Bear Club 4 Men

BearClub NortheastWisconsin (formerly Bear Club 4 Men) was started by a group of self-identified "bears" who wanted social engagement outside the bars. In September 2004, the clan put out a call for members. Over the next several months, membership grew exponentially and the club took shape.

On December 2, 2004, the first Bear Club 4 Men event was held at Napalese Lounge. This was just a simple get-together with food, music, and a fundraising raffle. The standing room only event surpassed all expectations. Two months later, the Bear Club 4 Men developed a mission statement, wrote its bylaws, and opened its first bank account.

Eventually, Bear Club 4 Men grew to over 50 members. In addition to slumber parties, potluck dinners, and game nights, the Club hosted extravagant public events, including the annual Bear Hug in February, the Spring Thaw Toga Party in March, and the Salmon Run every summer. The Salmon Run was a camping trip and mile-long float down the Menominee River.

For years, the Bear Club 4 Men supported the AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin as their chosen charity.

The club later rebranded as BearClub NortheastWisconsin. However, it's unclear if the organization is still operating, as their Facebook page has been inactive since August 2021.