A Tradition of Giving

Originally launched by the Junior League of Las Vegas in 1987 as Adopt-A-Bear, the Holiday Bear Project was founded on a simple belief: every child deserves the joy and magic of receiving gifts during the holiday season. For more than three decades, the program has supported children across the Las Vegas Valley who may otherwise go without both essential items and holiday surprises.

How the Program Works

Each holiday season, JLLV partners with at-risk schools throughout the Clark County School District. School administrators identify students who would benefit most from the program, and JLLV volunteers visit campuses to learn each child’s clothing sizes, favorite colors, and holiday wishes. Many of these students lack basic necessities, such as properly fitting shoes, warm outerwear, or a book of their own.

Once selected, each child becomes a “bear,” and members of the Junior League of Las Vegas adopt them for the season. Members receive a personalized list and shop for items that reflect both the child’s needs and wishes.

What Each Child Receives

Every “bear” receives 10 wrapped gifts, typically including:

• Clothing and shoes

• Socks, underwear, and pajamas

• Toys

• An age-appropriate book

These carefully selected gifts are designed to provide comfort, dignity, and joy.

Delivering the Magic

All gifts are collected at JLLV’s annual Holiday Coffee, where members come together to celebrate the impact of their collective generosity. The wrapped gifts are then delivered to parents at each participating school, allowing families to place them under the tree for Christmas morning.