Supporting Our Youth: C.J. Matthews Talks “Blankies 4 My Buddies” Foundation

In a recent live session conversation, I had the privilege of discussing with young athlete/activist, C.J. Matthews, about he and his brother Kollin and his parent’s inspiring work with “Blankies 4 My Buddies“, a program aimed at providing comfort to children facing grief, loss, chronic illness, and homelessness. We delved into various aspects of the program, including the impactful “Blanket Box project” and the innovative Making Change Blanket Workshop. This interview occurred a little while back and I held it for “Black History” month as a poignant reminder that we are often led by our youth…especially in the Black community as is evidenced

In 2022, C.J. Matthews became the youngest inaugural Prudential Emerging Visionaries class member. He introduced THE BLANKET BOX PROJECT, a social impact initiative to empower youth as change agents. The project focuses on teaching youth about empathy and fostering a lifestyle of service by having them craft blankets for those in need. It draws inspiration from CJ’s childhood experience of finding solace in giving blankets to those in need after his mother faced a pregnancy loss when he was five. C.J. recently celebrated his 16th birthday and Blankies 4 My Buddies also hit a milestone of ten years of providing small doses of comfort to those in need. C.J. and his family, including their rainbow baby, Kollin, age 7, have generously donated over 25,000 blankets to people, mostly children facing adversity, including illness, homelessness, grief, and loss.

C.J. Matthews’ Journey with Blankies 4 My Buddies

C.J. Matthews shared with me the heartwarming story of how he initiated Blankies 4 My Buddies at the tender age of five, driven by a desire to assist children in traumatic situations. Over the years, the program has evolved to encompass socks, books, and other essentials, garnering recognition and awards such as the Prudential Emerging Visionaries Award. The Blanket Box project, a cornerstone of the program, encourages kids to experience the joy of giving back by crafting items with their own hands. Additionally, Matthews is developing professional workshops to equip caregivers working with children affected by grief or loss.

Good Brothers Coloring and Activity Book and Supporting the Cause

We discussed the Good Brothers Coloring and Activity Book, a collaborative effort between CJ and his mother, designed to raise awareness and support for the cause. We explored avenues for people to contribute, whether by purchasing the book, making donations, or engaging with CJ via his Instagram page, Blankets for My Buddies.

C.J. Matthews’ Media Appearances and Leadership Journey

Our conversation also touched upon C.J.’s media appearances, including his feature on Nickelodeon, and his aspirations to combat issues like bullying and attention-seeking behavior through his leadership endeavors. I expressed admiration for CJ’s commitment to making a positive impact in his community and offered my support for his ongoing efforts.

Through our dialogue, we addressed key questions about CJ’s engagement with professionals, avenues for supporting the program, and CJ’s most fulfilling moments throughout the process. It was an enlightening exchange, reaffirming the significance of leadership and community engagement in addressing social issues positively.

Tune In to our amazing conversation below!

All photos courtesy of Blankies 4 My Buddies and provided for editorial use

Find out more about this dynamic duo of brothers aided and abetted by strong supported parents as they sweep the nation with love and support for their peers suffering through various traumas…support the youth! https://www.blankies4mybuddies.org/

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Tags: Blankies 4 My Buddies, C.J. Matthews, Kollin Matthews, Nickelodeon, The Blanket Box

About the Author

Dr. Jerry Doby Editor-in-Chief of The Hype Magazine, Media and SEO Consultant, Journalist, Ph.D. and retired combat vet. 2023 recipient of The President's Lifetime Achievement Award. Partner at THM Media Group. Member of the U.S. Department of Arts and Culture, the United States Press Agency and ForbesBLK.