This area, I'm told, used to be Gang and Drug infested, though the 'Partner's against Crime' program (of which we are proud to be an active partner in) has cleaned it up some. Because of this, we now have a relatively safe 'outdoor' play arena for our children. We are also a desert community with wide ranges of temperatures so our children can't necessarily play with the same 'toy' types all year round . We are a lower income complex, in that our rents are affordable for the hardworking families. However, here in lies my concern.

My dream is to provide, allow, and help the children of my complex the ability and access to 'toys' or tools to play outside when the weather permits. (I'm thinking down the line's of safety lawn darts, water pistols, buckets to fill pistols, balls, jump ropes, ????) We are a complex with an entire boundary fence. Currently, our children have personal 'toys' and otherwise generally 'hang out', both inside and outside our complex. I sure would like to offer our children the opportunity to play outdoors with purpose, thereby eliminating the 'boredom' and 'misdirection' that would lead to 'gang' and 'drug' influence creeping back into our area.

The sound of children playing and laughing is a sweet sound, as well as outdoor play is good exercise and social exposure for our children. Many are kept indoors because of the neighborhood, as well as their 'toys' are designed for indoor use, with the market being computer stuff, video, sit down indoor games and such.

I miss the children playing outdoors, though some of mine try. (mine: all of the children of my complex). The families are not rich and the children have few outdoor toys. I know I can't capture my youth of outdoor play, however, I would like to help offer the option of 'safe' outdoor play for my children. I did purchase them all water pistols (13), and do provide them water in a large bucket (my kitchen plastic trash pail) to fill them, and they seem to be having a blast! Their eyes again show sparks of fun and interest, and they say Hi and smile as we pass. They have adopted their own sense of responsibility and courtesy regarding 'squirt gun' accessibility and play too! They're polite and pick up afterwards. What a great change responsibility can do to a child who has a vested interest!

I am handicapped, and am on a limited budget, well, really a minute budget. I am not a paid manager and if there were no rent compensation I would be homeless I'm afraid. So, I have no financial means to provide all of my dream here.

The owner's of my building share my desire to have a safe outdoor play arena, however cannot allow 'pools' and 'jungle gyms' etc.... 'Management' provided things due to the exorbitant cost of insuring such ventures.

My dream, is to have a cabinet, chained down and locked outdoors underneath a stairwell, where outdoor toys would be stored for the children to access. Much like a 'Boys n Girls Club' or 'YMCA' arena. I would 'check out' the toys and games and they would be returned for future use.

Could you, would you help me with my dream through any donations? Your donations would truly be appreciated and could sure bear your name. We also could find places to mount plaques of your generosity around the complex to be sure to let tenant's and visitor's alike know to shop at your store's because you cared. We would be open to media attention which would benefit your kind deeds or even to try new products. Anything you could offer toward the goal of outdoor youth entertainment would help deter at least my kids from entering that dark beckoning element of 'gangs' and 'drugs.'

This is an individual campaign, as my Owner's cannot supply funds to provide these things, nor can I or my families. Though my owner's have given me permission to pursue such a venture, provided the liability issues are addressed and eliminate any of their liability, regarding injuries. The donated items would be the property of the 'current tenant's youth' though distributed and 'checked out' by management to assure return and then availability to other young tenant's opportunity of usage.

I don't want 'my kids' to play in the streets and get caught up in the 'negative influential element' that we are trying so hard to keep away from our complex.

I thank you for your time, and hopeful of your generosity.

T.Donofrio Manager Q-3 Apartments

My Goal outline is as follows:

• Children obtain key from Mgr.
• List what is borrowed, when and whom borrowed it.

• Items may and should bear donator's market name.
• Range of toys for range of kids. For example
• Mostly outdoor toys
• Maybe movies too.... to borrow, for evening use to wind down after outdoor play

• Would be nice if replaced by them

• Letters to possible sources.; Letter's to Sheriffs, (PAC program); Any organization that may help.; Web Marketing?