Ashley Highsmith, 15, of Fresno, CA, started Ashley's Blessings, which gives holiday presents to children in local shelters.

What kind of philanthropic or volunteer work did/do you do?

Ashley: Giving away Christmas gifts to children in homeless shelters.

What is the name and location of the organization?

Ashley: Ashley's Blessings in California.

Tell us about the project, especially who benefits from this work.

Ashley: Ashley's Blessings is something that I came up with on my own. It gives children in a women and children's center Christmas gifts.

What inspired you to get involved?

Ashley: Life. When I wake up I am truly blessed, I have everything that I need. I am truly grateful for that. I know that many children do not have this and I wanted to share the love with them.

How did you first get involved? Give us some details.

Ashley: I started everything by myself, then my family got involved, and my church got involved. I really felt blessed that they had put so much time into it.

What is/was the best thing about your experience?

Ashley: The best part of my experience was seeing the smiles on the children and parents' faces! Also, I enjoyed how the children at my church learned to be grateful for what they have!

What is/was the hardest part?

Ashley: Getting people to believe that I was going to do it! Some people thought that I was way too young, and that I would start something and not finish it.

What was the biggest surprise?

Ashley: The biggest surprise was how much support I got! I had calls pouring in! From insurance companies, department stores, neighbors, and family members.

What new things have you learned as a result of your experience and how have you changed as a result?

Ashley: I have learned that if you put you heart to something YOU can achieve it know matter what others say. I have changed in the simple fact that I believe that I can do anything I set my mind to.

What advice would you give to someone who is thinking of getting involved in philanthropy or volunteering?

Ashley: You'll get a new meaning of your life and what you have! It'll open your eyes to the beauty the world has!