The event, now deep into its second round, benefits St. Anthony's — the nonprofit that's been feeding, clothing, and providing services to San Franciscans in need since 1950. And unlike so many of the city's bloated social programs that burn through millions in overhead before a single dollar reaches anyone, the Penny Pitch is refreshingly simple: show up, toss coins, have fun, and send the proceeds directly to people who need help.

This year's competitors, the Bar Fly Flippers, are keeping the energy high and the pennies flying. It's the kind of grassroots fundraiser that reminds you charity doesn't require a six-figure nonprofit executive salary or a 200-page strategic plan. Sometimes it just takes a park, some pocket change, and neighbors who actually care about each other.

Forty-eight years is a remarkable run for any community event, especially in a city where traditions get steamrolled by development deals and shifting demographics on a near-annual basis. The fact that the Penny Pitch has endured says something real about North Beach — this is still a neighborhood that shows up for its own.

If you haven't swung by yet, there's still time. Washington Square Park, the sun's out (for now — this is San Francisco), and St. Anthony's could use your support. Even if your aim is terrible, your pennies still count.

In a city that spends $14 billion a year and still can't keep its streets clean, it's nice to see what happens when regular people just handle things themselves.