Fifth Annual Bears in the Air Kickoff Party Dec. 2 at South Bend International Airport

The fifth annual Bears in the Air kickoff party takes place at South Bend International Airport (SBN) on Dec. 2, from 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. The event is open to the public. Admission is one newly purchased teddy bear or a $10 donation. A teddy bear will be delivered to children in local hospitals to offer companionship and smiles during a difficult time, and the money collected will be donated directly to the Robert L. Miller, Sr. Veteran’s Center. 

Over 300 expected attendees will mingle inside the terminal enjoying music by the South Bend Symphony Orchestra Brass Trio, hors d’oeuvres, one complimentary beverage from the cash bar, and will be entered into a drawing for door prizes from local businesses to include dinner certificates, overnight hotel stays, tickets to sporting events, golf and more. Roundtrip airfare certificates from Allegiant Travel Company, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines complete the door prize offerings.

In an effort to raise additional funds for the Bears in the Air program, Dimension Global Travel has donated a Grand Prize Getaway to Los Cabos, Mexico. Attendees will be able to purchase an unlimited number of raffle tickets for $5 each. The winner will receive roundtrip airfare for two and all-inclusive accommodations at the Hyatt Ziva.

“I am confident that the generosity of our donors will make our fifth year the best yet,” said Mike Daigle, SBN executive director. “Bears in the Air brings our community closer together. Collectively, we not only bring a sense of comfort to the youth but also impact the lives of those who have graciously served our country.

For those unable to attend the party, a “Bear Den” inside the terminal has been created to collect newly purchased teddy bears through December 21, 2016. Travelers along with the general public are invited to donate a newly purchased teddy bear. Teddy bears are also available for purchase in the airport’s gift shop.

The program has generated over 3500 teddy bears that have been donated to children in area hospitals and $22,000 to the Robert L. Miller, Sr. Veteran’s Center in downtown South Bend. This year’s goal is to collect 1500 bears and also an increased monetary donation to the Veteran’s Center.