Big Brothers Big Sisters hosts 1st annual Winter Wonderland Holiday Celebration

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The holiday season is in full swing, and one community organization is hoping to make it special for hometown families. Big Brothers Big Sisters held their 1st annual Winter Wonderland Holiday Celebration on Saturday, Dec. 14. 

"We have a big community of thousands of young people that we serve. Hundreds of families. Hundreds of mentors and were gathered here today to celebrate mentorship and celebrate the holidays," said Neil Willenson, president and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Milwaukee. 

There were holiday themed activities, fames, and photo opportunities. More than a thousand gifts were donated for kids to choose from. 

"Every single participant, all the kids, through the generosity of thousands of donors is gonna receive two brand new toys," said Willenson. "The guardians are getting some gifts, the mentors are getting some gifts too."

Many of the kids at the event are youth are a part of the organization's waitlist for a mentor. 

"Noah and Jenna have actually been on a wait list now for a couple years but Big Brothers Big Sisters has taken the initiative to involve them in so many events that they don’t even feel that they’re on a waiting list. They’re involved in so much," said Hager Mahmoud, parent. 

Events like this give them the opportunity to still be supported by the organization this season. 

NFL veteran Travis Beckum also made an appearance. 

The organization continues to search for mentors who want to get involved. 

"Sadly, for Big Brothers Big Sisters here in Milwaukee, we have a waiting list of nearly 500 kids who are currently waiting for a mentor. We need more funding, and we need more kind, caring stable safe adults to raise their hand and say I want to be a mentor and help a child," said Willenson.