CRANBERRY TWP — More than 30 softball teams will take the field next weekend in an effort to make their neighbors’ lives a little better.

The 2018 Cranberry CUP (Community Uniting People) weekend is set for Aug. 3-5, with the goal of raising money for this year’s Inspirational Family. The weekend includes a kickoff party, softball tournament and golf outing to aid the family. The nonprofit each year selects a local family experiencing financial need due to a medical hardship to support financially.

Anthony Bertolino, president of the Cranberry CUP, told township supervisors at their Thursday meeting that the organization is closing in on the $2 million mark in funds raised since its inception in 2000. That event began with seven teams and raised $3,700. Now in its 19th year, Bertolino said 33 teams will participate, and the golf outing is nearly full.

“It’s always a tremendous weekend for us,” he said.

This year’s Inspirational Family is the Durans, who have found themselves in tough times after recently-born Maddox was diagnosed with spina bifida. He is the third child for Samantha and Andrew Duran, and the number of tests and procedures associated with Maddox’s diagnosis has put a financial strain on the family.

“They will inspire us to rally around for the weekend,” Bertolino said. “It’s a tremendous burden on their family, but we’re glad to step up and help.”

Bertolino said five different families are receiving financial support through the event. Cranberry CUP doesn’t pay for medical bills, but it does help in other ways, including providing special adaptive equipment, home health aides or home additions or alterations. All money stays local, he added.

“We are very fortunate to have Cranberry Township behind us,” he said, adding the township assists in finding fields to play on and other logistical matters. “We’re proud to be a part of Cranberry Township.”

The weekend kicks off at 9:30 a.m. Friday with the golf outing at Cranberry Highlands Golf Course. The annual kickoff party will take place later that evening from 6 to 10 p.m.

Saturday’s event includes an opening ceremony at 10 a.m., followed by the softball tournament throughout the day. A celebration picnic is scheduled for 2 p.m. Sunday at Cranberry Township Community Park.

For more information visit cranberrycup.org.