoods (fwd)

[Albert W. Boss]

Hi, folks.  My sincere apologies for any duplications of this message you
may receive.  This is a project in whose potential I strongly believe,
especially with regard to mutual benefit between NN and SCN.  

In a nutshell, Network Neighborhoods has a major component we at SCN lack:
bricks and mortar.  They have places to put community computer centers, in
HUD areas where the need is pretty high.  We have major components they
lack: SCN has a substantial volunteer base already active in computer
training and training for use of online resources.  

As we strive to extend our reach into the community, and to make sure no
one fails to rise on the information tsunami, I think working with Network
Neighborhoods has tremendous potential.  I don't see it so much as taking
on new work (Lord knows we have enough!) but as another essential channel
for work we're planning on doing anyway.

Please take the time to consider Angela's note below and to respond
directly to her if you think you can help.  Based on a phone call with her
yesterday, there's a great need for people to help them gather old
computers, make sure they work, and turn them over to deserving people.  I
know we've done this in the past; probably some among us could offer tips,
and hopefully some might even volunteer their time to help with that part.
(It's outside my area of expertise, unfortunately.)

Best wishes to all,

Al Boss

----- forwarded message -----

Date: Thu, 08 May 97 12:49:43 EST
From: Angela_Tull at hud.gov
To: Angela_Tull_at_SMTPPOST at hud.gov, alboss at scn.org
Subject: Neighborhood Networks

   
	Thank you for talking with me the other day.  I am following 
up with some information regarding the Neighborhood 	Networks 
program. This program is a national initiative by  U.S.  
Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). I am seeking 
to create some  partnerships. Thank you for your help.
    
    I have been contacting organizations around the Puget Sound 
in regards to the Neighborhood Networks program. This program is 
unfunded so we focus on developing partnerships within the 
community. One of the main points is to create sustainable 
community computer learning centers. We are working with schools, 
community centers, HUD properties, religious institutions, social 
services, business and other partners in the community.  With the 
community invested in these programs, the programs will indeed be 
very successful. The following are some main points regarding the 
Neighborhood Networks program.

    The mission of this program is to enhance the 
self-sufficiency, employability, and economic self-reliance of 
low-income families and elderly living in HUD-insured and 
-assisted properties by providing residents with access to 
computer and training resources.


    Today's technology quickly becomes tomorrow's necessity and 
nowhere will this be more evident than in the workplace.  
Coinciding with welfare reform, Neighborhood Networks increases 
the employability of residents by providing opportunities for 
education and job training. Residents may have direct online 
access to thousands of career job opportunities.

    The idea behind Neighborhood Networks is that a community can 
combine its resources, build computer learning center, and bring 
the 21st century to the doorstep of residents who otherwise may 
not have access to technology.


    I am hoping to create a partnership with your organization. I
    understand that your organization is very interested 
investing in the community and does provide support for 
educational programs. The Neighborhood Networks program needs not 
just computers and software, but technical support as well.


    The Neighborhood Networks centers have the following needs.

    * The Neighborhood Networks centers initially have to submit 
a proposal that outlines the computer center's budget, and 
long-term plan for  the sustainability of the center. It would be 
helpful if volunteers with technical knowledge can help the 
centers with their proposals.

    * NN needs technical support in putting computer systems 
together, technical advice, online coordination, volunteer 
consulting, etc.

    * NN needs people who are interested in teaching computer 
skills, job skills, Internet training, web page creation and 
software installation. It is also important to train the 
community members who utilize the Neighborhood Networks center on 
how to maintain the computers. This is an important part of 
sustainability.

    * NN needs used and new computers, modems, printers, cables, 
memory boards, etc.


    If you are interested in participating in this program, 
please let me know. There are many Neighborhood Networks centers 
within the King County area. Please respond back to :


    Angela Tull     Neighborhood Networks Resource Coordinator

    E-mail: angela_tull at hud.gov

    Phone: (206) 220-5222 #3135




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