Helping Us Help Ourselves
Preselected recipients only
Helping Us Help Ourselves is a private foundation in Pasadena, California. In tax year 2025 it gave $125,000 in 3 grants; the typical grant was $20,000 and the largest $100,000. It only gives to organizations it selects itself and does not accept unsolicited applications.
From its IRS Form 990-PF for tax year 2025.
- Grants paid, 2025$125,000
- Number of grants3
- Typical grant$20,000
- Largest grant$100,000
- Assets$0
- New grantees67%
Giving in 2025 was up from $113,000 the year before.
67% of its 2025 grantees had not received a grant from it the year before, a sign it is open to new organizations.
Giving by year
| Tax year | Grants paid | Number of grants | Assets |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | $118,000 | 4 | $0 |
| 2024 | $113,000 | 2 | $0 |
| 2025 | $125,000 | 3 | $0 |
How to apply
Helping Us Help Ourselves says in its IRS filing that it only makes contributions to preselected organizations, so unsolicited applications are unlikely to be considered. Organizations it funds are usually invited.
What Helping Us Help Ourselves funds
Where it gives
All of its grants went to recipients in California.
| State | Grants | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| California | 3 | $125,000 |
Grants paid in 2025
| Recipient | Purpose | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Long Beach Community Foundation | Education | $100,000 |
| Shacc | Donation | $20,000 |
| Naples Island Garden Club | Donation | $5,000 |
Officers and trustees
- Mike Scanlin
- Suzy Lawrence
- Joe Scanlin
Questions people ask
Does Helping Us Help Ourselves accept grant applications?
No. Its IRS filing says it only makes contributions to preselected organizations.
How much does Helping Us Help Ourselves give?
$125,000 in tax year 2025, across 3 grants, with a typical grant of $20,000.
Who runs Helping Us Help Ourselves?
Its 2025 filing lists Mike Scanlin (President), Suzy Lawrence (Secretary) and Joe Scanlin (Ceo).
What does Helping Us Help Ourselves fund?
Based on its grants, mainly community development, education and environment and conservation.