Meet Virginia Bear Hunter 2024, Gregory Behan

We wind up our introductions to the 2024 Virginia Bear title family by introducing you to the newly elected VA Bear Hunter Gregory Behan, a passionate and committed young man with a warmhearted and wholistic view of the bear community.

BWM: Can you tell us a bit about your background?

Gregory Behan (GB): I grew up in Northern Virginia, I am 26 years old, I am an AspyBear or a Bear with Autism, I have three college degrees (2 Associate Degrees and 1 Bachelor’s Degree), and I currently live in the Hampton Roads area, in South Eastern Virginia.

BWM: What drew you to the bear community?

GB: I was drawn to the bear community because I found comfort in knowing that no matter how hairy or big I am, I am always welcomed and loved by the Bear community.

BWM: What made you want to compete for this title?

GB: I want to make a difference in my local communities across the state of Virginia, and I know that with my title, I can make my vision come true.

BWM: How was your experience competing? What did you have to do to win?

GB: Competing for this title was challenging, but worth it. To win this title, I had to not only bring my best on the stage and think outside the box, but I also had to show that I was serious about making a positive difference in the communities I support.

BWM: Can you tell us about your experience as a bear hunter in the community?

GB: As a bear hunter, I have shown my appreciation for my local bear community by helping every bear everywhere, every time. I have been a part of the Bear community for some time now and I have only recently been given a VA title. I can’t wait to show the bear community what I can do with even more help and support.

BWM: Do you prefer the term bear hunter to chaser, and if so, why?

GB: I prefer the term Bear Hunter because I believe that the term hunter represents being part of a Bear community and having a purpose for something bigger and greater than themselves. Whereas the term chaser, in my eyes, refers to someone who is only interested in one thing, and that is not what I’m here for.

BWM: What issues do you feel need to be addressed in the bear community?

GB: The issues I see that need to be addressed are not in the Bear community but are about the understanding of what the Bear community is becoming. The Bear community needs more understanding from the outsiders’ perspectives on what a Bear is. Not every Bear is built the same, and not every Bear thinks the same. When I think of a Bear I think of a kind soul who is able to not only think with their head but also lead with their heart.

Follow Gregory Behan’s adventures as VA Bear Hunter 2024 by following the Virginia Bears and help Greg in his mission to make a difference by supporting his favorite charity, the LGBT Life Center in Norfolk VA. https://lgbtlifecenter.org/