Voting is now live for the Tom's of Maine "50 States for Good" initiative, which was created to reward non-profit organizations focused on lasting, positive change. Fifty finalists are featured at www.50statesforgood.com, where the public can learn more about community efforts around the country and vote to determine which five projects will split $100,000 in funding.

"Nobody knows better where funds are needed and should be directed than the public that will benefit from them," said Rob Robinson, director of common good partnerships at Tom's of Maine. "We received more than 2,000 applications from all 50 states. The overwhelming response to this program showed that there's great interest in solving community needs together. We're inspired by the good work happening across the country and excited to see our funding in action and share the community impact."

Applications were narrowed down by a panel of judges based on the positive impact, achievability and level of community involvement of the project submitted. The judging panel was composed of key leaders of the non-profit community including Robert Egger, founder of the DC Central Kitchen and V3 Campaign director; Zach Frechette, editor in chief of GOOD Magazine; Darius Graham, author of Being the Difference: True Stories of Ordinary People Doing Extraordinary Things to Change the World; Sam Davidson, founder of CoolPeopleCare.org; Geri Weis Corbley, founder and editor/publisher of the Good News Network.

Voting concludes on October 30 with the winners announced in November. Five projects will each receive $20,000 in financial support from Tom's of Maine.

Tom's of Maine has a long history of supporting local communities with a focus on clean waterways and greater access to quality, affordable dental care. After 40 years of donating 10% of its profits back to the community, this year the company earmarked $100,000 for the public to direct towards grassroots initiatives important to them.

About Tom's of Maine
Tom's of Maine is a leader in natural personal care with a longstanding commitment to supporting people, communities and the living planet. For almost 40 years, the company has sponsored hundreds of non-profit efforts by giving 10% of its profits back to the community and encouraging employees to volunteer by giving 5% paid time off. Each day, Tom's of Maine employees contribute to high sustainability standards and their ideas from wind power to recycled and recyclable packaging are critical to the company's sensitive way of doing business. Tom's of Maine enjoys partnering with its consumers, vendors and many community organizations to support lasting, positive change that is good for the earth and us all.

Tom's of Maine

Tom's of Maine

Tom's of Maine has been making safe, effective natural personal care products for 49 years. It all began when Tom and Kate Chappell moved to Maine in 1968 looking for a healthier, simpler life for their growing family. And when they couldn't find personal care products that were free from artificial flavors, fragrances, sweeteners, colors and preservatives, they decided to make their own. Tom's of Maine products - including toothpaste, deodorant, mouthwash, antiperspirant, bar soap, body wash, dental floss, and toothbrushes - are made from naturally sourced and naturally derived ingredients and never tested on animals. A Certified B Corporation, Tom’s of Maine is committed to upholding a purpose-driven business and has a long-standing commitment to supporting nature and healthy families. Tom's of Maine has supported hundreds of nonprofits by giving back 10% of its profits, and employees are encouraged to use 5% of their paid time (12 days) volunteering for causes they are passionate about. Most Tom's of Maine products are vegan, kosher, halal-certified and gluten-free. All packaging is recyclable through a partnership with upcycling leader TerraCycle or participating municipalities.

Visit us online at http://www.tomsofmaine.com/ or at http://www.facebook.com/TomsofMaine.

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