Media Empathy Foundation
Preselected recipients only
Media Empathy Foundation is a private foundation in New York, New York. In tax year 2025 it gave $11,800 in 3 grants; the typical grant was $5,200 and the largest $5,500. 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$11,800
- Number of grants3
- Typical grant$5,200
- Largest grant$5,500
- Assets$23,969
- New grantees67%
Giving in 2025 was up from $5,590 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | $5,590 | 2 | $48,352 |
| 2025 | $11,800 | 3 | $23,969 |
How to apply
Media Empathy Foundation 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.
Foundation website IRS filings on ProPublica
Where it gives
All of its grants went to recipients in New York.
| State | Grants | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| New York | 3 | $11,800 |
Grants paid in 2025
| Recipient | Purpose | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| The New Group | General support | $5,500 |
| Arthur Miller Foundation | General support | $5,200 |
| Fire Island Pines Historical Association | General support | $1,100 |
Officers and trustees
- Helene Ellison
- Susan Magsamen
- Russell H Ellison
- David Barrett
- Max Monahan- Ellison
- Barbara Ricci
- David Sloan
- Mike Paseornek
- Jeff Mahshie
- Orlando Reece
Questions people ask
Does Media Empathy Foundation accept grant applications?
No. Its IRS filing says it only makes contributions to preselected organizations.
How much does Media Empathy Foundation give?
$11,800 in tax year 2025, across 3 grants, with a typical grant of $5,200.
Who runs Media Empathy Foundation?
Its 2025 filing lists Helene Ellison (President & Director), Susan Magsamen (Chief Knowledge Officer & Director), Russell H Ellison (Chief Scientific Officer) and David Barrett (Treasurer) among 10 officers and trustees.