2025 Top-Rated Nonprofit

From the Heart Productions Inc

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Nonprofit Overview

Causes: Arts & Culture, Arts, Culture & Humanities

Mission: To support and educate filmmakers on funding films that are unique and make a contribution to society. To support films partially completed by gifting goods and services and cash donations to complete important historic and timely documentaries and features.

Community Stories

20 Stories from Volunteers, Donors & Supporters

3

RHesse, Client Served

Rating: 5

02/20/2023

I've been working with Carole Dean and Carole Joyce with From the Heart Productions for over ten years, on several different projects. This company offers a ton of resources, I've learned so much from Carole's classes, her book and all of her articles, as well as her podcast. She is truly an expert in the field, and always brings in phenomenal guest speakers and teachers. What really impresses me is the amount of personal attention I have gotten from both Carole Dean and Carole Joyce. Despite how many filmmakers they work with, I'm always able to get one of them on the phone or get an fast response whenever I need something for a project. My consultations with both of them have been extremely helpful. I highly recommend From the Heart to any independent filmmaker trying to make their film a reality.

mkagan Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

06/01/2025

From the Heart Productions has been a great supporter and mentor for independent filmmakers, especially those telling important stories and breaking into the industry.

Underdogsdocumentary Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

05/29/2025

Carole Joyce offered very valuable advice that helped me get my Directorial debut on PBS stations nationally, and I have found the bi-weekly classes to be transformative with my filmmaking practice.

NicholasMiano Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

02/24/2024

Carole Joyce & the entire From The Heart Productions team in all honesty are the best at what they do & genuine good hearted people. I’ve known Carole for a while now & she is truly one of my favorite people. She is very professional & brings out the best in others. She’s one of the most sweet, genuine, hardworking, & special people I know. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

separation

separation Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

02/10/2024

Hi, this is Hasan Demirtas, I am an independent filmmaker from Turkey. In 2014 I got accepted at Northwestern University for my master degree so before I went to the USA I already knew about
From the Heart Productions. From the Heart was sponsor for my documentary feature film You Name It. You Name It went to many film festivals and got award from Collected Voices Film Festival for best documentary feature film. Then From the Heart Productions granted me for my first fiction feature film Separation. Separation selected at 77th Salerno International Film Festival in 2023. That was great moments for me... Being at one of the best film festivals in the world is a great feedback for my cinema art. And From the Heart Productions was always with me at my good times and bad times...
From the Heart Productions is trying their best for the filmmakers. Lastly, my fiction feature film Separation got into 24th Annual Phoenix Film Festival in the USA! From the Heart Productions and us will be at the 24th Annual Phoenix Film Festival. Thank you From the Heart Productions. Please the fragman of Separation http://demirtashasan.com/separation.html

Forecast Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

02/07/2024

I haven’t the words to express what From The Heart Productions has given to me as a filmmaker, but let me try , unyielding encouragement and support, kindness and generosity with their knowledge, expertise and wisdom. Carole Dean, Carole Joyce and their entire team that surrounds this Non - Profit loves film making and the filmaker, we feel it , Its tangible. This feeling of not being alone or lost helps move us forward with the courage it takes to tell and make our story’s come alive as storytelling filmmakers.
Bravissimo - From The Heart Productions !!!
I couldn’t be doing such a significant and challenging documentary without you and would not have wanted to, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. You have been a God send for me… I can never express my gratitude. Paula Randol- Smith

3

LowellDarque Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

10/07/2020

The Amazing Carole Dean and From The Heart Productions, a heartfelt review

When in need of funding and film making advice, the best go to person we know is Carole Dean and From The Heart Productions.

As a filmmaker, I want to know there is someone who believes in my work and supports that work. Because Carole believes in the individual filmmaker and understands the intensity of the work, both in the monetary costs of making a movie and the personal dedication it takes to bring a story to life through images and sound, she dedicates herself to helping every filmmaker achieve success, to bring their story to the screen (large or small), and above all she dedicates herself to the process of film making, and the individual's creativity.

