As a member of the Building Changes team that recently completed planning work for the Seattle Housing Authority's Yesler Terrace project, I got an inside look at an exciting new community. For the Seattle Housing Authority, the redevelopment of Yesler Terrace -- the second oldest publicly subsidized community in the U.S. and the oldest in Seattle -- is about more than just replacing aging structures and creating stable housing. It's about creating a "Community of Opportunity" for the people who live there. What does that mean? It means making education and economic opportunities more accessible to residents and supporting them to reach their personal goals. It also means providing residents with community leadership opportunities. And it means residents will have access to the support

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Friends and family often ask me "should I give money to a homeless person on the street?" I typically suggest giving respect and courtesy. I offer that money will do more if donated to an organization serving the homeless. Seattle writer Judy Lightfoot takes respect and courtesy one step further in her blog post, Begging: To give or not to give. She suggests you give one of your most cherished gifts - your time. The next time I hurry past someone holding a sign requesting money, I will ask myself if I can take the time ask some questions to understand their unique needs. Can I walk them to a store and buy them lunch or wait and pay for their bus ticket? If I really can't spare the time, I will continue with my usual pattern of smiling and sincerely saying "I wish you well." I will then

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