The Austin Junior Forum Teddy Bear Program provides small Bears & Dalmatians for local public safety agencies to give to children involved in traumatic events. These stuffed animals have a calming effect, providing comfort and something tangible to hold during times of crisis. In recent years, more than 5,000 children have been involved in crisis situations, and the numbers continue to rise with the growth of our city. Austin’s Emergency Services, including the Austin Police Department, Austin Fire Department, Travis County Sheriff’s Office, and Austin-Travis County Emergency Medical Services, have relied on AJF to provide these stuffed animals for more than 20 years.

Austin Junior Forum began the Teddy Bear Program in the 1980s. The first Teddy Bear Program event was a picnic where donations of stuffed animals were collected by AJF. Today, AJF hosts events to raise money to purchase stuffed animals for children in crisis. Over the years, Teddy Bear Program events have evolved to include 5K fun runs and celebrity bear silent auctions. In 2008, AJF partnered with the South Austin Area Motorcycle Enthusiasts to host the first annual Bikerz Bearz & Dogz benefit ride to raise funds to support this valuable community service program. While Teddy Bear Program events have taken on many different facets over the years, it remains a steadfast project to which AJF members gladly dedicate themselves each year.