Carole’s years of experience and dedication have proven to be invaluable. She cares for the creative filmmaker in so many ways. She gives her full attention to each filmmaker that shows initiative, has a well written story to tell, and is in need of professional help and guidance. Carole’s wealth of knowledge and information allowed us to tap into resources and funding we were not aware of. Her knowledge helped guide us around the many pitfalls that might have halted our production.

Thank you, Carole and From The Heart Productions for all you’ve done for us and so many other filmmakers.

Michael and Marian Hofstein, Producers
21 September. 2020

2

Wiggins Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 1

08/25/2020

If you are a filmmaker (except for a documentary filmmaker) and have or are considering applying for a Roy Dean Grant (From The Heart Productions) you should know the facts regarding this organization BEFORE you apply.

98% of the films awarded a Roy Dean Grant in the past 5+ years have all been ‘documentaries’ despite thousands of short, narrative, Web/TV applicants that have applied from around the globe. Despite the fact that this organization boasts about the great things it has does to support filmmakers of all kinds, and aims to support outstanding films, it has misled earnest filmmakers into believing they actually have an equitable fighting chance of being considered for a grant.

The fact is applications are accepted worldwide - including from countries that offer truly generous subsidies to artists of all kinds that the U.S does not offer. The reason? The more applicants, the more application fees they collect.

Soon after applying, you’ll receive emails from Carole D., the President, who, despite your film not being selected, announces that she has GREAT news — she has a solution to your funding problem — BUY HER BOOK and better yet, sign-up for HER CLASS and she’ll teach you how to get your film funded!!

In addition, if you wish her organization will be your fiscal sponsor (naturally so they can collect more fees from those who will donate to your film). You’ll be invited to speak with Carole for 15 minutes (ultimately a sales pitch) where she’ll discuss what the judge determined was wrong with either your project, or application, but don’t fret good filmmaker, bravely carry-on and apply again (AND AGAIN) because that is what most filmmakers do!

Filmmakers we know who have applied for a RDG, and received their 15 min. film/application ‘review’ also received some of the most ridiculous (laughable) reasons their film/application was eliminated (probably because it was NOT a documentary) — often over easily clarified, minute oversights made by their (novice) judge. We’re talking applicants who are professional filmmakers who have spent years on the front lines doing the heavy lifting it takes to make films (not novice students). Adding insult to injury while listening to the remarks, it becomes clear that the judge has never written or made a film in their his/her life.

Despite this organization’s altruistic boasting, earnest, hard working filmmakers are being misled due to the lack of transparency. And the sad truth is this is not a unique situation. The industry is chock full of bottom dwellers disguised as friends of filmmakers and writers who ultimately take advantage of them only to have books and/or expensive classes shoved under their noses.

Another troubling issue with this organization, ALL film categories / applications whether shorts, documentary, feature or Web/TV series are lumped into one big pile. This, in no way, is fair to filmmakers. A documentary should not compete against a short or Web/TV series.

If you bring these issues to the attention of the President, Carole D., you will most certainly NOT get a straight answer even when it is justifiable to question the reason(s) your application/film was eliminated. She will artfully turn it around in such a way that, you, the applicant are the cause of your project being eliminated despite evidence that clearly states otherwise. Even when it is a truly outstanding socially meaningful, timely project. Yup, folks, what a web the Roy Dean Grant organization weaves. Careful that you don’t fall into it. It is as one reviewer wrote, RDG is a facade.

Having undergone this process several times, and knowing others who have as well, we told Ms. Dean that she can judge but that it is no longer her prerogative alone. Consequently, after thoroughly reviewing the Roy Dean Grant / From The Heart Productions that claims to be a non-profit (although that is questionable) is deemed worthy of a grade “F”.

