Tom’s of Maine charity giveaway
Tom’s of Maine is offering a great deal for six lucky nonprofits. Through the company’s third annual “50 States for Good” program, local charities can access $150,000 ($20,000 apiece) to fund their projects. The program serves Tom’s of Maine’s mission to celebrate grassroots initiatives across our nation and aid them in their efforts to help our world. The top nonprofit, as picked by the support of the public, will pull in a $50,000 award.
As troubled times continue, our nonprofits need our volunteer support even more. So Tom’s of Maine commissioned a study through Kelton Research, which showed that 74 percent of Americans intend to give their time to make a difference for a charity or a cause in the coming year. These respondents reported plans to volunteer around 30 hours on average throughout 2011.
But having a busy schedule can be an obstacle toward one’s “do gooding.” In response, Tom’s is allowing its employees to receive paid time off of—up to 12 days per year—so they can spend time volunteering in their communities.
“Now more than ever, we can all make a difference. Whether you volunteer your time or make a donation, that support is immeasurable and can have a lasting impact on the community,” said Susan Dewhirst, goodness programs manager at Tom’s of Maine, in a press release. “There are so many important projects happening every day, in every state. This program really helps uncover the good work of so many local groups and their supporters, inspiring us to keep funding efforts that make our communities stronger.”
The rules to participate in the “50 States for Good” initiative are you must be a qualifying 501(c) 3 in good standing with an organizational operating budget less than $2 million. After all the applications have been submitted, a panel of experts will choose 20 finalists, ranking them on use of community volunteers, ability to complete their projects and overall community impact. From there, it is up to the public. Beginning early August, anyone can log on and vote online. The organizations that pull in the most votes, of course, will be declared the winners. The top winner receives $50,000.
As a leading natural personal care products company, Tom’s of Maine is big about giving back. The company gives away 10 percent of its profits to community programs. For more than 40 years, it has supported hundreds of nonprofits, funding everything from clean waterways to access to affordable dental care, with a goal of creating lasting, positive change that is good for people and the planet. Check them out online at Tom’s of Maine./a>
If you want to apply for “50 States for Good,” applications are available online until June 21 on the program’s website, www.50statesforgood.com.
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