Autism Speaks is a cause close to home for Audrey Hochroth, who has experienced the first hand struggles of autism with her daughter Niki, who was diagnosed with autism at a young age.

Hochroth and her husband Sal Barone, owners of Augie’s Prime Cut in Mohegan Lake, are holding their first annual golf outing in September to benefit Autism Speaks.

"Having dealt with this difficult disorder, we thought this would be a good opportunity to raise money and awareness for both Niki and the entire community," Hochroth said. "Autism is not only the fastest growing serious developmental disability in the United States today, but a cause that hits very close to home."

Hochroth and Barone have been involved in Autism Speaks charitable walks and various other fundraising events for autism throughout the years. However, this year they wanted to make their own event. The golfing event will be held on Sept. 26 at the Garrison Golf Club. All proceeds will go to Autism Speaks.

In preparation for the event, the owners have been working on getting sponsors from the local community and have been conducting small fundraisers along the way. Regular customers have started to take their own initiative in fundraisers as well.

"We are trying to make this golf tournament a successful event and worthwhile contribution to Autism Speaks," Hochroth said.

Hochroth said her daughter, now 20 years old, is severely disabled and has very little language. At age six, after getting encephalitis, which is an acute inflamation of the brain, she started getting autism symptoms. 

"Having a child with special needs in general affects the whole family dynamic," Hochroth said. 

All contributions received by Autism Speaks from the tournament are considered a charitable contribution and is tax deductible. Autism Speaks is dedicated to funding global biomedical research into the causes, prevention, treatments, and cure for autism; raising public awareness about autism and its effects on individuals, families, and society; and bringing hope to all who deal with the hardships of this disorder.

Augie's Prime Cut is located at 3436 Lexington Ave. in Mohegan Lake. For more information call (914) 743-1357.