OLD TOWN – Allstate agent Mark Farnham presented Bangor American Red Cross with a $500 grant as part of the Allstate Foundation’s “Agency Hands in the Community” program.

The program, which began in 2003, recognizes Allstate agents’ volunteerism within the community and provides financial support to organizations through the Allstate Foundation.

Every Allstate agent who volunteers for a charitable organization in his or her community may qualify for this award.

“The very fabric of Allstate consists of people who care about their local community,” said Stephanie Demchik-Pascual, Northeast region director for the Allstate Foundation. “The Agency Hands in the Community program is a powerful way for Allstate to get involved with their local nonprofits and partner with them in making their communities stronger and safer places.”

Allstate “parents” who are honored with an Agency Hands in the Community award serve nonprofit groups in many capacities – as volunteers, mentors, program partners and leaders. Organizations must qualify for tax-deductible contributions under Section 501(c)3 of the Internal Revenue Code.

Established in 1952, the Allstate Foundation is an independent, charitable organization made possible by subsidiaries of the Allstate Corp.

The Allstate Foundation partners with non-profit organizations on community initiatives that promote safe and vital communities, tolerance, inclusion, and diversity and economic empowerment. Teen driving and empowering victims of domestic violence have been priorities for the foundation since 2005.