ST. LOUIS – For the third consecutive year, America’s Farmers Grow Communities, sponsored by the Monsanto Fund, gives eligible farmers the opportunity to win a $2,500 donation to direct to their favorite local nonprofit organization. Farmers can enter now through Nov. 30 for their chance to help a nonprofit in need.

Rural community members can suggest a local nonprofit idea or initiative that needs funding in their community. Farmers may review the ideas and consider them in their entry.

Since 2010, the Monsanto Fund has invested more than $7 million in rural America through Grow Communities. In Illinois, at least $240,000 will be distributed to local nonprofit organizations among 96 counties. In 2012, Illinois farmers directed:  $57,500 to ag youth; $35,000 to fire/emergency services; $30,000 to community improvement;  $77,500 to education; and $40,000 to service organizations.