Good News Bears (GNB), the beloved Livermore-based nonprofit that has been gifting comfort through teddy bears since 1996, has announced a major leadership transition. The all-volunteer charity, known for delivering “stuffed love” to people in need, has named longtime member and local teacher Lisa Kitzmann as its new Chairbear.
Lisa, who has used teddy bears extensively in her classroom as reading buddies and sources of comfort, brings both professional and personal passion to the role. “Teddy bears have a special way of making people feel safe,” she shared. “I’m excited to bring that same comfort to our community through Good News Bears.”
Outgoing Chairbear Jeanie Haigh, who led the organization for over 20 years, helped GNB provide an average of 12,000 stuffed animals annually to children and adults facing crises. Jeanie, who recently moved out of state, will continue to support the mission as Vice Chairbear. “It’s hard for me to step down as gifting stuffed love was my passion, but Lisa has energy and passion for the mission and is doing a great job rebuilding the organization,” Jeanie said.
Other longtime board members stepping down include Vice Chairbear Martha Espinoza, Secrebeary Joan Dickinson, Treasurebear Michelle Jess, and bookkeeper Bill Haag. Their efforts over the years have been central to GNB’s success. Stepping in with new energy are Secrebeary Angie Suttles, Treasurebear Tuan Tran, and Gifting Bear Jen Wilner.
Despite pandemic-era challenges, Good News Bears never stopped delivering stuffed animals to first responders, healthcare agencies, and those in need. The organization is now working to return to pre-pandemic gifting levels, ensuring thousands more people can receive the comfort of a teddy bear hug each year.
Community members can support GNB by following Good News of Livermore on Facebook, where updates about events and fundraisers are shared. With fresh leadership and a strong legacy, Good News Bears continues to prove that a simple teddy bear can bring comfort, healing, and joy to those who need it most.
