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“One man can be a crucial ingredient on a team, but one man cannot make a team.”Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

Last night was Hope for Prisoners 50 Christmases event at The Crossing Church in Las Vegas:

50 inmates and their families, some who haven’t been together for Christmas in years; 50 living rooms set up, complete with decorated trees and presents donated for each family; 50 family meals donated by Three Square; 100’s of volunteers including LVMPD officers, Hope graduates and mentors, members of this wonderful and caring Church and so many others; 1000’s of donated bicycles and beautifully wrapped gifts; and Countless smiles and tears of joy.

This event was 1 man’s vision (the crucial ingredient) but it was powerfully supported by the entire Hope for Prisoners’ dedicated team. Everyone there got the holiday spirit, and all were touched by the Grace of God. It was an evening filled with the true meaning and spirit of this holiday season and I was one among many who were moved to tears and nearly speechless at the glory of what we witnessed.  We wait all year for this holiday season and the chance to do something special: give others the gift of your time and love today.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (b. 1947): American retired professional basketball player, NBA MVP, All-Star, member of eight NBA championship teams