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Neighborhood Networks Program

The Tuscaloosa Housing Authority’s Neighborhood Networks Program continues to play a vital role in fulfilling THA’s commitment to promoting self sufficiency and improving the quality of life for residents. The Neighborhood Networks Centers help residents reach their goals to achieve economic self-sufficiency through access to computers and computer-based training.

THA currently has Neighborhood Networks Centers at Branscomb, Crescent East, Delaware Jackson, Hay Court, Robertson Tower, and Rosedale. The McKenzie Court Center will be opening soon.

Because computers have become gateways to knowledge and employment, providing computer-based programs and learning experiences is at the core of THA’s Neighborhood Networks program’s philosophy and vision. The goal of the Neighborhood Networks program is to help adults advance their education, pursue new and better employment opportunities, and move toward economic self-sufficiency. Thirteen residents have found employment after participating in the NN program. The NN program offers group computer classes as well as individual computer instruction for the maximum personal growth of THA residents. Through up-to-date computer software, residents gain practical computer skills necessary for future employment or academic opportunities. The Center also has educational software for children.

The Neighborhood Networks program partners with several local service providers and organizations to provide a range of services to meet the individual needs of THA residents.

Shelton State Community College has partnered with THA’s Neighborhood Networks program to provide a variety of services for our residents. Shelton State’s Adult Education department provides GED training for many of our residents. Residents who demonstrate a certain level of mastery can complete their GED tutorial online in the Neighborhood Networks computer labs.

Many Neighborhood Networks participants also participate in the Focused Industry Training (FIT) program, a jobs readiness program offered by Shelton State’s Workforce Development Center. The FIT program creates career pathways for individuals with limited education and employment experience. FIT provides the skills required for entry- level employment with many Alabama industries and businesses. FIT graduates become “Alabama Certified Workers.”

Stillman College staffs community learning centers at McKenzie Court, Hay Court and Branscomb. The learning centers provide onsite computer classes and GED tutoring for residents. They also have youth tutorial programs and computer training programs.

For residents who have demonstrated a desire to pursue higher education, Phillip Coleman, the adult education recruiter at Shelton State, has provided career and educational counseling services for THA residents.

Many residents have disabilities that prevent them from obtaining employment. These disabilities often are a reason a person would seek public housing. For these participants, the Neighborhood Networks program has developed a relationship with Vocational Rehabilitation. This program provides services to eligible individuals with disabilities to improve opportunities for employment.

The Neighborhood Networks program currently provides small business development services to our residents. We work with residents on developing their business plans, developing marketing materials, and obtaining small business loans.

The Neighborhood Networks program has partnered with the YMCA after-school programs to offer computer training to children in the developments. We stress developing computer skills and completing homework, but we also give kids time to surf the Internet or listen to music as an incentive to keep students interested in the program. The YMCA, the Neighborhood Networks program, and the children we serve have benefited from this partnership.

At Hay Court, the NNP and YMCA has been working with faculty at the University of Alabama to create a digital storytelling program.

The Neighborhood Networks program at THA is committed to the continued success of our residents and will continue to recruit new participants and partnerships to improve the quality of services THA provides to residents. Almost 100 adult residents have taken advantage of the NNP services available this year.

For more information concerning this program please contact the following:
• Laura Medders (Neighborhood Network Coordinator) (205) 758-6619 ext 135