As Dream Center Dallas prepares to host its annual Back-to-School event this Saturday, the organization's mission continues from a historic South Dallas campus thoughtfully restored to serve the community.

Dallas-based Merriman Anderson Architects (MAA) provided architectural and interior design services for the restoration of the Historic Gospel Lighthouse Church, originally built in 1948, preserving the landmark in accordance with the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties. The building is part of Dream Center Dallas' redevelopment initiative, which transformed the historic campus into a hub for education, outreach and community programs.

Today, the campus features classrooms, a commercial kitchen, offices, a media studio, a food pantry and more than 15,000 square feet of gathering space, supporting Dream Center Dallas' year-round efforts to serve local families.

That mission continues on Saturday, Aug. 1, beginning at 10 a.m., when Dream Center Dallas hosts its annual Back-to-School event at 1900 S. Ewing Ave., Dallas, TX 75216. Children will receive free backpacks, school supplies and brand-new shoes on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last. The event will also include games, food and family-friendly activities.

Community members interested in supporting the event can still volunteer or make a donation.

Volunteer: https://www.dreamcenterdallas.com/events

Donate: https://dreamcenterdallas-bloom.kindful.com/