Toyota Tuesday announced a $3.5 million grant to The National Audubon Society to extend Toyota TogetherGreen, a national initiative that invests in emerging conservation leaders and funds innovative community-based conservation projects throughout the United States.

The deadline for applications is June 7.

Now in its sixth year, Toyota TogetherGreen has engaged nearly 370,000 people in conservation action to date.

In 2013, Toyota TogetherGreen will continue to support:

-- Fellowships: Forty Toyota TogetherGreen Fellows will receive $10,000 grants as well as specialized training and support to help develop and implement 12-month conservation projects in their communities;

-- Innovation Grants: Up to 40 TogetherGreen Innovation Grants ranging from $5,000-$80,000 will be given to support cutting-edge conservation projects that address habitat, wildlife, water, or energy issues in local communities; and

-- Exit the Highway: A summertime digital campaign will inspire people to get outdoors and spend more time in nature. By submitting scenic photos of nature, participants can enter to win a Toyota Prius v. To learn more, visit the Exit The Highway wesbsite.   

"Because of Toyota's support, conservationists across the U.S. are incubating new approaches to creating healthier communities," said David Yarnold , Audubon President. "Toyota TogetherGreen has helped jumpstart great programs, leaders, and ideas by providing funding, professional development, and a support network to scale conservation work for even more significant results."

"At Toyota, our commitment to the environment is built into everything we do so we are thrilled to support Toyota TogetherGreen for its sixth year," said Patricia Salas Pineda , Group Vice President, National Philanthropy and the Toyota USA Foundation.  "By engaging diverse communities and supporting emerging leaders in conservation action, Toyota TogetherGreen is playing a vital role in helping the environmental movement reach its full potential and achieve its most important goals." 

Audubon and Toyota created the Toyota TogetherGreen initiative in 2008 through a $20 million grant from Toyota. The program has expanded the scope and reach of Audubon's conservation action nationwide with impressive results—15 million gallons of water conserved, 188,931 native trees and plants planted, 17,357 acres restored or conserved and more than 1,000 tons of recyclables collected.

Funding recipients have multiplied their impact by translating their dollars into $7.2 million in matching funds and $8.8 million worth of volunteer time.

To apply, visit the Toyota TogetherGreen Fellowship or TogetherGreen Innovation Grant webpages for application guidelines, selection criteria, eligibility, benefits, and online applications for both programs.

4/15/2013