The Kiwanis Club of Lynchburg, founded in 1920, has a long history of fun community activities in addition to serving and educating. Back in 1986 for Lynchburg's Bicentennial the Club held a Teddy Bear parade commemorating the milestone. Starting at E.C. Glass High School proceeding to Miller Park, this event became an annual tradition and was well received for 25 years. Several hundred kids and families participated each year in the contests, refreshments, categories for kids to showcase their bears and of course a parade. The last parade was held in 2018 but with the community and club growing and changing, the Kiwanis Club plans to bring it back in 2025! In order to reintroduce a new generation to this event and its history, the Kiwanians are holding a Teddy Bear event, though not a parade this year.

On Friday April 26 the community is invited to join us at the Lynchburg Hillcats ballpark. Children 12 and under who bring a Teddy Bear will get a complimentary admission. Parents and guardians can purchase tickets on our website or on our Facebook page and register any youth attending. This is a general seating event. Our partners at Amazement Square will be on hand to hold a Teddy Bear “Clinic” to patch up any bears needing attention. The Kiwanis table will have information about the event in 2025 and a few gifts (while supplies last). A very special guest from the forest will be throwing out the first pitch! In addition, the club will be holding its quarterly member social at the park. We have a designated allotted area for members, their spouses and guests, all are welcome. We would encourage the community to come out to the ballpark and help us bring back the Teddy Bear Parade and cheer on the Hillcats.
Individuals and businesses can purchase tickets and or get involved by contacting The Kiwanis Club of Lynchburg at buildingblocks.lynchburg@gmail.com or go to www.kiwanislynchburgva.com  for more information.  Follow us on Facebook (facebook.com/lynchburgkiwanis), LinkedIn and Instagram (@kiwaniscluboflynchburg).