Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation
"Art sparks children's imaginations, with art, they can see whatever future they like"
— Rev Run, Co-Founder
Celebrating 30 years of empowering youth through creativity. Founded by Danny Simmons, Russell Simmons, and Rev Run (Joseph Simmons), Rush Arts provides free arts education, mentorship, and exhibition opportunities for underserved youth nationwide.
Mission & Impact
Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to providing inner city youth with significant exposure and access to the arts. Through free, year-round education programs for ages 2-18, Rush Arts immerses young people in the study and practice of contemporary art.
The foundation has helped launch globally recognized artists including Kehinde Wiley (portraitist of President Obama) and Simone Leigh (Golden Lion winner, Venice Biennale). Rush exhibits over 50 emerging artists yearly, attracting 12,000 visitors, and provides career opportunities in the arts for young people.
I have known Alan Wallace for more than 20 years and have worked with him on multiple projects in the arts and entertainment space. I first met Alan through my younger brother, Joseph "Run" Simmons of the iconic rap group Run-DMC, where Alan supported marketing and strategic planning in the group's early years.
When I launched the Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation, Alan volunteered pro bono to help develop sponsorship strategy for our annual "Art for Life" fundraiser in the Hamptons. He helped identify and target sponsors, build our pitch deck, and structure sponsorship levels and benefits. His contributions helped us secure hundreds of thousands of dollars for Rush over the years.
Alan later supported marketing and outreach for my HBO series Def Poetry, and more recently has assisted with fundraising for our Philadelphia gallery and support for Def Poetry reunion concerts. He has also documented many events as a photographer.
Alan is highly capable, reliable, and effective. I recommend him without hesitation.
Best regards,
— Danny Simmons, Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation
Rush Arts in Action
Watch how Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation empowers young artists
The Founders
Danny Simmons
A celebrated artist and arts activist, Simmons founded Rush Arts Galleries and served as Chair of the New York State Council on the Arts. He co-created Def Poetry Jam on HBO with Russell and continues to expand access to creative resources nationwide.
Russell Simmons
Co-founder of Def Jam Recordings, the "Godfather of Hip Hop" helped launch LL Cool J, Run-DMC, Public Enemy, and the Beastie Boys. Also known for his work in fashion (Phat Farm) and social justice, Simmons now leads a wellness retreat in Bali.
Rev Run (Joseph Simmons)
A Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee and co-founder of Run-DMC, Rev Run remains an iconic figure in music and culture, promoting faith, family, and youth empowerment. "Art sparks children's imaginations, with art, they can see whatever future they like," Rev Run
Programs & Services
Rush Little Kids, Kids & Teens
Free, year-round education program that immerses youth ages 2-18 in the study and practice of contemporary art.
Artist Exhibitions
Exhibits over 50 emerging artists yearly, attracting 12,000 visitors and providing career opportunities in the arts.
Mentorship Programs
Direct mentorship from established artists and arts professionals to guide young talent.
Art for Life Gala
Annual fundraising event celebrating student achievements and raising support for Rush programs.
Events & Activations
PressContact has supported Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation in producing and promoting signature events that celebrate hip hop culture, poetry, and visual arts while raising awareness and funds for youth programs.
Wordsmith: A Def Poetry Reunion Honoring Sonia Sanchez
Grounds For Sculpture, Hamilton Township, NJ - Danny Simmons presents an exploration of word flow, verses, live music and landscapes honoring legendary poet Sonia Sanchez.
Pieces of MUSIC HISTORY - Goldin Auction
Danny Simmons discusses his brother Russell Simmons and the incredible Gold Albums available in Goldin's Music Memorabilia Auction. The proceeds benefit the Rush Philanthropic Foundation.
View Instagram StoryThe Danny Simmons Episode - Donnie Houston Podcast
Danny Simmons discusses the historic hip-hop memorabilia auction from Russell Simmons' collection, including rare Def Jam plaques and collectibles. He shares personal stories about growing up with Russell and Rev Run, the early Def Jam era, and the creation of Def Poetry Jam on HBO.
The Walt Weekly Podcast - Danny Simmons Interview
The Walt Weekly sits down with Danny Simmons who shares his experiences on Life, Art, and his Future Aspirations. Danny discusses his work as a Neo-African abstract expressionist painter and co-founder of Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation.
Listen to PodcastRush Arts 25th Anniversary Portfolio Launch
Westwood Gallery NYC - A gallery happening featuring the Rush Arts 25th Anniversary Portfolio Launch, exhibition catalog release, and intimate poetry reading by Danny Simmons with musician Eric Frazier.
Def Poetry Jam: An Evening of Healing, Power & Poetry
Online Event - Def Poetry Jam returns for a mega marathon benefitting COVID-19 relief, featuring Russell Simmons, jessica Care moore, and poets from across the country.
Bridging the Gap - A Conversation with THE LAST POETS
Online Event - The Universal Hip Hop Museum and Video Music Box present a virtual conversation with THE LAST POETS, bridging generations of spoken word artists.
SOLD OUT: Def Poetry Reunion at Final Fridays
Philadelphia Museum of Art - Danny Simmons invites Philly's most recognized poets for an epic evening of artistry in a special takeover of Final Fridays.