Local organizations host First Autism Awareness Poker Run this weekend

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - Motorcycle and bike enthusiasts participated in the First Autism Awareness Poker Run over the weekend.

The event, hosted by Yuma BikeLife and Citadels M.C. Prison Hill Chapter, started at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, with registration taking place behind the Children's Museum of Yuma County at 10:00 a.m.

The organizations say this was the first time they teamed up "to not only raise awareness, but also generate funds in support of the autism community" in Yuma.

For Matthew Culley, who also goes by "Heathen" and is the President of the Prison Hill Chapter, the event was very personal for him.

"It all came to fruition because my son is autistic, so I wanted to really have a community involvement with that particular aspect of autism," Culley shared.

In addition, the organizations held a similar event at West Wetlands Park at 11:30 a.m., with the ride starting at 12:45 p.m.

Following the run, the organizers and participants met up at Hooters for the Hooters Takeover at 2:00 p.m.

All proceeds raised will benefit "local efforts to support individuals and families impacted by autism," the organizations says.