Despite losing two days to rain, this year's Fallfest wasn't a total washout for four charities that chipped in hundreds of volunteer hours - and received $3,000 each for their work.

Some of the money will go toward prescription drugs for Carroll County's working poor, scholarships, student counseling and anti-drug programs.

"It's a win-win situation, the best of both worlds," said Ron Schroers, Westminster's administrator of recreation and activities, the department that organizes the festival every year. "The city got 3 inches of rain and also gave $12,000 to charities."

This year's Fallfest had been scheduled to run for five days the last week of September, but heavy rains shut down the event for two days. The 24th annual edition of the festival drew about 35,000 people, down from the usual turnout of 45,000 to 60,000.

The festival takes place in the playground and fields behind Longwell Municipal Center in downtown Westminster. By tradition, charities compete for the opportunity to participate in Fallfest.

Of the 12 charities that applied for the spots in this year's festival, four were selected after showing how the money they raised would benefit people in Westminster. Those chosen were Residents Attacking Drugs, Carroll County Children's Fund, Mission of Mercy and the Kiwanis Club of Westminster.

In return for providing eight volunteers each hour of Fallfest to assigned areas, the groups receive an even share of the event's proceeds after expenses are paid.

Last year, a record $5,000 was given to each charity. This year's checks were presented at the Nov. 11 Westminster Common Council meeting.

Even though the donations were less than last year, the nonprofit groups are grateful.

"I was astounded, given the fact that two days were rained out," said Janet Hollinger, who organized volunteers from the Children's Fund to work at Fallfest.

Money isn't the only benefit to the charities. Exposure to the community masses helps, too.

"One of the strong advantages for our involvement is the opportunity to let others know of our existence," said David Liddle, chief executive officer of Mission of Mercy.

The Kiwanis Club operated a bingo station at the event. Member Cal Bloom said his group would use its Fallfest share for its community programs fund.

The Kiwanis Club and Residents Attacking Drugs have been picked to return to Fallfest next year. The other two Fallfest participants will be Carroll Hospice and Human Services Programs.