Table of Contents - HUD

how to reduce transition time, ensure that institutional knowledge is retained, and maintain programs and
services during the transition period.
Troy Chapman of the Support Center for Non Profit Management discussed the different phases of change,
how to manage change, and interim positions. He emphasized the importance of team meetings for
management staff and that transition staff must communicate with each other.
Making Your Mark with Mature Learners
More and more, mature learners are retooling for reentry into the workforce and embracing technology as
a tool to provide access to information and connect them to their families and lifelong friends. This session
taught participants how to use Neighborhood Networks centers to make their mark with mature learners in
their community.
Michael Pierce of Generations on Line spoke about how his organization provides seniors the opportunity
to become technologically literate. Hedy Bass and Joan Hansen of the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program
(RSVP) Orange County discussed the potential of Baby Boomers in relation to RSVP. Karen Heppler of G&B
Real Estate Services and Kris Martin of the Full Utility Neighborhood Networks Computer Center addressed
the issue of loneliness in the senior community. They discussed how technology can empower seniors.
Write it Right: Tips and Tools for Grant Writing Success
The art and science of grant writing was explored in this workshop. Professional grant writers discussed
strategies for identifying grant opportunities, conducting research to determine if a grant opportunity is right
for a center, preparing a grant proposal, and conducting the appropriate follow-up activities.
Renee Bourque of Bright Star Grant Consultants presented the basics of grant writing. Ms. Bourque’s
presentation discussed the basic model of a grant, and included information on grantseeking and
determining whether the organization has the capacity to implement the selected grant. She also spoke
about possible partners for grants and how to develop a letter of inquiry.
Connecting Your Center to Community Volunteers
Neighborhood Networks centers often use volunteers to expand their staffing capacity. But where do you
find them? How do you manage their time and responsibilities? This workshop provided successful strategies
for recruiting, managing, and recognizing volunteers.
Rebecca Quinn of the Heart of Florida United Way Volunteer Center discussed how to connect a
Neighborhood Networks center to another nonprofit, the importance of volunteers, and how centers should
assess the need of volunteers. She also addressed proper supervision and recognizing volunteers.
Financial Literacy
Smart money management helps residents plan for their future. Opening bank accounts, balancing
checkbooks, credit counseling, and financial planning are important tools to help families achieve financial
independence. This workshop discussed how to teach residents about money management.
24 Neighborhood Networks