FOXBOROUGH, Mass. - The New England Patriots are currently accepting nominations for the 2011 Community MVP Awards program.

The Community MVP Awards honor individuals who exemplify leadership, dedication and a commitment to improving their communities through volunteerism. Through the program, nonprofit organizations throughout New England have the opportunity to nominate and recognize their hard-working volunteers for the invaluable time and support they provide to their communities.

Twenty-one MVPs will be selected, including one grand prize winner of $10,000, five winners of $5,000 and 15 winners of $1,500. The money will be awarded to the nonprofit organization for which each honoree volunteers. Winners will also be honored at the Community MVP luncheon at Gillette Stadium in June where they will receive their awards. Additionally, the New England Patriots Charitable Foundation will visit the top six organizations to recognize and honor the winners.

In 2010, the New England Patriots Charitable Foundation and Fidelity Investments donated more than $50,000 to local organizations via the Community MVP Awards. Camp Ta-Kum-Ta, a non-profit organization which exists for Vermont children who have or had cancer between the ages of 7-17 received $10,000 in the name of Wade Walker, the 2010 overall winner.

New England residents who are 13 years of age or older who provide volunteer services for nonprofit 501(c) (3) organizations are eligible for nomination. Only one nominee may be considered from each organization. The strongest applicants will be hands-on volunteers who do not receive any compensation -- monetary or otherwise -- for their efforts. Winners will be selected by the New England Patriots Charitable Foundation.

Nonprofit organizations may nominate volunteers by completing the application found here. Completed applications must be received by April 30, 2011.

About the New England Patriots Charitable Foundation
The New England Patriots Charitable Foundation is the nonprofit organization established by the Kraft family in 1994 to support charitable and philanthropic agencies throughout New England. This support comes in the form of direct grants and the donation of signed memorabilia to charitable causes, as well as from Patriots players who offer their direct support by appearing at charity functions throughout the year. The foundation's primary goal is to support programs that aid the youth and families of the New England region by assisting programs that foster cultural diversity, education, family and health. The foundation has taken special interest in youth programs that encourage education, creativity and development of character. For more information about the New England Patriots Charitable Foundation, please click here.

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