I have worked as a volunteer with the Dallas Leadership Foundation for approximately five years. This foundation offers a variety of community services & programs to under served neighborhoods/communities, and low income individuals/families in need of assistance. Some of the programs operated through Dallas Leadership Foundation (D.L.F.) include: "The Belay House, Church Prison Collaborative, Celebration of Hope, Collaboration Building with Dallas Neighborhood Associations, Ring of Hope Boxing Club, The Secret Angel, Treasures of Hope, Youth Leadership Movement, and a Yard Lamp Project" (http://www.dlftx.org/). Although there are many valuable programs offered by D.L.F., the "one" dearest to me is the "Treasures of Hope" Christmas Store. As early as July, various representatives of community organizations, businesses and churches (located throughout the city) gather together to begin the planning process for the annual opening of the "Treasures of Hope" Christmas Store in December. These representatives collect names of individuals and families who are experiencing financial hardship, loss of job, or other crises situations that may affect their ability to provide a nice Christmas for their loved ones. Throughout the year donations are collected from businesses, individuals and churches. These donated items are reduced at a rate of more than 50% off retail and participants are allowed to purchase items of their choice. D.L.F. provides an affordable shopping experience for families who may not otherwise able to purchase valuable gifts for their family members, while restoring their dignity during financial hardship. S. Giles