For the past decade, Lambda Chi Alpha has been celebrating the holidays with the wide-eyed children of the Boys and Girls Club of Ames.

Lambda Chi Christmas, an anticipated event for the children who attend as well as the members of Lambda Chi Alpha who participate, has become a popular tradition.

The special night of fun will take place Dec. 5 and will include a holiday meal, board games and a special appearance from Santa Claus himself.

Ron Chieves, program director at the Boys and Girls Club of Ames, said children from the ages of seven to 12 have the opportunity to attend the special event.

He said the club limits the attendance number to 30 children to offer it as more of an incentive for good behavior throughout the year.

Their behavior is monitored to see which children gain the privilege to go, Chieves said.

“Just like Santa, we look for who’s being naughty and nice.” he said.

Tony Phillips, vice president of Lambda Chi Alpha, said members of the fraternity look forward to the annual event every December just as much as the children do.

“It’s a way for us to have hands-on interaction with the community and a way for us to enjoy the Christmas season with kids who are underprivileged,” Phillips said.

Chieves said the Boys and Girls Club of Ames looks forward to working with students and campus organizations.

“I think it’s a vital part of the community,” Chieves said.

“We really enjoy fostering the bond between ISU and the club.”

Phillips said the children receive gifts from Santa Claus and his helper at the end of the night, but he doesn’t think that is the best part of the night for the children who attend.

Chieves agrees. He said children love playing games with the students and some just want to sit around and listen to stories.

“Every year, they obviously enjoy getting the gifts,” Phillips said.

“But spending time with us is even more fun.”