3.10.2008 - 04:08pm ET

(CSRwire) PLEASANTVILE, NY - March 10, 2008 - The Reader's Digest Foundation announced today that it will donate $1 million to nonprofit organizations through a new initiative called "Make it Matter." Grants will be inspired by individuals who are taking action and giving back to their communities in significant ways. Every month, the Foundation will select one individual's story of good deeds done and grant $100,000 to a nonprofit organization in honor of that individual. Reader’s Digest magazine will then feature that person in its new column, "Make it Matter." The public can submit stories for consideration to http://www.rd.com/foundation.

The first “Make it Matter” grant recipient is the United Negro College Fund (UNCF). The UNCF grant was made in honor of Ella Avery-Smothers, a highly successful business owner who credits the scholarship she received from the UNCF with enabling her to attend college and changing her life. Today, Ms. Avery-Smothers gives education scholarships to her employees, bringing the legacy of the UNCF’s original grant full circle. Her story is told in the inaugural “Make it Matter” column in the April issue of Reader's Digest.

“‘Make it Matter’ recognizes the power of the individual to make a difference, a theme which is being brought into focus during this presidential election year,” said Eva Dillon, Readers's Digest Foundation board member and President, Group Publisher, RD Inspiration. “Through these ten $100,000 grants, the Reader’s Digest Foundation extends the spirit of the profound contributions being made by extraordinary citizens.”

Submissions for "Make it Matter" will be accepted by the Foundation on a rolling basis throughout 2008.

About The Reader’s Digest Foundation:

The Reader's Digest Foundation, started in 1938, is dedicated to creating opportunities and promoting efforts that encourage individuals to make a positive difference in their communities, and to supporting programs designed to help young people learn, grow and enrich their lives. RDF makes grants to nonprofit organizations to support the good works of individuals in their communities and to nonprofit partners focused on youth development and education. The Foundation also partners with nonprofits to create workplace opportunities for Reader's Digest Association employees to volunteer their time and share their expertise. To learn how you can support the Make it Matter program, please visit www.rd.com/foundation.

For more information please contact: