Lake Charles, Louisiana established a language bank capable of providing interpreters for 20 foreign languages. All participants are volunteers who offer to help free of charge in case of emergencies arising because of the considerable numbers of foreign visitors in the area. Smooth operation of the language bank depends on the following: (1) an organizational and administrative committee; (2) volunteers who know English as well as one or more foreign languages and offer their free services; (3) a comprehensive file of volunteer information and languages and a file enumerating services, without volunteer information; and (4) any community agency to act as a 24-hour clearinghouse. It is extremely important to assure volunteer privacy. In establishing a language bank, information on need should be gathered from police departments, hospitals, tourist bureaus, the chamber of commerce, local school board, and other sources. Local news media can help gather data and recruit volunteers. Information disseminated about the program should be simple and clear, and a laminated handout sheet is very useful. Circulation should be as wide as possible. An informal initial meeting for volunteers, staff, and organizers and periodic meetings for exchange of experience and support should be scheduled. Benefits in Lake Charles include increased community self-awareness and goodwill. (MSE)