MLS launches 3rd Annual Community MVP Contest

A representative from each MLS Club will be recognize by MLS W.O.R.K.S. for their charitable efforts and will have a chance to win $10,000.

NEW YORK - Major League Soccer announced the launch of the 2012 MLS W.O.R.K.S. Community MVP contest. During the 4-week contest, fans throughout the League will have an opportunity to nominate themselves or other individuals who are committed to going above and beyond to make a difference in their communities. Winners will be selected based on their efforts in one of the following areas: general community service; youth programming; environmental sustainability; health and wellness; education; military or civic service.

One (1) Community MVP will be chosen to represent each of the 19 MLS clubs and will receive a prize package including VIP tickets, local recognition and an autographed item. One (1) Grand Prize winner will receive a $10,000 donation to the charity of their choice and a trip to the 2012 AT&T MLS All-Star Game at PPL Park on July 25. Chelsea FC, winner of this year's UEFA Champions League, will return as the AT&T MLS All-Star Game opponent. The Grand Prize winner will receive roundtrip airfare, two nights' accommodation, a crystal award from Tiffany & Co. and official MLS merchandise as part of the prize package.

The MLS W.O.R.K.S. Community MVP contest will be open until June 21, 2012 at 7:59 p.m. ET. Nominations must be 500 words or less and can be submitted by visiting the Community MVP website. Following the announcement of the local winners, fans will have an opportunity to vote for one (1) Grand Prize winner by visiting the Community MVP website or the MLS W.O.R.K.S. tab on Facebook from July 2 - July 13. The Grand Prize winner will be announced during halftime of the 2012 AT&T MLS All-Star Game at PPL Park.

A component of Unite. Volunteer. Serve., the Community MVP contest seeks to identify MLS fans who are passionate about making a difference in the lives they touch and are dedicated to improving their communities. Unite. Volunteer. Serve., the League's community service program, is a collaborative effort to combine sport and service, promote goodwill within MLS markets and improve lives and communities at the grassroots level.