OUR FOUNDER ✒️

Kozie Ellison founded The Rush Foundation in honor of his late mother, Stacy Rush — a woman whose love continues to inspire every bear hug shared through this foundation.

At just six years old, Kozie lost his  beautiful mother. The very last gift Kozie can remember she gave him was a teddy bear. That small bear became a big reminder of comfort, safety, and love — something he would carry with him for the rest of his life.

After his mother’s passing, Kozie was adopted by his aunt and uncle, Pastor Caren and Anthony Ellison, who in which became his loving parents. His cousins — Isaac, Christy, and Hope — became his siblings, creating a family bond built on faith, strength, and compassion.

Raised in church, Kozie developed a deep passion for giving back and helping others feel loved — especially children who, like him, have experienced loss.

Every visit back home to Nashville includes a stop at the lake where he is able to bask in her presence, a quiet moment of reflection that reminds him why he started this mission.

Through The Rush Foundation, Kozie is continuing his mother’s legacy — spreading love, warmth, and comfort to children who need it most.