Comments ( 1 )

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richka 09/13/2020

Thank you for your feedback on your recent interaction with the Roy W. Dean Grant. We are very sorry that you did not have a good experience. A major concern you expressed was having the short film you submitted judged against submissions of documentary, feature films, and web series. Please know that our board took your concern to heart. Beginning in 2021, we will have a new grant exclusively for short films. Expect something on our website by January. We are sorry too you felt the consultation you received on your grant submission was unsatisfactory. It is disappointing to hear as nearly all our reviews we receive from filmmakers on their consultations are extremely positive and mention the great help we provided. Please know that we send a monthly newsletter only to those who opt-in. We include stories on manifesting success, film funding, and our grant. We also send emails with discounts on our classes. Please opt out if you do not like the content or frequency.

Poems Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 1

06/27/2020

All they really want is for you to pay your "processing fee" so they can then take your email to try and sell you Carole Dean's books, classes etc. Such BS. Having dealt with Carole, she hides behind 'grants' when what it turns out to be is a total SCAM. And for your 'fee' you get a useless conversation about what was wrong with your 'story' or ' application'. More BS. Having submitted and won several grants over the years, and award winning scripts, I knew when it was 'disqualified' in just a few days from the time it was submitted that there was something fishy. A TOTAL waste of your time and money. Don't fall for it. She sounds sweet but it's all a showy sales pitch that some obscure film/documentary about bugs or flowers gets selected. No doubt friends of theirs.

Comments ( 1 )

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richka 08/02/2020

We are sorry for what you felt was a poor experience applying for our Roy W. Dean Grant. We appreciate you as an artist and thank you for applying. We are very proud of the exceptional films chosen to win our grant over the last 28 years. Our judges need to make many difficult choices when reviewing submissions and we’re sorry you felt your rejection was hasty. Many of our applicants have told us that they get very useful information out of our consultations as well as our mailings. We are sorry your consultation did not meet your expectations.

EventsByBILLIEJEAN Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

02/21/2020

Carol Joyce was an amazing Executive Producer and like me was SO detailed oriented! I have to thank you for helping me making the BEST memories. She has the most awesome team as well!

christinaalexanderpetersen Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

02/21/2020

I just love this organization. They have so much useful information. They are so informative and they always help me find a new perspective to work from.

cindajackson Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

02/20/2020

Sometimes people get it right. FTH Productions and their Roy W. Dean Film Grants are a great example of this phenomenon. The growth and progress of this nonprofit is beyond inspiring. Led by innovator Carole Dean, this organization has embraced and championed what diversity is all about. I have witnessed their mission in action, their dedication to helping filmmakers complete projects and get them in front of audiences. For over 25 years, the Roy W. Dean Grant-winning films have garnered awards and truly made a positive impact on our world. Congratulations to the passionate independent filmmakers and kudos to Carole Dean, Carole Joyce, and From the Heart Productions!

4

Kelly G.3 Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

04/25/2019

From the Heart Productions has been very hands. They are a 501(c)3 non-profit dedicated to helping filmmakers get their projects funded and made.
Besides providing funding through the grant, they are also a fiscal sponsor which allows donations made to films they sponsor to be tax deductible. They also provide a weekly pod cast with discussions and training to educate and inspire film makers.
Always in the Art,
Professor Kelly Galindo
26secondsdoc.com

3

dutchmn007 Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

04/23/2019

I have been working closely with Ms. Carole Joyce on a project & I can truly state the truth: she is an incredibly giving & nurturing individual. I approached From The Heart Productions with a project & not only did they see the value in it but have picked it up & are in the process of bringing it to fruition. I give them the highest recommendation humanly possible!!! They are truly a rare entity. Bottom line: they care about the filmmaker & their project!!! How many entities these days can honestly say that?

Looking earnestly forward to a long lasting relationship with From The Heart Productions. They are very, very special people. If you have the great fortune to work with them, that will become obvious rather quickly ;

1

tree5027 Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

05/09/2018

For my first documentary I was concerned about funding and where I would get guidance on how to finalize the project. With a topic like autism and such an important precedence I was hoping to find some mentors or guidance of some kind, but at first I didn't know where to find the right fit. After researching From the Heart Productions I realized they had so much helpful information and guidance available for filmmakers. I immediately applied for their grant and stated on the plethora of web content and shows they had posted online. Carol Dean was extremely helpful in guiding me through the grant process and even though we didn't get the first one applied for it eventually came through. This grant also launched us into many other creative relationships that have been very educational and productive toward the documentary. Carol takes careful time to help guide each filmmaker in the direction you need to find the answers that matter. Highly recommend checking out all of the online resources and applying for the grant. Take the pitch classes and refine all the skills needed to get the film into the hands of those who matter most!

