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Who We Are

CJ’s Thumbs Up Foundation (CJSTUF) is a compassionate, community-driven nonprofit dedicated to supporting families of children who find themselves in the hospital. Founded in memory of Charlotte Jennie in 2010, the organization honors her legacy by offering meaningful assistance to families during some of their most challenging times.

CJSTUF provides direct assistance through meals and other tangible supports, helping to relieve some of the burdens that come with caring for a seriously ill child. Rooted in the Richmond and Hanover, VA communities, the foundation has consistently exceeded its goals and continues to grow each year.

With a clear and heartfelt vision, CJSTUF aims to ensure that families of hospitalized children experience kindness and comfort at their most difficult times. Through strategic program expansion and partnerships, the organization strives to make an even greater impact—ensuring that no family walks through illness alone.

Our Mission

To support families with hospitalized children through kindness, community connection, and tangible assistance. 

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Our Vision

​Since our founding in 2010, we have seen CJ’s Thumbs Up Foundation grow in amazing ways.  When we set out to start this organization, our mission was clear. We wanted to honor Charlotte Jennie’s memory by serving families in their time of need.  We do this through meals and other tangible supports.  We are serving many needs of the Richmond and Charlottesville, VA communities, and have exceeded our goals every year of our existence.

In November 2025, our Board adopted the following Vision statement for our organization:

“Ensuring families with hospitalized children never face their journey alone.”

Thank you for helping us get this far. Thank you for helping us grow.  Thank you for helping us in our quest to achieve this vision. 

Our CJSTUF Team

Roger Reynolds

Director of Programs
​CJSTUF Co-Founder + Charlotte’s Dad

Rachel Reynolds

Managing Director
​CJSTUF Co-Founder + Charlotte’s Mom

Vicki Swanson

Director of Development + Engagement

Jay Ell Alexander

Marketing + Communications Lead

Kamryn Thompson
Development Coordinator

Board of Directors, 2026

Dr. George Spagna, Chair
Randolph-Macon College (Retired)

Aaron Gilley, Vice Chair
VCU Health Systems

Anthony Keitt, Treasurer
ACES & Shiloh Baptist Church

Emily Arnold Fleming, Secretary
​The Faison Center

Terry Monroe
Circles of Ashland

Kristy Schaffer
CarMax

Julia Klauer
Atlee YMCA

Matt Spangler
​Westover Hills United Methodist Church

Dr. Judith McKinney
ACT Connections

Denise Smith
​Caroline County Public Schools