BankGloucester has awarded a combined $15,000 to 15 local organizations, which will be distributed after the community casts votes for deserving groups.

First place receives $5,000, second place receives $3,000, third place receives $1,000 and 12 other groups will each receive $500.

These winners are chosen by the community and BankGloucester is asking for as many people to participate as possible. Beginning Monday, Aug. 22, anyone can come into the bank for a ballot or vote online at BankGloucester.com. The limit is one entry per person/email address. Voting closes on Sept. 30, and winners will be announced the week of Oct. 10.

The following organizations are included on this year’s ballot: Action Inc., Addison Gilbert Hospital, American Red Cross of Northeastern MA, Cape Ann Animal Aid, Cape Ann YMCA, Gloucester Education Foundation, Gloucester Fisherman’s Athletic Association, Gloucester Stage Co., Hospice of the North Shore & Greater Boston, North Shore Health Project, Open Door Food Pantry, Pathways for Children, Rose Baker Senior Center and The Gloucester Fund. There is also be a space where voters may write-in an organization of their own choice.

"Serving the Cape Ann community since 1887, BankGloucester, prides itself on giving back to the community and this program is one way we do that," said BankGloucester President and CEO Patrick Thorpe. "We are happy to support local nonprofit organizations and community causes."

Over the past three years, BankGloucester has given a total of $45,000 to nonprofit community organizations through its "Banking for the Community" program.