Pekin AMBUCS GoodBears

It was an idea presented to Pekin AMBUCS by Greg Neaveill back in 1982. And every Tuesday since then, two Pekin AMBUCS quietly enter the UnityPoint Health-Pekin (originally Pekin Hospital) pediatrics ward with light brown, furry bears in tow. These bears bring smiles to patients and parents alike throughout the pediatric ward.

Since its initiation in September of 1982, the AMBUCS GoodBear Program has been the "bearer" of get-well wishes to hospital patients of all ages. The AMBUCS GoodBear program was originally intended to include only children ages one through kindergarten, but was quickly expanded to include all patients young and old who might be on the pediatric ward on Tuesday evenings. Our goal has always been to reach out to members of our community and to make a difference, however small.

This is also one way that our members can become immediately involved with community service. Since its inception, more than 4,000 bears have been distributed through UnityPoint Health-Pekin (originally Pekin Hospital).

Dennis and Debbie Davison sent a GoodBear to Laura Bush at the White House before their personal visit. Mrs. Bush's response is below.