While misconceptions abound in the LGBTQ community about our bear brethren, be it known that they are as diverse as the rainbow flag that was designed as a symbol of pride by Gilbert Baker in 1978 to represent us all.

When it comes to bears, no two are exactly alike. There are muscle bears, stocky bears, blond bears, black bears, polar bears, brown bears and of course teddy bears. There are also famous bears like Goldilocks and the Three Bears, Winnie the Pooh, Gentle Ben, the NFL’s Chicago Bears, Gummy Bears, Baloo from the Jungle Book, Yogi Bear, Smokey the Bear, Nick Pulos, B.J. and the Bear, Paddington Bear, Bigfoot (likely a bear), Ursa Major, the cast of Disney’s Country Bear Jamboree and the Bad News Bears. Even the film The Wizard of Oz paid homage to bears in the classic line, “Lions and tigers and bears, oh my!” But the Care Bears, also known in this article as the Bears of South Florida, are arguably the most altruistic.

“There is a large spectrum of bears,” said Bears of South Florida (BOSFL) President Brock Boyd. Our community is wonderfully diverse. We have bears, admirers, and folks who may not identify strictly as either but love the inclusive, welcoming vibes we create. Within the bear world, there’s a whole spectrum: chubby bears, muscle bears, polar bears, cubs, otters, and wolves — each identity helps people feel seen and celebrated. Personally, I’m an admirer/wolf.”

With a membership that exceeds more than 3,400 members and 200 dedicated volunteers participating in 60 tri-county LGBTQ+ fundraisers annually, the Bears of South Florida organization strives to ensure that members and their admirers are provided with a safe and welcoming space for all those seeking fellowship, membership and a community to call their own.

“Relocating to South Florida four years ago was a big step for me, and honestly, I wasn’t sure I would fit in. But from the moment I connected with the Bears of South Florida, I felt an immediate and genuine sense of belonging. They welcomed and accepted me for exactly who I am, said volunteer Matt Conti. “It's been so much more than just a fun social group; the chance to volunteer and raise funds for local LGBTQ+ organizations has truly helped me discover my purpose here. BOSFL isn't just busy with events; they're genuinely making a profound difference – not just in the lives of members like me, but for the entire LGBTQ+ community. I'm incredibly grateful to be a part of it."

The group is also committed to breaking stereotypes placed on gay men to obtain and maintain unrealistic body types. “We make sure every BOSFL event is a true safe space. Everyone is welcome — no judgment, no body shaming, no cliques. We do not tolerate behavior that makes anyone feel less than worthy. More than raising funds or throwing big parties, our real mission is to make sure everyone leaves feeling what I feel every time: that they belong,” Boyd said.

It is through the commitment and dedication of the organization’s members that the Bears of South Florida have collectively clocked thousands of volunteer hours each year to raise money for a variety of LGBTQ+ non-profits including Equality Florida, Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida (GMCSF), Island City Stage, Plays of Wilton (POW), Pride Center at Equality Park, Safe Schools, SAGE of South Florida, South Florida Pride Bands (SFPB), Sun Serve and Trans Social.

These organizations have been funded in part through the BOSFL’s Grizzly Giving Program. According to Boyd, the organization was able to provide $100,000 in grants to 12 local LGBTQ nonprofits in 2024. “The goal for 2025 is to award $200,000,” he said. Additionally, the Bears of South Florida’s Donor Matching Program has announced that an anonymous corporate donor has provided up to $50,000 in donor matches in individual and small business donations until September 30, 2025.

While the Bears of South Florida have a robust events calendar that offers a variety of monthly fundraisers including pool parties at The Grand Resort & Spa, Solstice at Wilton and the Ed Lugo Resort, along with movie nights and Bowling with the Bears, they are also planning for the future. “Looking ahead, our goals are clear: we’re focused on strong succession planning to keep our mission thriving for years to come. We want to grow our sponsorship program, expand health and wellness education, and build our membership so even more people can experience the connection, support, and joy of this community,” Boyd said.

As the organization's president, Boyd has been hands-on when it comes to operational duties. But there has been a learning curve that he has welcomed.

“Serving as president has taught me the power of grace, patience, and listening. BOSFL has pushed me beyond my comfort zone in the best ways — personally and professionally. Being in service to a nonprofit I care so deeply about helps me to let go of my own problems and focus on something bigger than myself. It’s humbling and fulfilling all at once,” Boyd said.

In Boyd’s mind the Bears of South Florida are special for a reason. “Without a doubt, it’s our people. BOSFL is 100% volunteer-run — over 200 volunteers, 12 coordinators, four standing committees, and a dedicated board. It’s the passion and dedication of these folks that make the magic happen. People want to be part of this mission because they know their voices matter and their work makes a difference,” Boyd said.

Indeed, the volunteers of BOSFL stand in solidarity as they serve the LGBTQ community. Each knowing that they are truly making a difference when so many are struggling.

“It’s a great organization from the community and for the community,” said member Mario Trottier. "BOSFL gives back so much to all that makes it impossible for me not to be part of it. But mostly, I truly enjoy seeing how much it has grown since the days I was a board member in its first year. There was no question in my mind, when I returned to Florida after a 13-year hiatus, I wouldn't get re-involved in this organization. To top it off, it gives me a wonderful way to meet the community.”

For many, the Bears of South Florida may well be superheroes when it comes to their efforts to raise funds for those in greatest need within the LGBTQ community. As for Boyd, he looks onto a fellow BOSFL board member as his own hero.

“Harvey Shapiro is my hero — I always call him the godfather of the Bears. At my first event in 2018, my social anxiety kicked in, and I was ready to leave after five minutes. Harvey stopped me at the door, handed me a serving spoon, and got me volunteering. That small gesture changed everything — I found connection through service. Harvey later invited me to board meetings, became my mentor and friend, and continues to challenge and inspire me more than anyone else in our organization,” Boyd said.

For the Bears of South Florida, it is truly more blessed to give than to receive.

To learn more about the Bears of South Florida, apply for a grant or to make a donation, visit bosfl.org.