A proud moment for the Banks Family of Fanwood as they presented a check for $17,500 to Autism New Jersey, money raised during the annual Rockin’ For Autism fair at LaGrande Park in April and several other fundraisers.

The fundraisers began nine years ago when Mallory Banks decided to sell baked goods in the name of her brother Ethan who has autism.

Those bake sales, which raised a few hundred dollars, have grown to an event that takes almost a year to organize with the help of her mom, Gina Banks and dad Jeff Banks. Mayor Colleen Mahr represented the Borough of Fanwood, which renders assistance for the LaGrande Park event.

Accepting on behalf of Autism New Jersey was Ellen Schisler, Associate Executive Director. Also presenting a check for $250 to Autism New Jersey on behalf of the Fanwood PBA were Lt. Frank Marrerro and Officer Dan Kranz.