Deadline Nearing for America's Farmers Grow Communities ProjectTo Help Communities During Tough Economy
ST. LOUIS (Feb. 5, 2010) - In this tough economic climate, fundraising can be particularly challenging for many non-profit organizations. But now, agricultural youth groups as well as civic organizations across Iowa can enlist support from local farmers to win a $2,500 award. The application process for farmers is simple. With the deadline fast approaching, they just need to visit www.growcommunities.com and fill out a short form by Feb. 28, 2010.
The America's Farmers Grow Communities Project is a pilot program that enables farmers throughout Iowa and in parts of Arkansas and Missouri to enter a local agricultural organization or other non-profit community group to win a donation. Monsanto Company, the program sponsor, will award one $2,500 donation in each of the eligible counties, which include all 99 Iowa counties amounting to nearly $250,000 in statewide funding.
"Although only farmers can submit an award application, we're also encouraging eligible community organizations to approach farmers they know to ask to be entered," said John Raines, Monsanto Vice President of Customer Advocacy. "From looking at the entries coming in, we are impressed by the diversity of very worthwhile community groups that are important to Iowa farmers."
Ag youth organizations, such as 4-H and FFA, account for many of farmer entries received to date. Other community groups also receiving a high number of entries include schools, libraries, fire departments and emergency medical services, economic development groups, hospitals and community centers.
To participate, Iowa farmers must be age 21 and over and be actively engaged in farming a minimum of 250 acres of corn and/or soybeans. The application period runs through Feb. 28, 2010. The program is open to all qualifying farmers, and there is no purchase requirement.
Farmers can apply online or request a copy of the official rules of the award program at www.growcommunities.com, by calling 1.877.267.3332 or by sending a self-addressed, stamped envelope to America's Farmers Grow Communities Project, 914 Spruce St., St. Louis, Mo. 63102.
