The GOC Bears

Don't let your silence drown out their cries!

Guardians of the Children (GOC) chapters use teddy bears as a symbol of comfort and security for children who have experienced abuse or trauma.

When GOC members meet a child they’re supporting—whether it’s during a court appearance, a first introduction, or a special event—they often present the child with a bear. The bear isn’t just a toy; it becomes a tangible reminder that they are not alone, and that they have a whole group of “Guardians” ready to stand beside them.

The idea is simple but powerful:

• Comfort in scary moments – The bear is something soft to hold during court, interviews, or difficult days.

• Symbol of support – It reminds the child of the strength and protection they have from the group.

• A personal connection – It helps break the ice and start building trust between the child and the Guardians.

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History of the GOC Bears

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The teddy bear tradition in Guardians of the Children began as a way to give children something immediately comforting in an otherwise frightening situation.

When GOC first formed in 2006, the founders realized that while their presence as bikers could be empowering to children, it could also feel intimidating at first. The leather, the patches, the motorcycles—those can look scary to a child who’s already been through trauma.

The solution was simple but brilliant: bring a teddy bear to every first meeting with a child.

• The bear acted as a bridge between the child and the Guardian, softening the moment and breaking down fear.

• It became a symbol of safety—the child knew, “As long as I have this bear, I have people who will protect me.”

• Over time, it also became a ritual—every GOC child gets a bear, and it stays with them through court dates, counseling, and healing.

Now, in many chapters, members keep bears on their bikes or in event trailers so they’re always ready to give one when a new child comes into the fold. Some kids still have their GOC bear years later, even as teenagers or adults, because it represents the moment their life began to feel safe again.

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GOC Mooresville Bears

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GOC Mooresville Bears are special because each one goes on a year-long journey before reaching its forever home. Every year, our chapter selects a member to “care for” the bear as if it were their own child.

Throughout the year, the Guardian takes the bear everywhere: on motorcycle rides, to events, into the community, and even on visits to other GOC chapters. Along the way, they fill the bear with love, capturing memories in photos and sharing its adventures.

When the year ends that bear is eligible to welcome a new child into our chapter, that child receives the bear along with a photo album documenting its journey. The album shows the road the bear traveled to reach them, and every mile represents the dedication, passion, and love poured into our cause.

These bears carry more than stuffing—they carry the heart of a Guardian.