Tom's of Maine Offers The Public A Simple Way To Help Their Favorite Nonprofits Gain Funding

KENNEBUNK, Maine, June 11, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Are you inspired by a nonprofit in your community? Wish you had more time or resources to support local nonprofit community service projects? Tom's of Maine is offering simple ways to give back to communities through its 50 States for Good program. Anyone who is energized by the work of local nonprofit organizations can nominate their favorite for a chance to share in $150,000 in funding.  Fifteen organizations will be awarded $10,000 each, as determined by a public vote in September. Nominations can be made beginning today at www.50statesforgood.com through July 8, 2013 via a short essay.  

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Now in its fifth year, 50 States for Good celebrates and rewards nonprofit organizations committed to meaningful change and work that addresses local needs.  This year's program presents individuals with an opportunity to help their favorite nonprofit organization secure funding. Fifty-one finalists – one from each state and the District of Columbia – will be chosen by a panel of independent judges from the pool of nominees and the public will vote for the winners.

"For the first time, we're inviting any individual who's passionate about a nonprofit to make a nomination," said Susan Dewhirst, public relations and goodness programs manager at Tom's of Maine.  "The best part is we've made it easy for anyone to give back to their community by nominating their favorite nonprofit."

In past years, Tom's of Maine has funded 50 States for Good projects that have built community playgrounds, maintained sustainable nature trails, provided shelter and food for the homeless and cared for animals, among many other initiatives.

Additional 50 States for Good program information and terms and conditions are available at www.50statesforgood.com.

Tom's of Maine offers every employee 5% of paid time off, up to 12 days a year, to volunteer in their community. The company is a longtime supporter of community programs including greater access to affordable dental care and other initiatives focused on healthy living and caring for the planet.  In addition, Tom's of Maine donates 10% of its profits back to the communities.

About Tom's of Maine
Tom's of Maine is a leading natural products company focused on oral and personal care carrying high quality toothpaste, mouthwash, dental floss, deodorant and bar soap products. The company has a long-standing commitment to supporting people, communities and the living planet. For over 42 years, TOMs has sponsored hundreds of nonprofit efforts by giving 10% of its profits back to organizations that support human and environmental goodness and by encouraging employees to use 5% (12 days) of employee time to volunteer. TOMs employees regularly contribute suggestions for improving the company's high sustainability standards. And their ideas, from wind power to ways to improve recycled and recyclable packaging options, are critical to the company's sensitive way of doing business. Tom's of Maine products are vegan, Kosher, halal-certified and all packaging is recyclable through a partnership with upcycling leader TerraCycle or participating municipalities. Tom's of Maine enjoys partnering with its consumers, vendors and community organizations to support lasting, positive change that is good for people and the planet. Visit us online at http://www.tomsofmaine.com/ or at http://www.facebook.com/TomsofMaine.

SOURCE Tom's of Maine