KENNEBUNK, Maine, April 21, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Celebrating grassroots goodness efforts nationwide is the ongoing mission of the Tom's of Maine annual "50 States for Good" program. The initiative, which rewards five 501(c)3 organizations with $20,000 each, will also add a $50,000 single award this year for one nonprofit that earns the most support from the general public. Online applications are available through June 21 at www.50statesforgood.com.

Despite the economic downturn and a decrease in private and federal funding, there's good news for America's non-profits, always in need of volunteer support. According to a study conducted by Kelton Research for Tom's of Maine, more than seven in ten (74%) Americans plan to volunteer their time to help a charity or cause in 2011. These citizens intend to give an average of 30 hours of their time over the coming year. To help its own employees find the time to volunteer, Tom's of Maine offers every individual 5% of paid time off, up to 12 days a year, to volunteer in their local community or beyond.

"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. "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."

Tom's of Maine's "50 States for Good" initiative invites community volunteers to share the news that any qualifying 501(c) 3 in good standing with an organizational operating budget under $2 million can apply. Following the application phase, a panel of experts will select 20 finalists based on criteria including use of community volunteers, ability to get the project completed and community impact. The six winners will be determined by a public online vote starting in early August, 2011. The organization with the most votes will receive $50,000 in sponsorship funding; five additional organizations will each receive $20,000. Each finalist, along with their project, will be showcased at tomsofmaine.com during the voting phase.  For details about the program please visit: www.50statesforgood.com

Tom's of Maine is a longtime supporter of community involvement programs including clean waterways and greater access to affordable dental care, among many other programs. In addition, since its inception, the company has donated 10% of its profits back to the community.

About Tom's of Maine
Tom's of Maine is a leading natural products company focused on oral and personal care. TOMs sells high-quality toothpaste, mouthwash, dental floss, deodorant, bar soap, and body wash products.  TOMs products are Kosher and Halal certified.  The company has a long-standing commitment to supporting people, communities and the living planet. For over 40 years, Tom's of Maine has sponsored hundreds of non-profit efforts by giving 10% of its profits back to the community and encouraging employees to use 5% (12 days) of employee time to volunteer. Tom's of Maine 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 enjoys partnering with its consumers, vendors and community organizations to support lasting, positive change 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