Our mission is to inspire children and families nationwide by uniting people of different backgrounds through service and sports programs.
GIVING BACK
#BeLikeCJ "Christmas Toy Giveaway"
DECEMBER 2025
Each year, the BeLikeCJ Foundation prayerfully identifies an underserved school to bless with toys for Christmas — because giving to those in need was truly CJ’s heart.
This year, we are honored to celebrate the students of Westlawn Elementary with a joyful Christmas experience filled with bikes, basketballs, art sets, dolls, games, and more — all given in the spirit of CJ’s love, kindness, and generosity.
Be Like CJ Foundation
Get to Know CJ
On April 4, 2021, at the tender age of 14, CJ went home to be with the Lord following a tragic accident. CJ was born June 11, 2006, in Miami, Florida to proud parents Cedrick Harris, Sr. and Marie Ferdinand Harris.
CJ was a bright, 8th grade student at Ashdown Jr. High School in Ashdown, Arkansas. He was not your average 14 year old. CJ was a loving young man, exceptionally talented with a heart of gold. He was extremely kind- hearted and left a lasting impression on everyone he met!
Explore Our Mission
At the BeLikeCJ Foundation, our mission is to inspire children and families nationwide by uniting people of different backgrounds through service and sports programs. We believe in the power of community and the impact of shared experiences to bring hope, joy, and support to those who need it most.
Every program reflects our commitment to fostering unity, celebrating diversity, and making a positive difference in the lives of families and youth across the country.
Giving Back
Through initiatives like the Walk of Love, the BeLikeCJ Award & Birthday Celebration, scholarships for deserving students, our Turkey Feast and Giveaway, and the Christmas Toy Drive, we’re dedicated to creating opportunities for connection and care.
These programs not only provide tangible support but also foster a spirit of love, hope, and generosity that strengthens our community bonds.
How Your Donations Make an Impact
Every dollar raised by the BeLikeCJ Foundation supports our mission to uplift and serve our community through meaningful programs and events. Your generosity helps fund:
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Walk of Love: Bringing the community together in a spirit of unity and remembrance.
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BeLikeCJ Award & Birthday Celebration: Honoring CJ’s legacy by recognizing individuals who embody his values.
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Scholarships: Empowering two deserving recipients to pursue their educational dreams.
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Turkey Feast and Giveaway: Ensuring families in need have a warm, nourishing meal for the holidays.
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Christmas Toy Drive: Spreading joy and hope to children during the holiday season.
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These initiatives are a testament to our commitment to making a tangible difference. Every contribution goes directly toward supporting families and youth, building a stronger, more compassionate community.
EXCITING NEWS!
First the book, now the launching of The BeLikeCJ Curriculum
We are thrilled to announce the release of CJ's brand-new book, Be Like CJ! Released on June 1st, this book dives deep into the life of CJ Harris, highlighting the qualities that made him such a remarkable person. Through touching stories and life lessons, readers of all ages will learn about leadership, friendship, and the power of being kind, humble, and determined.
AND NOW...Here Comes the Curriculum to go alongside the book and we are launching at our first school October 18th.
Be Like CJ
Traits of a Superhero
In this book, former WNBA all-star Marie Ferdinand-Harris honors the legacy of her son, CJ Harris, a remarkable child whose story teaches invaluable lessons in leadership and friendship. We will explore the qualities that made him extraordinary: caring, the ultimate teammate, special, humble, respectful, encouraging, and determined. Through inspiring stories and key takeaways, this book will be a great resource for kids of all ages.
Merch Store Now Open
CEDRICK “CJ” MICHAEL HARRIS, JR.
On April 4, 2021, at the tender age of 14, CJ went home to be with the Lord following a tragic accident. CJ was born June 11, 2006, in Miami, Florida to proud parents Cedrick Harris, Sr. and Marie Ferdinand Harris.
CJ was a bright, 8th grade student at Ashdown Jr. High School in Ashdown, Arkansas. He was not your average 14 year old. CJ was a loving young man, exceptionally talented with a heart of gold. He was extremely kind- hearted and left a lasting impression on everyone he met!
Be an Ultimate Teammate!
Support our fundraising campaign and become an #UltimateTeammate by donating a minimum $24.
CJ wore #24!
Your one-time or monthly contribution means so much as we work to inspire children and families nationwide and unite people of different backgrounds through service and sports programs. DONATE TODAY!
A note from CJ's parents:
Thank you for taking the time to visit our website! We sincerely appreciate your generosity and support of the #BeLikeCJ Foundation. Your kindness is greatly appreciated and will always be remembered by our family.
Your support will help us keep CJ’s memory alive and continue the legacy that he built in his 14 short years of life. CJ made every moment, interaction & opportunity count and the #BeLikeCJ Foundation is committed to doing the same! We will further CJ’s mission through various charitable projects in his honor.
We cannot do this without you. Please support us in keeping CJ’s memory alive through our service to others. Our family, and all those we will serve, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your generosity, love, prayers, and support.
With love,
CJ’s devoted parents,
Cedrick & Marie
