PITTSBURGH, Dec. 10, 2003 - The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and Bidwell Training Center, Inc. (BTC) sponsor an Opportunity Fair that showcases programs that prepare individuals for current and future job openings. The Entree to Opportunity Fair will be held on Wednesday, December 10, 2003 at Bidwell’s Harbor Gardens location, 1650 Metropolitan Street, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Partners in this event include: Allegheny County Housing Authority, City of McKeesport Housing Authority, City of Pittsburgh Housing Authority, Beaver County Housing Authority, CCAC, University of Pittsburgh College of General Studies, Career Link, Point Park University, Bidwell Training Center, Riverside Center for Innovation, New Choices, New Century Careers, Pennsylvania Women Work, HUD, Urban League of Pittsburgh, Reemployment Transition Center. Bidwell staff will conduct on-going tours to accommodate individuals who will arrive throughout the day. An extra feature will be the opportunity for attendees to see demonstrations and learn more about job growth fields in culinary arts and horticulture technology.

“The collaboration between HUD, Bidwell Training Center and the Fair Partners is an outstanding example of how world class education and training centers can partner with community based organizations to highlight educational opportunities leading to real jobs in this region” said Val Nije, Vice President of Operations for Bidwell Training Center.

HUD Field Office Director Richard Nemoytin said “HUD can make no greater contribution to the strength of our communities and the quality of life of residents than to support long term economic growth through job creation and small business development. The partnership with Bidwell and our Opportunity Fair Partners represents HUD’s ongoing commitment to that effort.”