Food, fun, and presents from Santa were the order of the evening on Friday at the Big Brother Big Sister Christmas party, which was held from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Butler YMCA.

Jaime Cypher, the director of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Butler County (BBBS), said 35 youths age 6 to 17 who participate in BBBS plus their families and “bigs” were signed up for the party. She said 55 to 60 people total attended.

A catered buffet in the festively decorated Phillips Hall at the Y greeted the revelers, and various games for the “littles” kept the atmosphere merry.

“We also buy gifts for all the kids as well,” Cypher said.

She said parents are asked for a wish list for their child and $20 to $25 is spent on each youngster involved in the program.

The gifts are wrapped and magically ferried to Santa, who hands out each package with a hearty chuckle.

“This event is important because Christmastime is a good time to be together,” Cypher said.

Nakiah McClure, 13, said the third time is a charm for the big sisters she has been assigned, and she looked forward on Friday afternoon to spending the Christmas party with her “big,” Sera.

“She's really funny and nice,” Nakiah said. “If it wasn't for her I don't know where I would be. She's a big inspiration.”

Nakiah said last year's party was a memorable.

“It was really fun,” she said. “We played bingo and some other games.”

She received books and clothes at last year's party, but she didn't go for the gifts.

“It brings people together,” Nakiah said. “There are kids who do the Big Brother Big Sister program and don't know each other.”

Nakiah's mom, dad and brother attended the party with her on Friday night, along with her “Big Sister” Sera.

“She inspires me to work hard in life,” Nakiah said.