Since 1997, Major League Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association have teamed with the Prostate Cancer Foundation for the Home Run Challenge to raise more than $31 million for prostate cancer research. In 2008, the Home Run Challenge raised more $2.6 million for prostate cancer research.

Every baseball season during Father's Day week, MLB teams raise money from fans and sponsors who make donations or pledge .25 cents to $10,000 for each home run hit during 60 selected games played, including selected games on Father's Day.

Check out the 2009 schedule.

On Father's Day, players, coaches, managers, trainers, groundskeepers, umpires and equipment managers wear blue to show their support, and all home teams feature a special MLB/Father’s Day blue ribbon logo on batting helmets, blue ribbon ceremonial home plates, ceremonial bases and pitching rubbers as well as lineup cards.

MLB team representatives speak about the value of prostate cancer research and encourage fans to make a pledge by appearing in public service announcements, donating autographed merchandise and participating in stadium events. In addition, each team conducts special Home Run Challenge events including pre-game ceremonies; first pitch opportunities featuring prostate cancer survivors, researchers or advocates; public service announcements on scoreboards; and the distribution of blue ribbon temporary tattoos.