In February of 2002, a group of passionate individuals put together an idea for a silent auction of teddy bears that would benefit the Matthew Shepard Foundation. Many local Denver notables designed and dressed teddy bears and held a silent auction that raised just over five thousand dollars for the MSF. In the years since, the event has become the largest annual fundraiser for the organization, with attendees from around the nation.

Joan Jett Bear ©l-word.com

The event has grown to include many special autographed bears and other items from celebrities, including Elton John, Drew Barrymore, Jane Lynch, Dolly Parton, Liza Minnelli, Melissa Etheridge, Lady Gaga and many others. This year special custom made bear for Jennifer Bears was added to the silent auction.

A few years back Jennifer attended the gala as a presenter but this year she was honored with “Bear To Make A Difference” Award for her commitment to erasing hate. “Jennifer has distinguished herself as a tremendous ally to the LGBT community with her highly visible support for equality,” said Judy Shepard recently about The L Word actress and a vocal supporter of the LGBT community.