Chicago Bears Community Report Outlines Focus On Last Social Impact

The Chicago Bears have released their 2024–25 Community Report, outlining a comprehensive year of outreach focused on youth development, food security, volunteerism, and civic engagement across the Chicagoland area.

The report reflects the organisation’s commitment to creating lasting social impact beyond football, using its platform to uplift communities through targeted philanthropic and support programmes.

Commenting on working with their community, Kevin Warren, president and CEO of the Chicago Bears, said: “Our role in the community is not just a responsibility but an honour as we pursue excellence both on and off the field.”

“We appreciate the significant change the Chicago Bears continue to foster through our outreach and philanthropic activities, and we are inspired by the dedication of our fans.

“Together, we aim to create lasting positive transformations for future generations,” he said.

Youth engagement:

The Bears delivered 130 free Mini Monsters Clinics, engaging more than 17,000 children with football drills and lessons on healthy nutrition, hydration, and physical activity.

Girls’ sport supported through flag football:

Over 5,000 girls across 154 high school teams participated in flag football programmes backed by the Bears. Since launching with 22 teams in 2021, the initiative helped the sport gain official recognition by the Illinois High School Association in February 2024.

Tackling hunger:

Through the Lineup Against Hunger initiative, the Bears provided over 4,000 Thanksgiving meals to families in North Lawndale. The club partnered with the Firehouse Community Arts Center, which also runs youth violence prevention through arts and community events.

Several flag football clinics for children:

The inaugural Monsters Flag programme hosted 20 clinics for children aged 11 to 17, providing 90-minute sessions on flag football skills, teamwork, and personal development.

Hundreds of player appearances:

Current and former Bears players made 238 appearances throughout the year, collectively contributing more than 470 hours of hands-on service and engagement with fans, schools, and local groups.

Bears Huddle addressing local needs:

The Bears Huddle programme mobilised fans, ticket holders, and local residents to volunteer 991 hours addressing local needs and participating in charity events.

Combating the cold during Winter:

In its 36th year, the team’s Coat Drive run in partnership with Jewel-Osco, The Salvation Army, and Shur-Way Movers collected over 24,000 coats to help Chicagoans stay warm during winter.

Military engagement: 

The club hosted over 2,500 military service members and their families during training camp and related events, recognising and supporting those who serve.

Hospital visits bringing comfort:

Bears players and team mascot Staley Da Bear visited 100 hospital rooms, offering support and smiles to patients and their families.

Millions invested through Bears Care:

The organisation’s charitable arm, Bears Care, invested more than $2.8 million into programmes focused on education, athletics, health awareness, and cancer-related support, particularly in breast and ovarian cancer care.

The 2024–25 Community Report highlights the Chicago Bears’ evolving role as a civic leader, demonstrating how a professional sports team can deliver meaningful change off the field.

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