Last month students at La Salle High School in Pasadena opened hearts and hands for a worthy cause --- and this month it's happening all over again.

In October, students of The Visual and Performing Arts Department hosted an evening of MILAGROS! (Miracles!) --- an event dedicated to raising awareness and funds in support of La Casa de Milagros, a children's orphanage in Peru.

More than $2,500 was raised that evening at the simple soup supper that also featured entertainment by the Dance, Music and Theatre departments.

This month, La Salle's annual Christmas party and Adopt-A-Family project brings together students, faculty, staff and parents with local needy families. Countless hours of preparation go into the project that's culminated in a family dinner and a visit from Santa.

"My goal is to make sure that each family gets everything that they ask for," said Ms. Elizabeth Mullen, service project coordinator. "It is very fulfilling to have the job of ensuring that this is another great Christmas for so many people."

Now in its eighth year, the project is connected with Hillside Home for Children of Pasadena, with whom efforts are coordinated so students can have more contact with those they are serving.

Each year, the "adopted" families' responses to La Salle's generosity are overwhelmingly positive. As a "thank you" to all students, faculty and staff who participate in the gift-wrapping party each year, the families provide a carne asada lunch.