10th-grader helps make other girls' prom dreams come true

"I like the mermaid style," said sophomore Danielle Basista.
               
Basista is already dreaming of her senior prom.  But, before her magical night, this sophomore has made it her mission to help other girls' prom wishes come true.
               
"It's something people shouldn't miss out on," said Basista.
               
Basista came up with the idea after her 8th grade dance.  She looked at her closet and made a decision -- the dress had to go.
               
"I don't like it when stuff takes up space," said Basista.
               
So she went to her guidance counselor, Susie Gurrera, with an idea for high school.  Basista wanted to collect used dresses and hold a "Senior Prom Dress Drive."  Now, this spring, girls from any local school who need a little help with prom expenses can pick out a dress and accessories for free.
               
"It shouldn't depend on money," said Basista.
               
"It's a memory that they're always going to have and we want to help," said Gurrera.
               
Basista has collected 180 dresses and counting.
               
"There are a lot of moms that come in and just like I want this thing out of the closet," said Basista.
               
Now, Basista is ready for those dresses to start new memories and maybe even new calls to service.
               
"Community service is a really good thing to get involved with and everyone should reach out," said Basista.
               
And that's something that makes us all "Proud to be from Pittsburgh."  The dress drive held its main hours this week, but Basista said there's still plenty of time to come pick out a dress.
               
For more information, email Basista at d.basista13@hotmail.com