OVERVIEW: The D J McManus Foundation primarily contributes to nonprofits involved in the arts, education, human services, and fortifying communities. It has also earmarked funds for women’s causes and the environment.
IP TAKE: The foundation lacks transparency, which limits information available on its grantmaking priorities and activities.
PROFILE: The D J McManus Foundation was established in 1999. It was established by media mogul Jason D. McManus and his wife Deborah, who serves as president of the foundation. Jason McManus was once managing editor of Time magazine. While the foundation does not maintain a website, it does have a minor web presence. The foundation primarily contributes to nonprofits involved in the arts, education, human services, and fortifying communities. It has also earmarked funds for women’s causes and the environment.
Deborah is a classical pianist and founded SoHarmoniums, a SoHo not-for-profit choir of some 60 women, which the family supports. The foundation runs a program called “Eleanor’s Outings,” named after Deborah’s mother, providing excursions to the theatre for seniors.
Important Grant Details:
Grants range from $100 to $75,000. In a recent fiscal year, the foundation gave away around $640,000. Past grantees included Vassar College (the couple’s son Sophie is an alumna), Young People Chorus of New York City, The Met, Lawyers for Children, BronxWorks, Queens Community House, Scenic Hudson, ProPublica, and Mount Vernon Ladies Association.
While the foundation keeps a low profile, it does accept requests. Requests should be submitted on corporate letterhead, with funding requirements and specific uses for grants. The foundation does not have submission deadlines or restrictions on awards.
PEOPLE:
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CONTACT:
Deborah McManus
420 West Broadway, PH A
New York, NY 10012
(212) 874-7426