3

Writer Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

05/06/2018

Things didn't start happening for our modest production company until we were awarded a Fiscal Sponsorship from From the Heart Productions. Then everything fell into place. From the Heart is an amazing organization and I highly recommend any aspiring filmmaker check them out. They offer quarterly grants that offer thousands of dollars in cash and production services. Carole's "The Art of Film Funding" is a must read for raising money for film productions. And their Fiscal Sponsorship allows filmmakers to raise funds and possibly acquire other corporate sponsorships, such as product donations for independent, low budget productions. The entire staff is absolutely amazing to work with--super nice, total professionals--who really want you to succeed. From the Heart has been absolutely essential to my success and I could not have done it without them!!

2

Goodmovies Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

02/07/2018

From the Heart Productions, Inc., under the leadership of Carole Dean, has been a key supporter of independent filmmakers like myself for decades. Their grants are frequently the first money and support given a project--which is always the hardest to get and which then can make getting support later from other organizations easier. They continue to offer support services throughout the life of the project--from fiscal sponsorship, pitching, funding and other training classes, to plain old moral support and encouragement along the long road of indie filmmaking. There isn't a better partner for filmmaker than From the Heart Productions, Inc. and Carole Dean, who truly gives "From the Heart" it's heart.

Aims007 Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

05/08/2017

From The Heart Productions offers Film Grants, Fiscal Sponsorship, Film Funding Courses, Private Consulting, and a Fundraising Platform to filmmakers who want to get their films made. Their team is helpful and friendly and their aim really is for your film to succeed. From The Heart awards three Roy W. Dean grants per year, which include a ton of film services for pre, production, and post, so the grant winner's project has the resources to get completed. This non-profit is truly focused on helping indie filmmakers obtain funding for their unique films.

FTHFSP Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

05/07/2017

I have been working with From The Heart Productions for several years - first as a member of the Carole Dean's group the "Intentional Filmmaking class". Following my second round in the class, From The Heart Productions became my Fiscal Sponsor on two of my projects.. I choose this non-profit as a Fiscal Sponsor among several others, for the intimate attention and hands-on designed advices each film and filmmaker are offered on their journey. Tools are tools but Its President Carole Dean, not only closely follows each filmmaker through their process but continually offers advice and alternative approaches to fundraising and distribution. The access to discounts on film services are also a huge plus! What I love the most about Carole Dean is her unorthodox, intuitive guidance about following the unbeaten paths facing all of us in this process.

zbocian Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

07/20/2016

I first interacted with FTH when I submitted for their film production grant last year. Although, my proposal didn't end up working out Carole and her team were more than accommodating. They are seasoned, professional and generous.

2

Writer Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 1

02/13/2016

I have done countless hours of researching From The Heart Productions and aside from their own website tooting their own horn, or a directory that lists non-profits without doing any real background investigating on them, I can't find not one lick of credible information on this company. I am however coming up with red flag after red flag. I am writing this to advise other filmmakers seeking fiscal support that this company can not be verified as legit, not with the Better Business Bureau, not with any filmmakers that I've asked, and I've asked hundreds, including communities of filmmakers. Not one lick of credible evidence. I am calling into question any website directory that lists them as a "great nonprofit" - how much research have you done on this outfit? I bet fist over dollar it's a scam. Who is Carole Dean? Why do none of the credible and established producers and directors I know have a clue who she is? All this company can do for you is giving you tips on how to crowd fund. And anyone who tells you to crowd fund for your film is telling to you act like a bum and beg your friends & family for their pennies. Scam! RED FLAG SCAM!

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