Philly Organization Won $20K

From North Carolina to Washington state and with more than 200,000 votes in between, Tom’s of Maine announced the six winning nonprofits that will share $150,000 in funding as part of its third annual “50 States for Good” program.

The winning grassroots projects, as voted on by the public, range from reforestation initiatives and an environmental dance program to free dental care and a friendship network. All demonstrate the impact smaller-sized nonprofit organizations can make in our communities.

In the $20,000 spot was The Friendship Circle of Philadelphia Region-South, serving Philadelphia, Montgomery, Chester and Delaware Counties and run by Shluchim Rabbi Zev and Chana Baram.

The Philly Friendship pairs teen volunteers and children with special needs for activities ranging from weekly play dates at home to structured weekend programs to holiday celebrations.

“Funding will allow an increase in volunteers who help form real friendships that enrich the community and promote empathy,” the organization said.

COLlive.com has encouraged readers to vote in this contest.