Although the primary purpose of the Neighborhood Networks program in Hartford (Connecticut) is to help residents get jobs, the establishment of community computer centers can benefit senior citizens and children in addition to would-be job applicants. There are six primary types of computer centers: (1) those that introduce computers in general;…

The so-called "digital divide"--unequal access to information technology--is one of many social inequalities faced by individuals who are low-income, ethnic minorities, or immigrants. Surprisingly, the digital divide is even larger for young people than it is for adults, with African-American and Latino young people, as well as…

"Place-based assistance" is not a new concept. Asking what people want and finding ways to give it to them sounds simplistic, but it can result in "win-win" solutions in which everyone involved benefits. This document is a guide to using networking and surveys of residents to determine community needs. Some case studies show…