Submitted by Melanie Bakala, State Farm Agent
Melanie Bakala, agent for State Farm, is happy to announce that State Farm Neighborhood Assist is back for its ninth year in 2020. This year has been like no other in recent history, and $25,000 could make a big impact at a time when non-profits and the communities they serve need it most. Due to the many challenges facing our nation right now, we’re removing all category requirements for submissions this year. This action will free up communities to submit causes to address their greatest needs.
The program will continue to award $25,000 grants to 40 nonprofit organizations to help fund neighborhood improvement projects.
According to a recent State Farm research study, one-quarter of respondents say that they are “extremely” or “very” involved in trying to improve their neighborhood and six-in-ten are trying to improve their neighborhood in some capacity.
State Farm Neighborhood Assist can be a catalyst for that change.
Here’s how the program works:
Submission Phase: Starts July 15 and ends when 2,000 submissions are reached
Individuals can submit a cause at www.neighborhoodassist.com starting July 15. You can prepare now by going to the website and downloading the submission guide. The first 2,000 submissions will be accepted. The State Farm Review Committee will then narrow the field to the Top 200 finalists using a scoring rubric.
Voting Phase: September 23-October 2
Ultimately, voters will decide which community improvement projects win big. The public will have a chance to vote 10 times a day, every day for 10 days, from Sept. 23-Oct. 2, for their favorite causes from the list of finalists. Voting will take place at www.neighborhoodassist.com.
Winners Announced: November 4
The 40 causes that receive the most votes will each win a $25,000 grant. Winners will be announced on Wednesday, Nov. 4, at www.neighborhoodassist.com.
“Grant programs that address community needs, like Neighborhood Assist, are more important than ever,” said Melanie. “This initiative truly embodies the spirit of being a Good Neighbor.”
Last year, 163,000 people cast 4.4 million votes in support of their favorite causes, selecting winners from small towns and big cities.
Since the program began, State Farm has awarded $8 million in support of more than 300 causes.
