A Middle Tennessee organization created in memory of a young boy is reaching a major milestone after donating more than 5,200 stuffed animals to children and families in need.
Asher’s Animals was founded in September 2024 in honor of Asher Sullivan and his love of stuffed animals. Asher, the son of Rutherford County Schools Director Jimmy Sullivan, died after suffering extensive brain damage when he was swept into a storm drain during cleanup efforts following the severe May 8, 2024, storms.
Now, Asher’s Animals is officially pursuing 501(c)(3) nonprofit status, a move that could help the organization expand its mission and reach even more children in need.
The organization has donated stuffed animals to hospitals, first responders, children’s advocacy centers, recovery programs, schools, grief organizations, veterans and families facing difficult situations across Middle Tennessee and beyond.
The effort began after Asher’s family remembered how much comfort stuffed animals brought to children visiting him in the Ronald McDonald room at Vanderbilt during his 10-day stay there. His friends took some of the stuffed animals home, where they continued to be treasured.
Wanting to carry that same sense of comfort forward, Asher’s family began collecting stuffed animals to donate to other children. Becoming an official nonprofit could allow Asher’s Animals to expand its reach through tax-deductible donations, grants and long-term partnerships.
The organization is seeking help from people with experience in nonprofit law, accounting and administration who may be willing to donate their time or services. Financial donations are also being sought to help cover the legal filing and formation costs.
For Asher’s family, the mission is about continuing the joy he found in making others smile.
“I just know he is smiling down on every single child who receives one of his animals,” Asher’s family shared. “He would be so happy and so proud.”
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