Lincoln Financial Group (NYSE:LNC) announced today that it is once again engaging its online community to help choose the next winner of its Lincoln’s Legacy Award. Similar to the last two years, the contest will recognize a nonprofit organization that advances President Abraham Lincoln’s legacy of freedom, opportunity and equality through education. Voting will take place from now until 11:59 p.m. ET on October 2, 2015. During that time, fans of Lincoln Financial and each nonprofit will cast votes for the finalist that will ultimately win the $50,000 award. The Lincoln’s Legacy Award is a key component of “Lincoln's Legacy,” the company’s three-year initiative that began in 2013 with the 150th anniversary of the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation and culminates in 2015, the year that marks the 150th anniversary of the adoption of the 13th Amendment to the Constitution.

“Every day, community organizations large and small work with our children to help them achieve their hopes and dreams,” said Nancy Rogers, senior vice president and president of the Lincoln Financial Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Lincoln Financial Group. “The Lincoln’s Legacy Award enables us to celebrate and support nonprofits whose principles and programs help prepare the next generation — through youth education — for the opportunities envisioned by our namesake, President Abraham Lincoln. We wish each finalist the best of luck as the voting begins.”

The five nonprofit organizations included in this year’s contest are as follows:

  • Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kansas City
  • Promises2Kids Foundation
  • Spark
  • Student U
  • YMCA of Greater New York

Fans and supporters can view a profile of each finalist and cast their votes by following this link. During each year of the Lincoln’s Legacy initiative, one organization that advances the president’s legacy of freedom, opportunity and equality, and whose programs expand opportunities for children and their family to live greater lives, will receive the $50,000 Lincoln’s Legacy Award. Brigade Boys & Girls Club and the Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago won previously, receiving the highest number of votes during each year’s campaign.

“We practice diversity and inclusion throughout every aspect of our business, including our relationships with national communities,” said Allison Green, senior vice president and chief diversity officer for Lincoln Financial Group. “Lincoln’s Legacy not only looks to the past for inspiration, but it is also committed to moving ahead by helping young people achieve successful futures. The Lincoln’s Legacy Award was created to achieve that goal, and we are pleased to be able to once again engage our social community in the process of choosing the most deserving nonprofit organization for this important recognition.”

Applications that met the eligibility requirements were reviewed by Lincoln Financial’s internal selection panel, which then selected the five finalists.

For more information, including rules for placing your vote, please visit the Legacy Award section of Lincoln Financial’s website at www.LincolnsLegacy.LFG.com.

About Lincoln Financial Group

Lincoln Financial Group provides advice and solutions that help empower Americans to take charge of their financial lives with confidence and optimism. Today, more than 17 million customers trust our retirement, insurance and wealth protection expertise to help address their lifestyle, savings and income goals, as well as to guard against long-term care expenses. Headquartered in Radnor, Pennsylvania, Lincoln Financial Group is the marketing name for Lincoln National Corporation (NYSE:LNC) and its affiliates. The company had $223 billion in assets under management as of June 30, 2015. Learn more at www.LincolnFinancial.com. Find us on Facebook, Twitter (@lincolnfingroup), LinkedIn and YouTube. To sign up for email alerts, please visit our newsroom at http://newsroom.lfg.com.

About Lincoln Financial Foundation

The Lincoln Financial Foundation, established in 1962, is a nonprofit organization formed and supported by Lincoln Financial Group. Under Lincoln Foundation guidelines, grants are made in the areas of arts, education, human services, and economic/workforce development.