Submitted Photo Dory Matwijkow poses with a ceremonial check following the conclusion of her Step Up for Autism walk.

After The Resource Center and Filling the Gap, Inc., canceled their 11th annual Step Up for Autism walk in Celoron because of the pandemic, Dory Matwijkow — who each September typically travels from her home on Grand Island to participate in the event – decided to organize her own walk. Dozens of people took part in Matwijkow’s event, held Sunday at Beaver Island State Park on Grand Island. Through registration fees, a bake sale and a basket auction, Matwijkow’s Step Up for Autism event raised $8,788.

She said her family and friends will contribute additional money to bring the total to $10,000. The proceeds will support The Resource Center’s SUCCESS Program, which teaches socialization skills to youths with autism. Matwijkow’s son Austin is on the autism spectrum and lives in a home operated by The Resource Center. Matwijkow, her family members and friends call themselves Austin’s Angels, and through efforts such as Step Up for Autism and bake sales, they raise money to support local causes.

To make a donation in support of Matwijkow’s event, visit www.stepupforautism.com.