Our 2019 Match Holiday Party
It was the largest attendance ever for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas’ 2019 match holiday party held at the Austin Central Public Library. Over 500 Bigs, Littles and their families gathered for this marquee party to ring in the holiday season.
Many attendees sported Santa hats, ugly sweaters and reindeer antlers as they gathered in the library’s special event center to enjoy gifts, games and a photo booth.
“It’s one of my favorite BBBS experiences of the year,” said Brent Fields, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas. “It is so great to have the opportunity to bring all of our families together in one place to celebrate this sacred partnership at such a special time of the year.”
Matches and their families explored the many levels of the library at this festive after-hours event. It was also a special time for Bigs and Littles to visit with their match support specialists in person. “I loved observing Bigs, Littles, and families sharing the space together,” said Nick Vincent, match support specialist. “Seeing families and Bigs taking pictures together in front of the Christmas tree, playing games with each other, or picking out presents, I was reminded of the collaborative effort that each are making to trust, support, and commit to one another within the match and to really create a sense of community.”
In addition to enjoying the library, families and matches had time to take silly photos in the photo booth, and connect with other matches while playing many of the board and card games provided. Groups could be seen playing UNO, checkers or Connect Four, to name a few.
Every child in attendance was able to select a gift from an amazing display of donated games, toys, and jewelry. Many use this opportunity to “shop” for family members. One Little Brother excitedly told his match specialist, “I got to pick out some jewelry for my mom!”
“With the generosity of the Austin Public Library and our numerous supporters, we’re able to provide gifts, activities and an amazing experience to kick off the holidays for our families,” said Joe Strychalski, VP of Programs at BBBS. “It’s just so cool to see our matches building their relationships, connecting with BBBS staff, and having a great time at this event. We’re so grateful to everyone who helps make this possible!”
Thanks to those who donated gifts for our Littles: AECOM, Comcast, DPR Construction, GoDaddy, Kendra Scott, O’Connell Robertson, Texas Medical Association, and WikiBuy.
Also contributing gifts and volunteering their time were: Capital Metro, Chase Bank, US Micro Products, and the Young Men’s Service League – Westlake.
Thank you all for creating such a meaningful and memorable celebration, one that will be remembered, and treasured, for years to come.
See event photos here