Thuggy Bear Cares

Thuggy Bear Cares To encourage and facilitate youth of Oregon to get involved, become active and be successful in extra

To promote Thuggy Bear sponsored sport events, community out reach programs and partnerships with other local nonprofits and business in our community.

SHOES FOR KIDS. After our event at Scio High School, we were once again struck by the reality that many students still g...
05/12/2025

SHOES FOR KIDS.

After our event at Scio High School, we were once again struck by the reality that many students still go without essentials—this time, it was shoes. We received a list of kids in need and filled it. Sixteen pairs of shoes for sixteen young lives.

I’m so glad I can take LB with me on these trips. “We lead through deeds. It is important that my children and other youth witness my work so they too can give of themselves to others in need. That is a calling.”

I hope that calling lives on, in our family’s values, and in every step we take for someone else.

We made another delivery to Scio school district to support girls in need.

Another exciting charity drop-off.
50 pairs of socks
50 pairs of leggings
50 pairs of panties
Boxes and boxes of feminine hygein products.

When I show up to serve, whether it’s delivering shoes to kids in need or building hygiene closets in rural schools, it’...
05/12/2025

When I show up to serve, whether it’s delivering shoes to kids in need or building hygiene closets in rural schools, it’s not just about charity. It’s about identity. As Batman once said, “It’s not who I am underneath, but what I do that defines me.” I believe in leading through deeds. It’s important that my children and other young people witness this work firsthand, so they too can learn what it means to give of themselves for others. That’s not just a habit. It’s a calling.

This calling is rooted in something deeper. Matthew 25:35 says, “I was hungry and you gave me something to eat.” I carry those words on my flesh—marked into my skin as a reminder to myself and a witness to others. I serve the Lord. He works through me. I don’t advertise my religion, but I live it quietly through action.

It began with my grandmother. She arranged for me to feed the people without a second thought, to see people with dignity. I ran from those lessons as a youth, but I retained them and now bless my sons with this passion.

Officer Chris Burbey,I’ve always been someone who believes in spreading the good news—and brother, there’s a lot of good...
04/17/2025

Officer Chris Burbey,

I’ve always been someone who believes in spreading the good news—and brother, there’s a lot of good to say about you.

Yesterday, my son and I had the privilege of visiting the Albany Police Department to show our support for our favorite officer. It brought back memories of when we first crossed paths back in 2003, when I had the honor of coaching you at South Albany High. Even then, I saw the grit, heart, and integrity that still define the man you’ve become. Watching you grow into the role of a community servant, a father, and a role model has been nothing short of inspiring.

Every time you show up for this city, every time you pour yourself into a fundraiser—whether it’s selling pies or rallying support—I see a father doing what it takes for his children. You don’t just wear the badge; you live out the values of service, leadership, and heart. You've become a father others can look to as an example, and a community figure people trust and admire.

I know life hasn't always been easy. Losing your father was a heavy blow, and I’ve seen how that loss shaped the strength and compassion you carry today. I hope you know how proud I am of the man you’ve become. I’ll keep telling you that every chance I get.

I'm especially proud that you’ll be opening our Bulldogs Run to Learn event this July. There’s no better person to kick it off than someone who has lived what we’re teaching: service, community, and the power of making good decisions. Your presence, your words, and your example will leave a lasting impression on the young men running that day. Thank you for standing up, showing up, and giving back.

Oh—and in true Burbey fashion, yesterday we picked up three pies from your kid's fundraiser. Then we turned around and donated three slices right back to you and the night shift crew at APD. Just a small way of saying thank you.

Stand tall, Burbs. I’m always here for you. Always in your corner. But tell me this… how are the legs holding up? You think you can still carry the rock?

With appreciation and brotherly love,

11/16/2024

Big game this weekend! West Albany is set to face Mt. View from Bend on Friday night. Over the past 7 years, Thuggy Bear Cares has been proud to support both teams with post-game meals and recruiting services.

