Youth Technology Center Opens Its Doors

As part of a revitalization effort that has brought together businesses, non-profits and government organizations, the Foundation recently joined the Community Preservation and Development Corporation (CPDC) in the grand opening of a 7,000 square foot Youth Development Gateway Technology Learning Center in the Edgewood Terrace community in Washington, DC.

The event took place during HUD's Neighborhood Networks week, a celebration of the Network Neighborhoods initiative created to improve our communities and youths' lives through technology. The effort began in 1995 and has resulted in more than 1,000 community learning centers that bring computer access and learning to low- and moderate-income residents. This year's Neighborhood Networks Theme is Exploring Technology, Enriching Lives.

"The success of our young people is a top priority for the Foundation," said Mike Schwartz, Community Relations director at Freddie Mac. "That's why we've invested in CPDC, to provide young people with tutoring, a helping hand with homework and the chance to learn about technology and develop their interests."

For the past five years, the Foundation has partnered with CPDC to give young people opportunities to develop their skills and talent, and to build a brighter future. Recent support included a $185,000 grant for education, youth development and family strengthening programs for children and families who live at Edgewood Terrace.

In addition, CPDC is aligned with Freddie Mac's corporate mission in its commitment to affordable housing. The organization has developed 3,500 affordable housing units and is working on 500 more. CPDC strives to provide affordable housing that offers its tenants access to technology. Each apartment in the Edgewood Terrace community has high-speed Internet access and tenants enjoy state-of-the art facilities such as a recording studio.

Since 1989, CPDC's mission has been to create and preserve financially sound, socially responsible affordable housing for low and moderate-income individuals and families through acquisition, development and ownership. The organization also seeks to develop community service programs, with the participation of the residents, which strengthen their communities and increase opportunities for growth.