In 2011, I was asked to agree to an interview by a South Florida investigative reporter, Michele Gillen. Of course, I agreed, as she was – in the world of journalism – an iconic figure widely admired and respected by her readers and colleagues. We met one afternoon, conducted our interview, and later Michele asked to speak with me privately regarding an unrelated matter. She told me about her non-profit organization, Adopt A Bear (AAB), which was founded to help children who are the most vulnerable and exploited by providing the necessary tools to those first responders on the cutting edge of this human tragedy with the first line of defense – the means to comfort and hopefully heal these innocent souls who fall prey to this form of victimization. To my surprise, Michele asked me to be her “Law Enforcement Ambassador.” I jumped at the chance and immediately accepted her gracious offer. The rest was history; we became instant friends for life.

Michele passed away suddenly, unexpectedly, on June 11, 2021. She was one of my mentors, an amazing human being with an unwavering commitment to help others. She was my close friend and confidant. Little Bear Big Heart was born that night. Indeed these little bears have such big hearts specifically because they arise from the labor and vision of people who are kind, altruistic, loving and generous. These amazing folks, who often represent giving companies and organizations are the backbone of this non-profit. Michele counted on me to assist her in getting these precious bears into the arms of deserving children; I would never abandon this noble cause or dream of letting her down in any way.

Like Adopt A Bear, “Little Bear Big Heart” will focus on helping family court judges and first responders in Florida and around the nation to comfort abused, neglected, traumatized and trafficked children…one teddy bear at a time.