In the season of giving, Kentucky farmers can get into the holiday spirit by registering to win $2,500 for their favorite nonprofit organizations through the America’s Farmers Grow Communities? program, sponsored by the Monsanto Fund. One farmer in each of Kentucky’s 29 participating counties will win.

As the holidays are quickly approaching, so is the Dec. 31 deadline for registration. Farmers can apply online at www.growcommunities.com or by calling 1-877-267-3332 for the chance to direct $2,500 to organizations such as 4-H, FFA, local libraries or fire departments.

Farmers, age 21 and over, who are actively engaged in farming a minimum of 250 acres of corn, soybeans and/or cotton, or 40 acres of open field vegetables, or at least 10 acres of tomatoes, peppers and/or cucumbers grown in protected culture, are eligible.

Pilot programs in 10 states resulted in $1.2 million being donated to nonprofit organizations in rural communities. In addition to the $2,500 donation to a local organization, local United Way chapters will receive a $1 donation from the Monsanto Fund with each farmer sign-up, providing yet another opportunity for farmers to make a difference in their communities.

Visit www.growcommunities.com to sign up and to learn more about the America’s Farmers Grow Communities program. This opportunity is open to qualifying farmers, and no purchase is necessary in order to enter or win. Monsanto Fund will announce winning farmers and recipient organizations in February 2011.