Most people know that the Niles Scream Park is one of Michiana’s most popular haunted attractions.

However, what many people still do not know, according to the Scream Park’s Matt Herm, is that the establishment serves as a fundraiser for the dozens of area nonprofits, civic groups and children’s organizations.

“There are more than 65 nonprofits that we work with at the haunted house,” Herm said. “A lot of people know we are scary and we are one of the best in the country, but what they don’t realize is that all the money goes back to charity.”

To spread awareness of this, the Scream Park is collaborating with the Buchanan and Four Flags Area chambers of commerce for a special community showcase to highlight the many nonprofit organizations and volunteer opportunities in the area.

The showcase will take place at the Niles Scream Park on Mayflower Road from 6 to 9 p.m. Sept. 12. That night, various activities, including a sneak peak of the Niles Haunted House, will be offered.

Herm said it is a great opportunity for organizations to recruit new volunteers and to promote their charitable organization.

“We really want to get it out in the community that a dollar spent at the scream park is actually going back into the community supporting these Michiana charities,” he said.

Although it is free to have a space at the event, organizations must make a reservation to obtain a spot. In addition, each group that signs up will receive 25 free passes to the Niles Haunted House for a sneak peek at the park from 8 to 9 p.m. Sept. 12. The sneak peek will be open to the public and people can visit the various nonprofit groups’ booths on the park grounds.

Park officials are encouraging nonprofits to use the tickets as encouragement to get people to sign up for their group. Organizations must RSVP by Wednesday, Aug. 31 by calling or emailing the Niles Scream Park office at (269) 445-9184 or niles@haunted.org.

For those looking for a fall fundraiser, the Niles Scream Park is a non-profit that serves as a fundraiser for local charities. Last year, the 42nd consecutive year for running the project, the Scream Park raised more than $106,000 for more than 65 area children’s organizations, civic groups and other charities. More than 21,600 hours were volunteered by over 630 different people before and during the park’s 23 nights of operation, according to park officials.

Proceeds benefitted local school and service organizations, including the Make a Wish Foundation, local Boy Scouts, Pets Connect, Haunters for Hope (American Cancer Society Relay for Life team) and Positively Dance.

Park officials said a record donation to a single group was set last year when $14,400 was donated to the Make a Wish Foundation. The funds raised also will be used for four local college scholarships.

The Scream Park offers a variety of volunteer opportunities for groups to participate in, including face painting, acting, taking tickets, cashiering and more. Anyone interested in volunteering should contact the park office at (269) 445-9184.

The Scream Park is scheduled to open next month.