The Manitoba Building Sustainable Communities Program is a grant that helps organizations continue their development projects that serve communities.

Carman Minor Ball applied for this grant to help with the first stage of their Ball Diamond Building Project and was awarded a maximum of $75,000.

"We were lucky enough to be awarded the entire amount. So with that, we have most of our work completed for phase one already which includes land-levelling, drain tile, irrigation," says Carman Minor Ball President, Erin Lemky.

She says they're hoping to get grass in the ground so when spring comes around they don't have to work at it, rather, they can watch it grow and attend to it when needed.

"Since January the total amount that we've raised is just under $700,000. The community has been absolutely amazing. Individuals, corporations, small businesses, they all see the need for this project to go forward in our community."

Lemky notes that the diamonds will benefit more than the town, but the surrounding Pembina Valley and beyond.

"With the Tiger Hill Softball League it goes down to Clearwater, Glenboro, Portage, just travelling. We're also hoping that regional teams like Central Energy can find benefit."

There isn't much they can do outside once winter comes, but they are holding a comedy event in partnership with Carman Minor Hockey. They've sold 38 of 42 tables so far.

After that, she says they'll "keep plunking away" to raise the rest of the needed funds, and thank all of the contributors so far.

More information on the project and how to donate can be found on CarmanMinorBall.ca.