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They came in droves, with their matching shirts, walking shoes, strollers and determination. About 440 people gathered at Centennial Park on a Saturday morning in October to walk for autism.

And walk they did, children, teens, parents, grandparents, friends and teachers, together raising about $33,000 for the Howard County Autism Society at its first “One Step Closer” Autism Walk.

... attracts 440, raises $33,000

Ribbon Cutting: From left to right: Del. Guy Guzzone, Walk Organizer Bob Gillette, Councillor Jennifer Terrasa, Honorary Walk Chair Councillor Greg Fox, and Executive Director Kim Manning

Mr. Fox later said, "I am honored to be associated with this great organization and was thrilled to be the honorary chair for the First Annual One Step Closer Autism Walk. I look forward to continued collaboration between Howard County Autism Society and the County Council as we work together to improve the quality of life for individuals with autism and their families in Howard County.”

A number of families formed teams, many carrying signs and wearing T-shirts with photos of their children with autism spectrum disorders. Casey’s Crew, composed of the Lehner family and friends, alone raised more then $5,000.

In addition to Casey’s Crew, several teams of walkers raised large amounts. Matt’s Mavericks, made up of the Clutts family and friends, raised more than $3,300. St. Louis Catholic Church’s Special Religious Education team raised about $2,300.

Other top fundraising teams included Trey's Train, Kyle's Crew, Ryan's Troop, ECAG, and the Howard County Public School System MINC-EL Team.

Organizers couldn’t have asked for better autumn weather in Maryland. The day was clear, crisp and comfortably cool for the hour-long walk around Centennial Lake.