The Ellen Hermanson Foundation was established in 1997 to honor the memory of Ellen Hermanson and carry on the important work to which she devoted so much of her time and energy. An activist and an advocate, Ellen channeled her journalistic talents to become a forceful voice for breast cancer patients and their families. She educated her readers about the importance of early detection, the challenges of living with breast cancer, the very real but little-discussed or understood issue of pain management, and the debilitating effects of breast cancer on the entire family.

The Ellen Hermanson Foundation is unique in its commitment to helping breast cancer patients and their families cope with the physical and emotional aspects of breast cancer. No patient is turned away from the Ellen Hermanson Breast Center for lack of insurance or inability to pay for treatment. All services though Ellen’s Well are provided free of charge.

Mission Statement

The Ellen Hermanson Foundation ensures access to state-of-the-art breast health care and empowers people affected by cancer. The Foundation primarily serves breast cancer patients on the East End of Long Island, New York, and  fulfills its mission by focusing on two areas:

  • providing educational outreach about the importance of early detection, and access to mammography and treatment to medically underserved communities

  • funding psychosocial support services that address the broad range of issues facing breast cancer patients, survivors, spouses, families, and friends

Ellen's Run

Ellen’s Run, an annual 5k (3.1-mile) race, is the signature fundraising event of The Ellen Hermanson Foundation and an innovative, grassroots event, that raises awareness about breast cancer. Held on the East End of Long Island, where breast cancer diagnosis and mortality rates are among the highest in the state of New York, Ellen’s Run draws on the strength of the community and gives back by providing mammography screenings, support and education. Proceeds from Ellen’s Run support the Ellen Hermanson Breast Center at Southampton Hospital by funding state-of-the-art technology. Ellen’s Run also supports Ellen’s Well, a program that provides psychosocial support for breast cancer survivors under the leadership of a specially trained oncological social worker.

Ellen’s Run is a family event, aimed at both serious runners—women and men alike—and casual runners, as well as walkers and supporters of all ages. It engenders camaraderie and community as participants support or memorialize a loved one. Breast cancer survivors are recognized and applauded for their courage. A special prize is awarded to the first breast cancer survivor to finish the race. Those who have been touched by the disease or the specter of the disease have the chance to take a positive step.

The First Annual Ellen’s Run attracted more than 500 participants and raised more than $62,000—an astonishing success for a first-time event. By the third year, the amount of money raised had more than doubled. By its fourth year, Ellen's Run had become the largest race on the South Fork, with nearly 900 registered participants. As we approach our 22nd year, Ellen’s Run has grown to over 1,000 participants and The Ellen Hermanson Foundation has awarded more than $4 million in grants.

The Ellen P. Hermanson Foundation was incorporated under the not-for-profit laws of the State of New York and is exempt from taxation under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Donations to The Ellen P. Hermanson Foundation are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. Copies of the Foundation's Form 990 are available at www.guidestar.org. A copy of the Foundation's Form 990 for the past five tax years may also be obtained by calling 631-907-1952 to request a copy.

The Ellen P. Hermanson Foundation respects its donors' rights to privacy and confidentiality and does not release any information pertaining to its donors without their express written permission.