The CAREacter Network
An emotional and financial support system for children and families who need it most
Our Mission
The CAREacter Network knows that our strength lies not only in the words we stand by, but through the actions of our initiatives. We are a charitable organization who's mission is to help relieve the emotional and financial strain on children and families battling serious medical issues. The CAREacter Network provides both emotional support, via hospital and in home visits to sick children as their favorite character, as well as financial support for medication, procedures and necessary equipment that is not always 100% covered by insurance companies. As families try to cope with the short-term or even years of out-of-pocket medical expenses and everyday living costs, the CAREacter Network provides supplemental coverage.
Get Involved
Making A Difference
COVID19 Changes
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With the recent declaration from the WHO announcing the Coronavirus as a pandemic, all CAREacter Network events and appearances have been postponed until later notice out of safety for all.
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Though the current circumstances have currently limited in person visitations, the CAREacter Network now has three additional services in its place:
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**Open to any child under the age of 14. As always, our services are completely free of charge.**
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1.) Apply for a CARE package:
CARE packages will include books, activities, coloring books and games. Please indicate the age of the child in the submission form.
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2.) Apply for a Personalized Video:
Personal video and well wishes from your choice of one of our CAREacters.
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3.) Apply for our CAREacter Network Pen Pal Program:
Personal pen pal communication from the CAREacter of your choosing.
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Get To Know Our CAREacters
Committed to the Cause
Maddy Jarvis
Founder & Lead CAREacter
Maddy founded The CAREacter Network after several years of working as a character for two entertainment organizations, doing both paid appearances and performances as well as charitable events and hospital visits within her home state. Having a background in performance, experience in non-profit work, and a passion for service, Maddy decided to combine these three loves for the benefit of children and families in need. Maddy is a Senior at James Madison University, primarily studying communications and political science, a member of the Zeta Tau Alpha sorority and a Student Ambassador.
Joelle Painter
CAREacter
Joelle is a Senior Psychology major from the small town of Luray, VA. While in school she sings in one of JMU's all-female a capella groups, volunteers and works at a therapeutic horsemanship program, and babysits for local families.
Annie Edvalson
CAREacter
Annie is a Psychology major with a double minor in Gerontology and Chronic Illness from Mont Vernon, NH. She is a Student Ambassador, a Valley Ambassador, and a member of Friends of Rachel. She has a performance background of nine years and has seven years experience working with kids. She is also an active volunteer, particularly with the Anne-Marie House, which helps to keep families together who are experiencing homelessness.
Mackenzie Meadows
CAREacter
Mackenzie is a senior at James Madison University majoring in musical theatre with a minor in dance. She was born and raised in Richmond, Virginia and has enjoyed acting, singing and dancing her entire life. She's worked as a camp counselor at theatre and day camps for five years. When she is not performing she enjoys traveling, spending time with friends and family, and catching up on Netflix shows. Her favorite Disney princess is Tiana!
Sarah Robinson
CAREacter
Sarah is currently a senior Theatre major with a concentration in Performance at James Madison University. Sarah plans to pursue an MFA in acting for television and film. She enjoys performing in plays, acting in her improv comedy group, Weird Cousins, and volunteers her time promoting her platform: CAPE, Campus Assault Prevention and Education in an effort to reduce sexual assault on college campuses.
Get To Know Our Team
Committed to the Cause
Maddy Jarvis
Founder & Lead CAREacter
Maddy founded The CAREacter Network after several years of working as a character for two entertainment organizations, doing both paid appearances and performances as well as charitable events and hospital visits within her home state. Having a background in performance, experience in non-profit work, and a passion for service, Maddy decided to combine these three loves for the benefit of children and families in need. Maddy is a Junior at James Madison University, primarily studying communications and political science, a member of the Zeta Tau Alpha sorority and a Student Ambassador.
Lizzie Hobbs
CAREacter
Lizzie is a rising senior at Gettysburg College studying History with concentrations in Public History and War Studies. In addition to school she is a member of the Alpha Phi Omega Service Fraternity, her school’s all-female acapella group, and is a digital history research assistant!
Annie Edvalson
CAREacter
Annie is a Psychology major with a double minor in Gerontology and Chronic Illness from Mont Vernon, NH. She is a Student Ambassador, a Valley Ambassador, and a member of Friends of Rachel. She has a performance background of nine years and has seven years experience working with kids. She is also an active volunteer, particularly with the Anne-Marie House, which helps to keep families together who are experiencing homelessness.
Mackenzie Meadows
CAREacter
Mackenzie is a senior at James Madison University majoring in musical theatre with a minor in dance. She was born and raised in Richmond, Virginia and has enjoyed acting, singing and dancing her entire life. She's worked as a camp counselor at theatre and day camps for five years. When she is not performing she enjoys traveling, spending time with friends and family, and catching up on Netflix shows. Her favorite Disney princess is Tiana!
Sarah Robinson
CAREacter
Sarah is currently a senior Theatre major with a concentration in Performance at James Madison University. Sarah plans to pursue an MFA in acting for television and film. She enjoys performing in plays, acting in her improv comedy group, Weird Cousins, and volunteers her time promoting her platform: CAPE, Campus Assault Prevention and Education in an effort to reduce sexual assault on college campuses.
