American Optical Foundation
Accepts applications
American Optical Foundation is a private foundation in Southbridge, Massachusetts. In tax year 2025 it gave $83,850 in 3 grants; the typical grant was $11,100 and the largest $72,000. It accepts applications; its filing gives the instructions below.
From its IRS Form 990-PF for tax year 2025.
- Grants paid, 2025$83,850
- Number of grants3
- Typical grant$11,100
- Largest grant$72,000
- Assets$1.4 million
- New grantees0%
Giving in 2025 was up from $65,800 the year before.
0% of its 2025 grantees had not received a grant from it the year before, so most of its money goes to organizations it already funds.
Giving by year
| Tax year | Grants paid | Number of grants | Assets |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | $59,350 | 3 | $1.3 million |
| 2024 | $65,800 | 3 | $1.4 million |
| 2025 | $83,850 | 3 | $1.4 million |
How to apply
| Contact | Gary Bridgman 14 Mechanic Street, Southbridge, MA 01550 |
|---|---|
| Phone or email | (508) 765-7085 |
| What to submit | Two letters of recommendation; transcripts; formal letter of application; sat scores; essay on career objective. |
| Deadlines | April 25th annually |
| Restrictions | Children of american optical employees. |
What American Optical Foundation funds
Where it gives
All of its grants went to recipients in Massachusetts.
| State | Grants | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | 3 | $83,850 |
Grants paid in 2025
| Recipient | Purpose | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| See Attached Schedule - Scholarship | Educational | $72,000 |
| See Attached Schedule - Donations | Charitable donations | $11,100 |
| See Attached Schedule - Matching Gi | Charitable contribution | $750 |
Officers and trustees
- Gary Bridgman
- John van Dyke
- Allen Skott
Questions people ask
Does American Optical Foundation accept grant applications?
Yes. Its latest IRS filing says it accepts applications, with this on deadlines: April 25th annually.
How much does American Optical Foundation give?
$83,850 in tax year 2025, across 3 grants, with a typical grant of $11,100.
Who runs American Optical Foundation?
Its 2025 filing lists Gary Bridgman (Trustee), John van Dyke (Trustee) and Allen Skott (Trustee).
What does American Optical Foundation fund?
Based on its grants, mainly education.