Pexels/George Zografidis
Since 2015, White Bear Lake has been host to Bear Boating, a nonprofit organization run entirely by volunteers. The organization provides complimentary excursions for fishing and sightseeing trips from June through August on White Bear Lake for seniors (age 60 and older), active duty military members, veterans and individuals with disabilities. The Bear Boating pontoon goes out three times a day, five days a week; it holds 12 passengers and is wheelchair and walker accessible. In 2022, it took a total of 145 trips, each with a volunteer cap’n and two first mates. Volunteers contribute time and expertise to help create memories for all their guests.
Dave Ryan, president and head cap’n says, “Bear Boating could not be the successful nonprofit it has been without the support of the White Bear Lake community and our more than 90 volunteers. We’re looking forward to an even bigger year in 2023, and we’re always looking for more volunteers.” To learn more, visit bearboating.org.
In celebration of the dedicated volunteers that uplift this community, the Greater White Bear Lake Community Foundation spotlights a noteworthy citizen or initiative of the White Bear Lake area in each issue. Learn more at gwblcf.org.
