They growl and they give. The Bears of South Florida (BOSFL) are on a four-year run of incredible growth and the community is reaping the benefits. During their holiday party at Hunters on Dec. 1, they gave a total of $200,000 to 13 local LGBTQ groups.
“We had a monstrous year. I’m so proud of what we did,” BOSFL president Brock Boyd told the crowd.
While the numbers, $200,000 raised, 3,500 members and 25% growth, are impressive, Boyd told OutSFL that it’s what the numbers represent that truly hit home.
“Our mission is to have a safe and welcoming space for bears and their admirers. When we do that, everything aligns. People want to be part of that, people want to give.”
The money was raised from 73 events, each of which takes a team to plan, run the event the day of, and clean up. Funds have grown along with the organization. In 2021, they gave away $7,000.
Arts programs are the main beneficiaries, garnering $135,000. The effect of the money will be visible in the community throughout 2026.
“It feels so good to partner with them and lift them up and protect what they’re doing. It’s the best feeling in the world.”
Plays of Wilton (POW) received $20,000, and founder Ronnie Larsen expressed how important this money is.
“It’s so overwhelming. This community comes together, they see your work, they like what you do and they hand you a check. It’s so moving.”
Screenshot via OutSFL Live, YouTube.
