Our Funding Priorities
Vitality Arts
Inspiring creativity in adults 55
and better
Discovery Arts
Sparking wonder through creativity
for children and youth
Humanity Arts
Enhancing homes and empowering
creativity for adults with mental illness

Founder's Message
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.
Ellen A. Michelson
Founder and President
E.A. Michelson Philanthropy