Proceeds from the 2019 Midwest League All-star Fan Fest tickets go to local charities for the first time

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SOUTH BEND, Ind.-- At the 2019 Midwest League All-star Fan Fest, the crowd is being treated to the ultimate baseball experience.

A chance to run the bases and score autographs from Chicago Cubs legends.

But Monday's events are having a deeper impact away from the baseball diamond.

"It's’a big event for our community but we also thought, what’s a way that we can utilize this game to give back to the community," said Joe Hart, President of the South Bend Cubs.

When fans buy their tickets for the 2019 Midwest League All-star Fan Fest, they’re asked this question: “Which charity would you like to donate to today?"

“We selected five local charity organizations and we’re giving two dollars of every ticket we sell to one of those organizations," said Hart.

Fans have the option of donating to one of five different organizations:

1. South Bend Education Foundation

2. United Way of St. Joseph County

3. Beacon Children's Hospital

4. Logan Center

5. Pet Refuge

ABC 57 spoke to two of those organizations to see how far beyond the diamond two dollars a ticket can go.

“Sure you’re going to buy a ticket and you’re going to have a great time but the other thing is you’re doing is you’re making it possible for pet refuge to extent their services to the community," said Pet Refuge President, Pam Comer.

For South Bend Pet Refuge, it takes about $40,000 dollars a month to run the animal shelter.

“You have ACL surgeries and hip surgeries and amputations, and I don’t have to tell the public those are expensive things," said Comer. The money that’s going to be generated, we’re going to be able to treat dogs for heart worm. Anything that comes through the door it’s going to give us an opportunity to treat them and save their lives and make a difference in the lives of the animals that maybe this is something they’ve never had before.”

Though it may not seem like it, two dollars can go long way to help non-profits, like the Logan Center.

“In our mind, it all adds up. Every gift to Logan is a great gift so we’re appreciative of any level of support," said President and CEO of Logan Center, Matt Harrington.

Every penny will be used to provide meaningful experiences to all their clients

“We really rely on the community for support. Those money’s raised help us deliver services for people with intellectual developmental disabilities so every two dollars that comes to us helps us provide programs like the one you see behind me today," said Harrington.

So while fans are enjoying all Four Winds Field has to offer, now they’ll have a second reason to smile.

“Well it may in the grand scheme of things be a small detail over the course of the entire year, it still our way to give back to let them know that we care," said Hart.

All five charities received those fan donations during a special check presentation after the home run derby.

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