COLUMBIA (WACH) -- St. Patrick's Day festivities in Five Points is giving back in a big way to local charities.

Each year, local non-profit organizations provide volunteers who contribute man hours to make St. Pat's in Five Points possible.

Friday morning, 28 local charities were awarded contributions totaling over $60,000 from festival proceeds.

"Its a difficult time for a lot of non-profits, the economy is not so good for them right now, so every little bit helps, said Merritt Mchaffie, Five Points Association Executive Director. "Whether its $500 or $4,000, it's going to be able to help them either with admin needs or be able to do more programs that they can raise more money in the future or provide services to people that need it."

Five Points Association officials say without the help of volunteers the St. Pat's event would not be successful.

"They provide us an invaluable service and donating part of the festivals revenue is our way of saying thank-you," said Scott Linaberry, Five Points Association President. "Local non-profits are an integral part of Columbia and we enjoy being able to support them financially, particularly during these difficult economic times."

The success of St. Pat's in Five Points has allowed for nearly $1 million to benefit local charities over the celebrations 29-year history. In 2011, over 37,000 attendees enjoyed the March 19 event.

Did you volunteer at St. Pats in Five Points this year? If not, will you consider volunteering in the future?