Aroha Philanthropies is now E.A. Michelson Philanthropy

Dear Friends,

After eight years, Aroha Philanthropies is changing its name to E.A. Michelson Philanthropy. While the Māori word “aroha” can convey ideas of selflessness, tolerance, kindness and compassion, which are values embedded in our founder’s philanthropic work, “aroha” is not a commonly known or used word in English. Going forward, we feel we need a name that better aligns with our identity as a small private foundation founded and led by Ellen A. Michelson.

The mission of E.A. Michelson Philanthropy will remain the same: Through funding and advocacy, we champion programs that break barriers, build community and spark creativity. We are proud to have made grants totaling more than $47 million since 2006, actively supporting nonprofit organizations across the United States through direct financial support, advocacy, partnerships, informal alliances, convenings, trainings and more – work that we will continue to do.

Our refreshed website includes a sneak preview of an exciting new creative aging initiative for art museums that will launch in spring 2022. Many of the images on our site showcase creative aging participants from our Vitality Arts grantees. To learn more about Vitality Arts programs, click here.

Best,

Ellen A. Michelson                              Teresa Bonner
Founder and President                      Executive Director