Soapy Bears Clean Up at Annual Charity Car Wash in Ferndale
Annual Motor City Bears fundraiser breaks records supporting Affirmations and Ruth Ellis Center
The Motor City Bears turned heads and raised funds on June 7 during their 17th annual car wash fundraiser at First Merchants Bank in Ferndale, with proceeds supporting two vital LGBTQ+ organizations serving youth in Southeast Michigan.
"This is our 17th year doing the car wash to support our charities Affirmations and Ruth Ellis Center," said Scott Wood, an organizer with the Motor City Bears. "We ask our community to help us help them and they always come through. This was another record breaking year."
The event, which has become a beloved annual tradition in Ferndale, features members of the bear community washing vehicles while wearing Speedos, creating a playful atmosphere that draws both customers and spectators.
"Seeing big, beary guys wearing Speedo-type swimwear is something not often seen, but our community and our members love it," Wood said. The soapy bears put on quite a show, he noted, with playful banter like "your car is so dirty, so dirty" often heard throughout the day. "They can put on quite the show and the community loves it."
The fundraiser serves cars, trucks, bikes, scooters and has even accommodated roller blades over the years. Beyond the practical service, the event has become a community gathering where many customers step out of their vehicles for photos with the washing crew.
Wood was pleased to report the event's success. "Happy to say that we received $1,696 in donations that will go to Affirmations and Ruth Ellis Center," he said, significantly exceeding last year's total of just over $1,000.
All proceeds support Ruth Ellis Center and Affirmations, both 501(c)(3) organizations that provide crucial services to LGBTQ+ teens and young adults. The car wash is part of the Motor City Bears' broader 2025 charity fundraising efforts, demonstrating the organization's ongoing commitment to supporting LGBTQ+ youth services in the region.
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