Nominate Your Favorite Nonprofit to Win $10,000 from Tom's of Maine

Now in its sixth year, the Tom’s of Maine 50 States for Good program rewards grassroots nonprofits with a total of $500,000 in project funding. But the natural personal care brand doesn't pluck these groups out of thin air -- it allows the public to weigh in on how funding is dispersed through a simple online nomination.

Nominations are open to anyone 18 years of age or older – including nonprofit representatives and supporters. Any qualifying 501(c)3 nonprofit in good standing with an operating budget under $2 million is eligible for nomination.

After the nomination period ends on Sept. 30, an independent panel of judges will pick the winners. This year, for the first time, the program will feature 51 winners across the country, one from each state and the District of Columbia -- bringing this year's project funding total to $510,000.

In addition to nominating a nonprofit, participants can also show their support and make an immediate impact on revitalizing a distressed park in Detroit with just a few clicks. Also new for 2014, Tom's is asking consumers to be “Virtual Volunteers” and use their collective social media power to bring much-needed park equipment to Knudsen Park along Detroit’s historic 8 Mile Boulevard.

Participants can visit 50StatesforGood.com and use the social sharing buttons to show their support for park needs ranging from swing sets to picnic tables. Renovations will be made possible by consumer support online and a $25,000 donation from Tom's to the nonprofit Eight Mile Boulevard Association, the company said.

"Our partnership with Tom's of Maine and the community embodies the way we pursue progress through collaboration,” Jordan Twardy, Eight Mile Boulevard Association executive director, said in a statement. “Together, we’ve attracted new interest, energy and commitment to revitalize and preserve this highly symbolic Detroit park. We are proud to join with Tom's and breathe new life into a space where Detroiters of all ages can gather with pride."

Over the past five years, the 50 States for Good program has provided $650,000 in funding to build playgrounds, support community gardens, maintain sustainable nature trails, provide shelter and food for the homeless and care for animals, among many other initiatives, the company said.

“There’s a desire inside each of us to bring a little more goodness to our communities, which is why we’re really excited to provide funding to a nonprofit in every state and the District of Columbia for the first time,” Susan Dewhirst, goodness programs manager at Tom’s of Maine, said in a statement. “Whether you want to say 'thank you' to an inspiring nonprofit in your community or join us in rooting for Detroit, it’s easy to make a difference.”

Click here to nominate your favorite nonprofit to receive $10,000 in funding from Tom's of Maine. The nomination period ends on Tuesday, Sept. 30. 

Image courtesy of Tom's of Maine 50 States for Good

Based in Philadelphia, Mary Mazzoni is a senior editor at TriplePundit. She is also on the judging panel for this year's 50 States for Good and can't wait to learn more about your favorite nonprofits! You can follow her on Twitter @mary_mazzoni.