Get to know our founders

Gus Niewenhous and Kelly Cullum founded The Hous Foundation to honor the legacy of their sister Annie, and her children Izzy and Parker. Growing up, all three siblings participated in non-school activities.

L to R: Gus, Kelly, and Annie. 1985.

Kelly, who is now a Deputy Unit Director at the U.S. Department of State, loved the after-school activities, weekend trips, and summer camp that came with being a Girl Scout. She developed an appreciation for arts and crafts, activities she encourages in her own children, ages 15 and 17.

She also participated in sports. Kelly said, “Being on a team builds confidence, skills, and friendships that last a lifetime, no matter what the sport or activity.”

Gus played baseball as a younger child but found his spot with soccer during middle school. “I had a blast playing at the club level,” Gus said. “I cannot imagine how different my childhood would have been without the opportunity to play sports.”

Gus worked hard to be able to do something in life he enjoys. “As I got into high school and really loved motorsports, I did whatever I could to make it my career.” Gus is now the Director of Sales and Marketing at Ohlins Racing.

Annie also valued and thrived in non-school activities. She played sports, took drum lessons and was in the band and orchestra, took gymnastics classes, and enjoyed scouting, arts and crafts. She carried all these interests into adulthood, even competing in triathlons and training others.

Through The Hous Foundation, Gus and Kelly want to make sure all children can participate in activities they are excited about. Gus adds, “Izzy and Parker never had the opportunity to experience those things because we lost them at such a young age, so we thought it was a great way to honor them as well.”