OTU News
ONE Thumbs UP Gears Up for Annual Charity Weekend in August
LITTLE ROCK, AR — The community is coming together once again for a powerful weekend of purpose, unity, and giving back as ONE Thumbs UP, Inc. prepares to host its 12th Annual Charity Weekend, taking place August 15–17, 2025. This year’s events promise more impact, more energy, and more opportunities to support youth with special needs and raise awareness for epilepsy. Founded in memory of Rainia “NeNe” Holmes, a vibrant teen who passed away in 2011 due to complications from epilepsy, ONE Thumbs UP has grown into a beacon of hope for families and students across Arkansas and Illinois. The organization’s signature gesture — the “thumbs up” — once used by Rainia to communicate with her family during seizures, has now become a lasting symbol of strength, positivity, and resilience. This year’s Charity Weekend will feature a lineup of community-centered events designed to uplift, educate, and inspire: August 15 - Adult Game Night at Daiquiris & Dawgs August 16 - 5K Epilepsy Awareness Color Walk in downtown Little Rock August 17 - Epilepsy Education Session, Charity Basketball Game, and OTU CookOWT at Philander Smith University Each event is open to the public, with proceeds supporting the ONE Thumbs UP Scholarship Endowment, Thanksgiving basket drives, the Backpacks for Kids Program, and contributions to the Epilepsy Foundation. “Charity Weekend isn’t just about fundraising — it’s about celebrating Rainia’s legacy and pushing forward a mission rooted in love, equity, and empowerment,” said Ryan Holmes, founder of ONE Thumbs UP and Rainia’s brother. With growing community support and returning sponsors, the weekend continues to build momentum year after year. Philander Smith University, a longtime supporter of the initiative, will once again host the weekend's flagship events. Whether you’re walking, cheering, donating, or just showing up with your "thumbs up," your presence helps push the mission forward. For more information, event times, or to donate, visit: OneThumbsUp.com Join the movement. Support the mission. Give one thumbs up.
Mayor Frank Scott Jr. to Attend 11th Annual ONE Thumbs UP Charity Basketball Game
LITTLE ROCK, AR (August 11, 2023) — ONE Thumbs UP, Inc. is proud to announce that Mayor Frank D. Scott Jr. will attend the 11th Annual OTU Charity Basketball Game this Saturday at Philander Smith University. Doors open at 5:00 p.m., and tickets are available both online and at the door. The charity basketball game is a flagship event of the OTU Charity Weekend, drawing community members, leaders, and supporters together in a spirited show of unity and purpose. All proceeds from the event will benefit the One Thumbs Up Endowment, which funds scholarships and supports initiatives for youth with special needs and epilepsy awareness. Mayor Frank Scott Jr., now serving his second term as Mayor of Little Rock, made history as the city’s first popularly-elected African American mayor. First elected in 2018 and re-elected in 2022, Mayor Scott has remained committed to community development, youth empowerment, and equity — values that closely align with the mission of ONE Thumbs UP. The presence of Mayor Scott at this year’s game further underscores the importance of grassroots advocacy and the power of community collaboration in creating lasting impact. Come out for an evening of fun, purpose, and unity — and help push the mission forward, one thumbs up at a time.
Illinois State Representative Declares January 14th as “One Thumbs Up Day” in Honor of Rainia “NeNe” Holmes
Bloom Township, IL — A heartfelt tribute has been made official in the 80th District of Illinois, as State Representative Anthony J. DeLuca has formally proclaimed January 14th as "One Thumbs Up Day" in honor of Rainia “NeNe” Holmes, the late teen whose life and legacy inspired the founding of the nonprofit organization One Thumbs Up, Inc. The proclamation marks a significant milestone for the organization and all who have been touched by Rainia’s story. Known for her resilience and courage while living with epilepsy, Rainia used the simple gesture of a thumbs up to communicate with her family after seizures, offering comfort and connection even during her most challenging moments. That gesture would later become the name and symbol of the charitable organization created in her memory. “We are so very proud and humbled by this recognition,” said members of the One Thumbs Up team. “To have NeNe honored in this way means the world to us. We are deeply grateful to Rep. DeLuca and his assistant Kelly for their kindness and unwavering support. Their efforts ensure that Rainia’s legacy of strength, compassion, and hope continues to inspire others.” One Thumbs Up, Inc. was founded in 2011 and has since provided scholarships and community support to students in Illinois and Arkansas, while raising awareness for epilepsy and advocating for youth with special needs. The official recognition of One Thumbs Up Day not only honors Rainia’s memory but also highlights the continued impact of her life’s message — to stay positive, face challenges with grace, and lift others up along the way.