Build-A-Bear Foundation has named a new foundation president as it reveals its goal of donating 100,000 plush this year.
Rosalind Johnson, who also serves as Senior Vice President and Chief People Officer at Build-A-Bear, will step into the role of Foundation Board President.
One of our core values — give — has been a staple of who Build-A-Bear is and a pillar of the Build-A-Bear Foundation since its origination. As we celebrate the cherished hugs, creativity, and support we've been able to provide since the beginning, we look ahead to further deepening and expanding our programs. 2024 is a pivotal milestone for us as we continue our focus on children's literacy, bear donations, and heartfelt partnerships. These are all made possible by our teams and by every donation from our guests and associates, allowing us to continue spreading the joy of books and furry friends.
Last year, the Build-A-Bear Foundation committed to donating 1 million books by 2027 in partnership with First Book, provided more than 50,000 reading buddies to support young students, granted a wish per week through Make-A-Wish America, supported 10,000 families with First Responders Children’s Foundation, and opened the 18th Build-A-Bear Foundation Buddy Room at Shriner’s Children’s locations across the country.
Since its inception in 2004, the foundation has donated more than $22 million and 1.5 million plush to charitable causes around the world.