It’s a special matchup for me—my good buddy and Raider Brother, Aaron Chambers, has a son, Mason, who is the starting quarterback for Mt. View. Mason is a senior, while my son, a freshman quarterback for West, will be bundled up on the sidelines, soaking in the experience and braving the cold.

I also have the honor of coaching freshman football at West, and my great friend Ryan Doty, who used to coach football at Mt. View, is now the head basketball coach there. This Christmas, Thuggy Bear Cares is teaming up with Coach Doty and Mt. View's basketball team to host a Christmas brunch for families at a local homeless shelter.

I can’t wait for Saturday—not just to see how the game plays out but also to celebrate the incredible young athletes we’ve been privileged to support. Thuggy Bear Cares is proud to be part of Oregon’s high school sports journey. Best of luck to both teams this Friday!

11/14/2024

Basketball Time

Subject: A Call for Help

Dear Friends, Supporters, and Fellow Tigers,

I hope this letter finds you well and thriving. It’s always an honor to reach out to those who share a passion for making a difference. Today, I write not just as a founder of Thuggy Bear Cares but as someone driven by a mission to uplift young athletes and help them achieve their dreams.

Many of you may already know about the Thuggy Bear Cares (TBC) program, which I started to recruit high school athletes into college football programs and develop the next generation of coaches. Over the years, TBC has helped countless athletes achieve their goals, grow as individuals, and take their talents to the next level. It’s been a labor of love and a testament to what we can accomplish together.

Now, I’m embarking on a new challenge—launching a college basketball recruiting program. My goal is to extend the impact of TBC by helping high school basketball players find opportunities to succeed, much like we have done with football. However, I’ll be honest with you: I’m stepping into unfamiliar territory. My connections in the basketball world are limited, and my knowledge of the recruiting landscape is a work in progress.

This is where I humbly ask for your help. If you have insights, connections, or advice on how to navigate the world of college basketball recruiting, I would be deeply grateful. Whether it’s pointing me toward the right contacts, sharing strategies, or simply offering guidance, your support would mean the world.

I’m reaching out to anyone who can lend a hand, whether you’re part of the Tiger family, a fellow coach, an alum, or simply someone passionate about helping young athletes succeed. If you have any leads or ideas, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You can contact me directly at Thuggybearcreas.com.

Thank you for taking the time to read this and for being part of a community that inspires me every day. Let’s keep building on what we’ve started—for the kids, for the game, and for the future.

With gratitude and determination,

Thuggy Bear Cares - College Exploration and Readiness (CER) ProgramDear Parents and Guardians,We are excited to invite y...
11/14/2024

Thuggy Bear Cares - College Exploration and Readiness (CER) Program

Dear Parents and Guardians,

We are excited to invite your student to our upcoming third session of the College Exploration and Readiness (CER) Program hosted by Thuggy Bear Cares, in partnership with the YMCA. This session is part of a series dedicated to helping students prepare for college and future success.

Date: November 17th

Time: 5:30 PM

Location: Mid Valley Albany YMCA

This month’s session will focus on three critical areas:

Personal Finance

Understanding budgeting and managing finances as a student.

Exploring available financial resources to support education.

Film Study Techniques

Techniques for reviewing game footage to improve athletic skills.

Developing the discipline needed for self-review and self-improvement.

Creating and Editing Highlight Films

How to create a highlight reel that stands out to college coaches.

Tips for showcasing athletic skills effectively.

Each topic will include an interactive discussion, a computer or video presentation, and hands-on activities. We’ll also have handouts and additional resources for students to take home, as well as refreshments during the session.

Program Goals
Our goal is to equip students with the tools they need to succeed in college and beyond. By the end of this course, they will have completed important steps such as college applications, financial aid forms, and an understanding of the resources available to them.

Thank you for your support and encouragement as your student works toward their future goals. If you have any questions about the CER program or upcoming sessions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Best Regards,
Garry Barnes
President, Thuggy Bear Cares
Email: [email protected]

Address

Jefferson, OR
97321

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