Some 350 bicyclists from various states helped raise more than $27,000 during the third annual Ride For Autism charity fund-raiser.
To date, the event, organized by Andy Abere of Monroe, has raised net proceeds of nearly $70,000 to benefit people with autism.
The Ride For Autism, held at Brookdale Community College, Lincroft section of Middletown, June 14, featured rides of up to 100 miles and cyclists from New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Delaware and Maryland.
Abere, founder of the Ride For Autism, is the father of an 11-year-old son with autism. He and his wife, Lisa, who also helps organize the ride, have a 5-year-old daughter as well.
"Everyone had a great day riding to raise money," said Andy Abere. "As important, though, was that the cyclists also helped raise awareness about autism in the community and had a good time in the process. The rain stayed away, and everyone enjoyed a terrific day."
Monmouth County Freeholder Theodore Narozanick was on hand to cut the ribbon at the ceremonial start and to proclaim the day Ride for Autism Day.
All proceeds will benefit the New Jersey Center for Outreach and Services for the Autism Community (COSAC). Founded in 1965 and based in Ewing, it is a nonprofit agency providing education, services and advocacy for New Jersey’s autism community. COSAC helps people with autism to obtain appropriate, effective services to maximize their individual growth.