Have you ever wanted to know what a true legend looks like? Well, you've got a chance to get up close and personal with the original Lady Marmalade, herself: Patti LaBelle. Communities In Schools, Inc., the nation's largest dropout prevention organization, is pleased to announce that entertainment icon Patti LaBelle will participate in the 2008 Communities In Schools Lunch With A Leader online celebrity auction.

LaBelle is one of Lunch With A Leader's strongest supporters, and her fans across the country always make her offer of a personal lunch in her hometown, Philadelphia, one of the auction's top draws.

LaBelle joins dozens of other celebrities from entertainment, sports, business, and journalism to donate an hour of their time for lunch that will be auctioned off to the highest bidder on eBay from February 8-18. Lunch With A Leader provides a unique opportunity to personally connect with people who are leaders in their fields.

"Everyone has a Patti LaBelle song that is special to them, and we are honored that she has again chosen to participate in this year's Lunch With A Leader. Her generosity will help us in so many ways as we continue to help tomorrow's leaders stay in school and prepare for life," said Daniel J. Cardinali, president, Communities In Schools, Inc.

One of the country's most admired entertainers, LaBelle and her music have spanned the decades and remain fresh and an inspiration to younger entertainers. She is also a tireless advocate, dedicating her time on behalf of those suffering from diabetes and cancer.

To bid on a once-in-a-lifetime lunch with Patti LaBelle, or any of the other leaders participating in the 2007 Communities In Schools Lunch With A Leader, go to . All proceeds benefit Communities In Schools.

About Communities In Schools

Founded in 1977, Communities In Schools is the nation's largest dropout prevention organization, working in more than 3,400 K-12 public schools. Today, 1.2 million young people every year receive direct services through more than 200 Communities In Schools local affiliates in 27 states and the District of Columbia. Between 80-90 percent of our tracked students show improvement in academic achievement, attendance, behavior and promotion to the next grade level.