South Bend Cubs, Surf Internet CEO Team Up for Autism Speaks

On Friday, May 29, a South Bend Cubs game night at Four Winds Field became something more. The Cubs joined Gene Crusie, CEO of Elkhart-based Surf Internet, in support of Autism Speaks, a national nonprofit dedicated to research, advocacy, and support for autistic individuals and their families.

Crusie’s connection to Autism Speaks is personal. Both his son and grandson were diagnosed with autism, and he has made it his mission to support the organization’s work in his community and nationwide. He is currently running the 2026 Bank of America Chicago Marathon as an Autism Speaks TeamUp fundraiser, a program in which participants commit to raising a minimum of $2,750 to earn their marathon entry. Crusie has raised nearly $13,000 so far, making him one of the program’s top fundraisers.

Looking to build on that momentum, Crusie brought a unique idea to the South Bend Cubs: raffle off a limited-edition Autism Speaks baseball glove, signed by members of the South Bend Cubs roster. Before throwing out the ceremonial first pitch as the Cubs faced off against the Fort Wayne TinCaps, Crusie was recognized for his fundraising efforts, and fans were invited to participate in the raffle. Throughout the evening, fans stopped by Surf’s concourse table to purchase raffle tickets, with all proceeds going directly toward Crusie’s TeamUp campaign.

“We’re excited to see the South Bend Cubs game bring the community together in support of Autism Speaks and the individuals and families we serve,” said Courtney Ryan, senior manager of nationwide peer-to-peer programs at Autism Speaks. “Our mission is to create an inclusive world where all people with autism can reach their full potential throughout their lifespan. Opportunities like today help raise awareness, foster connections, and inspire greater understanding and acceptance across the community. It’s meaningful to see local organizations and community members come together in support of the autism community.”

“It’s both a pleasure and an honor to partner with businesses throughout our region that share a strong commitment to giving back to our communities,” said Joe Hart, president of the South Bend Cubs. “The same commitment has long been a focus of the South Bend Cubs, so having the opportunity to align with other organizations that share those values is truly special.”

The evening offered families more than a traditional night at the ballpark, with live entertainment, a mascot hype crew, and a dedicated kids’ fun zone. On the field, the Cubs gave fans plenty to cheer about, opening the game with a two-run homer and a grand slam in the first inning.

Sara Okones won the team-signed baseball glove in the top of the eighth inning, with the raffle raising $535 for Autism Speaks, a powerful reminder of what community-driven fundraising can accomplish.

Autism Speaks provides a comprehensive library of resources, research updates, and tools for families through its regional and national platforms. Learn more at autismspeaks.org.

To support Crusie’s marathon fundraiser, visit his Autism Speaks TeamUp donation page.