From the circus ring to the Arctic tundra, Hovey's life is anything but ordinary — and his commitment to polar bears is just as inspiring.
Why do people support polar bear conservation? Ask ten supporters and you’ll hear ten unique stories. But none quite like that of Hovey Burgess.
Now 84, Hovey has spent a lifetime performing under the big top — mastering the art of juggling, teaching circus arts at NYU for 50 years and even performing with (and as!) a polar bear. A showman at heart, he’s inspired generations of performers, including actors Debra Messing and Mahershala Ali.
But it’s not just the stage that captures his heart, it’s the polar bears themselves.
Hovey’s passion for polar bears began with his mother, who adored them. In her memory, he began symbolically adopting polar bears, eventually finding a meaningful home with Polar Bears International. Today, Hovey is a proud Polar Bear Patron, giving monthly to support our research, outreach and advocacy.
“My apartment is full of polar bears,” he laughs. “Stuffed animals, sculptures, artwork — you name it. But I want to help protect the real ones, too.”
In 2018, Hovey visited Churchill, Manitoba, the polar bear capital of the world. Even though the bears had mostly moved on to the ice by the time he arrived, he still calls it one of the most magical experiences of his life. He’s even made a short film about the trip, starring himself as a polar bear, of course.
His support as a monthly donor helps ensure that Polar Bears International has reliable funding to plan ahead, respond quickly and sustain the long-term work needed to protect polar bears and their fragile Arctic habitat.
“I don’t know what’s more important than saving these canaries in the coal mine,” Hovey says. “The Arctic is warming twice as fast as anywhere else. Some people see that as an opportunity for industry. I see it as a call to protect what’s left.”
Hovey gives monthly. Will you?
Becoming a Polar Bear Patron is one of the most powerful ways to support polar bear conservation year-round. It’s simple, impactful and ensures that together, we can keep this iconic species in the wild for generations to come.
