News Release

FAMILIES, COMMUNITY PARTNERS, AND HUD CELEBRATE IN THE DEDICATION OF A NEIGHBORHOOD NETWORKS COMPUTER CENTER

Everett, WA - Today, the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD), Parkside Partners, Allied Group, Inc., the residents of Parkside Apartments, and supporting community groups celebrate the dedication of the Parkside Apartments' Neighborhood Networks Center.

Located in Everett, Washington, this Neighborhood Network Center is the 42nd center in a Washington State HUD insured and assisted facility. The Parkside Apartments' Neighborhood Networks Center is part of the Neighborhood Networks Initiative sponsored by HUD to provide new economic and community- based opportunities. The initiative encourages owners and managers of HUD assisted housing to create computer learning centers on-site for the residents and community, with the help of other community partners and resources, both public and private.

Of particular significance is the fact that Parkside Apartments' Neighborhood Networks Center is a comprehensive, community-based program to provide residents with technology resources to further their ability to achieve better paying employment, have access to family and loved ones that are not in the area, and enjoy the use of computers and the Internet. Parkside Apartments has a total of 202-units and is home to approximately 489 residents, primarily families, children, and seniors. Parkside Apartments provides safe, affordable housing and supportive services. Parkside Apartments' Neighborhood Networks Center brings the services and community connections right to the resident's home.

Parkside Apartments' Neighborhood Networks Center's objectives and focus include:

• Job Skills Training/Employment
• Introduction to/Familiarization with Computers
• Internet Access and Access to Local Services
• Health Care
• Basic Adult Education, Literacy, English as a Second Language (ESL), and GED
• Youth Education, Senior Services
• Continuing Education
• Recreation

The Parkside Apartments' Neighborhood Networks Center is an example of partners working together for the benefits of the residents and community. Together these partners have created a unique environment that incorporates the use and access of technology directly into the every day routine of the residents of Parkside Apartments. It is an example of the benefits derived by linking technology and housing together to meet the needs of the residents and community.

Computer literacy is quickly becoming an important requirement of daily living in today's society. Personal computers and computer literacy greatly enhance and facilitate the individual residents' pursuit of economic independence and also provides opportunities for education, socialization, and community information.

Parkside Apartments' Neighborhood Networks Center is one of over 1000 centers that have opened up nationwide. There are 700 more in the planning stages.

For more information about the dedication or Parkside Apartments, please call Jennifer Wood, Portfolio Manager at (425) 226-5150 ext. 1239 or by email.

Learn more about Neighborhood Networks.

HUD is the nation's housing agency committed to increasing homeownership, particularly among minorities, creating affordable housing opportunities for low-income Americans, supporting the homeless, elderly, people with disabilities and people living with AIDS. The Department also promotes economic and community development as well as enforces the nation's fair housing laws. More information about HUD and its programs is available on the Internet at www.hud.gov or http://espanol.hud.gov/.