About
On Reserve

Who Are We?

On Reserve is a non-profit, pay-it-forward meal program started by University of Virginia (UVA) students in 2017. We partner with local restaurants and grocery outlets, to offer high quality meals to those in need in the Greater Charlottesville –Albemarle Community. The program operates on the pay-it-forward principle, relying on community goodwill to provide donations and meal purchases

We also host catering events at local food kitchens sponsored by our partners to ensure healthy and nutritious meals for those in need.

We currently collaborate with two service organizations, On Our Own and The Haven, to identify those in need and provide them with a meal.

Get Involved

Want to get involved? Its easy! Simply go to any of our participating restaurants, order a delicious meal for yourself, and then ask your server or cashier about purchasing a meal “On Reserve”. That’s it!

We also hope to bring potential volunteer events like fundraisers and food catering opportunities to you soon!

You may also donate directly to On Reserve through Venmo or our secure form that goes directly to our Paypal!

Meet The Team

Abby Minkin
Deputy Director and CFO

Year: Third

Major: Biology

I joined On Reserve because I am passionate about combatting food insecurity and wanted to do more to give back to the Charlottesville community. On Reserve is a great way to serve our community, both on and off grounds, and provide those in need with healthy and nutritious meals.

Fun Fact: I enjoy art, baking, and going for walks in my free time.

 

Brendan Puglisi
Senior Data and Web Analyst

Year: Master’s

Focus: Data Science

Since High School my philanthropic work has been centered around alleviating food insecurity. Whether this is in my hometown or Charlottesville, I strive to help the community I am a part of and On Reserve allows me to accomplish that!

Fun Fact: I play guitar and sing in my free time

Emily Bulger
Marketing & Events Specialist

Year: Fourth

Major: Economics

On Reserve gives me an opportunity to give back to the Charlottesville community, while working alongside some amazing people.

Fun Fact: My favorite pastimes are reading and hiking!

Cliff Maxwell
Director & CEO

“On Reserve began as a class project created by second-year student, Nora Burgess. In her fourth year, Nora did an independent study to pilot her idea partnering with restaurants on the Corner. Soon after these relationships were put in place, we formalized the existence of On Reserve by making it a 501(c)(3). Over the years student volunteers on the board of directors have worked to grow the original vision of community generosity to provide meals and reduce hunger.”

Fun fact: I forage for food in my back yard making “delicious” vegetable dishes.

Sophie Cappello
Community Engagement Specialist

Year: First

Major: Economics 

Since high school, I’ve spent much of my time volunteering for
organizations centered around food insecurity. Joining On Reserve has been a way for me to
continue my passion for helping people and serving the community while being part of a team
who I know can truly make a difference

Fun fact: I love jigsaw puzzles; I usually do at least one a day!

Kaylee Fainter
Social Media Manager

Year: First

Major: Undeclared

While volunteering at my high school’s food pantry and clothing
outfitters, I found great enjoyment in contributing to those in my community and believe that
everyone deserves access to good food. Through On Reserve I am delighted to be able to
continue serving others during my time in Charlottesville.

Fun Fact: I love the Lego Collectible Minifigures Series and want to work for Lego Headquarters
one day