Doris Davies

Doris Davies was a lifelong advocate for the children of Victorville, dedicating much of her life to enriching their lives through education and recreation. Her legacy of support continues today through the Doris Davies Trust Scholarship Fund, which provides ongoing educational assistance to local youth.

In 1984, Doris, her husband Cliff, and a small group of friends founded a nonprofit organization called Benefit Ball Games. Their mission was simple but impactful: to raise funds to support Victorville’s children by enhancing local schools and parks. Over the next 20 years, the group provided essential equipment—such as bleachers, backstops, drinking fountains, and playground structures—improving recreational spaces throughout the city.

Recognizing the need for a more formal partnership with the City, Doris met with City of Victorville representatives in 2004 to discuss the possibility of creating a “Friends of Parks and Recreation” group, similar to those established in other Southern California communities. This vision became reality in 2005, when the organization was officially incorporated and renamed Benefit Everyone, Assist Recreation & Sports (B.E.A.R.S.). The name paid tribute to Doris' beloved “Bad News Bears” legacy and reflected her enduring commitment to the well-being and happiness of Victorville’s youth.

Doris Davies BEARS

Purpose

Most nonprofit organizations begin with a simple idea: a need in the community and a belief that positive change is possible. This belief is what inspired the creation of B.E.A.R.S. (Benefit Everyone, Assist Recreation & Sports).

Formed to support the City of Victorville's Community Services Department, B.E.A.R.S. was established to:

• Solicit funds to enhance facilities, programs, and services
• Provide tax-deductible options for donors
• Apply for grants not accessible to government agencies
• Build a community-based group of advocates
• Continue the annual bicycle giveaway started by Doris Davies

Mission

B.E.A.R.S. is a nonprofit public benefit corporation dedicated to supporting and enhancing public parks, facilities, and recreation programs in Victorville. The organization raises funds through donations, grants, gifts, bequests, and fundraising events to promote recreational opportunities for all members of the community.

History

In 1984, Doris Davies, her husband Cliff, and a close group of friends founded a nonprofit called Benefit Ball Games to raise funds for local children. Over two decades, they helped improve schools and parks throughout Victorville by purchasing bleachers, backstops, drinking fountains, and playground equipment.

At the same time, the City of Victorville was exploring the idea of forming a “Friends of Parks and Recreation” organization—similar to models in other Southern California cities.

In 2004, Doris partnered with the City to turn that vision into reality. By 2005, the group was officially incorporated and renamed Benefit Everyone, Assist Recreation & Sports (B.E.A.R.S.)—a name inspired by Doris’ "Bad News Bears" legacy.

Programs

• Annual Bicycle Give-Away
• Ongoing Fundraising campaigns

If you would like more information about the B.E.A.R.S., please contact City of Victorville Recreation Manager, Liset Lagunas, at Hook Community Center at (760) 245-5551.