Spirit Bears in the City follows in the footsteps of last year's initiative, Orcas in the City, which will continue to support the Lions Society of BC and the Canucks for Kids Fund. Last year, the project raised over $90,000 for the Canuck for Kids Fund. In anticipation for this year's exciting project, Marc and Helene Crawford, honorary co-chairs, attended the unveiling of four Spirit Bears, November 3, 2005 at the Vancouver Trade and Convention Centre.

The previewed bears included, a "Kromode" bear with a chrome finish and a copper salmon in his paw; a "Beach" bear with cutoffs, a loud shirt and a ticket to Hawaii in his pocket; and a "Love Mama and Papa" bear full of family images. These bears are model Kermode bears, which are referred to by the first nations people as Spirit Bears.

Spirit Bears in the City is a marriage between the corporate community, tourism, and BC. Corporations are encouraged to sponsor blank fiberglass bears, and work with BC artists to decorate them. Over 109 bears have been sold already.

The finished bears will be displayed around BC-Vancouver, Vancouver Island, Whistler, Prince George, Kitimat, Terrace, Prince Rupert and Port Edward-- from May to October of 2006. The bears will be auctioned in October 2006 at a Gala Dinner.

The funds raised for the Canucks for Kids Fund will continue to assist charities who support children's health and wellness, foster the development of grassroots hockey, and facilitate and encourage education in British Columbia. Projects like Spirit Bears in the City make it possible for the Canucks for Kids Fund to give back to the community.