Bike-A-thon Brings Together Community, Rasies Money and Awareness for Autism

Interacting with people can be overwhelming to some individuals who suffer from autism, as the developmental disorder makes it difficult for them to relate to others.

For many of these individuals, being in a crowd – of more than 700 no less – is no small task.  

Cory Duchak, of Mahwah, took on this challenge Sunday at the “Going the Distance for Autism” bike-a-thon in Allendale. Duchak’s participation in the race celebrated two milestones: his graduation from the Alpine Learning Group and his 21st birthday.

“This was a unique year for us,” Merri Duchak, Cory’s mother, said.

“We thought this would be a great idea to reach out to our friends and family for donations and support Cory.”

So far, the Duchaks have raised more than $15,000, and they hope to exceed more than $22,500, a small slice of the $574,000 that hundreds of riders have already raised this year.

The money, which was raised through donations and registration fees, will benefit four schools that specialize in special needs education; Alpine, which is Paramus-based, Educational Partnership for Instructing Children (EPIC) in Paramus, Reed Academy in Garfield and Garden Academy in Maplewood.

“There is a very limited number of programs that serve adults in northern New Jersey, so the money raised will go towards supporting educational programs at the four schools,” Wendy Worden, director of development at Alpine, said.

Part of Alpine’s portion will go towards supporting an adult learning center that is adjacent to Alpine for individuals with autism who are older than 21. Applying skills they acquired from Alpine’s day program, students are given employment opportunities and support from career coaches who work alongside them.

This adult program, which Cory will attend in the fall, is the Duchak’s main incentive to raise as much money as possible.

“Once these kids turn 21, they are no longer entitled to education services that are fully funded by the state,” Merri Duchak said. “Very few programs are available to adults with disabilities.”

“With all the progress Cory has made, it would be a shame for him to sit home,” she added. “He really enjoys going out into the community. This program helps students continue to live fulfilling lives by working and socializing.”

The adult program began in 2004. It has helped students like Cory earn a paycheck at places like Staples and Englewood Hospital, though it is costly for the school to run.

“Part of the challenge with autism is that it requires one on one education,” Worden said. “It requires significant staffing to serve this population.”

The educators hope that the money raised from the bike-a-thon will help cut these costs. This is the second year they have sponsored it.

“It is our mission to support Cory and his friends at the adult program,” Merri Duchak said. “The great thing about this event is that families can participate with their kids. It is so worth it to see everyone enjoying themselves.”