Queen Elf Jennifer Cullenbine is retiring from the Family Giving Tree

By Eric Shapiro, Milpitas Beat, July 1, 2024

Family Giving Tree (FGT), the renowned Milpitas gift-giving nonprofit, announced today that its founder and CEO Jennifer Cullenbine will be retiring at the end of 2024. As of now, Jill Mitsch, who has been with the organization since 2020 and has served as its Director of Development and Deputy Director, is fulfilling the role of interim CEO.

Cullenbine, widely known by her nickname “Queen Elf,” founded FGT 35 years ago. During her run, 2.25 million people have been gifted during the winter holidays and back-to-school time.

Andrea Borch, Chair of FGT’s Board of Directors, said in a press release, “We are immensely grateful for Jennifer’s vision and kindness in starting Family Giving Tree and making our programs fixtures in communities across northern California. Her impact on the organization and the lives of those we serve cannot be overstated.”