As the Auburn Little League All-Stars began World Series play Friday, the community pulled together to financially help the team’s traveling families.

The Rotary Club of Auburn and Scarff Ford were on hand at a viewing party at the Auburn Avenue Theater prior to Friday’s first pitch, each delivering a $500 check to help Auburn families defray the cost of sending their All-Stars to Pennsylvania.

In addition, the Rotary and Way Scarff challenged local businesses and service organizations to raise money for Auburn Little League.

Auburn, which took the district title, has been on the road extensively. The all-stars won the regional tournament in San Bernardino, Calif., before making the cross-country trip to Williamsport, Pa., for the World Series. It costs about $800 for each player to go to the regional tournament and another $800 each for the trip to Pennsylvania, according to Little League officials.

There are several ways that people can help the team members and their families:

• Make a donation at any Bank of America (mention Auburn Little League) or Sound Credit Union, located at 2326 Auburn Way N.

• Make a donation at BB McGraws Family Restaurant & Sports Bar; located at 440 – 16th St., Auburn (restaurant is showing the game on its 24-inch big screen TV and 45 other TVs as well as other games throughout the tournament).

• Make a donation at the Iron Horse Casino, located at 333 – 15th St. NE, Auburn (casino will be showing all games)

• Host your own viewing party and take donations for the families and drop off at any Bank of America or Sound Credit Union location.

At the viewing party Friday, proceeds from concessions, sales of limited edition commemorative T-shirts, baseballs and caps, and other donations went to the team.

Auburn Little League is a nonprofit organization, and all donations are tax deductible.