Moose International holds 125th annual convention in Milw.

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- About 8,000 members of Moose International convened in Milwaukee over Memorial Day weekend for their 125th annual International Convention.

The organization has several missions, including serving seniors and communities, as well as caring for at risk children in need.

“They’re here for meeting and training that International is providing,” said Junior Governor Keith Balash.

Members of Moose International come from all over the country and even the world. They are commemorating a special year in the organization.

“This is the 125th meeting of International and the 100th anniversary of Mooseheart," says Balash

“Moose International also is known to support underprivileged children in education and in residence in Mooseheart, Illinois. It’s a self contained community and these children are given the opportunity they otherwise won’t have in life," Balash notes.

The group is now making a great contribution to Milwaukee.

“8,000 attendees and 18,000 room nights. The economic impact of the group is about $10 million to $11 million for the community," says Brent Foerster of Visit Milwaukee.

Foerster is elated the group helped business boom this weekend.

“Business-type events usually don’t take place over the holiday weekend. This group is really filling up the city. Hotels are sold out, restaurants are going to be full," adds Foerster.

For Moose International member Gary Lininger, the trip was a hit in many ways.

"It's pretty neat to some here. We went to Harley place," says Lininger.

Members were excited to see the attractions and entertainment Milwaukee has to offer, all while learning, socializing, and promoting awareness.

This is the first time Moose International has had a convention in Milwaukee since 1944. It’s set to wrap up on Wednesday, May 29th.