From staff reports

A man with a love for games and a passion to support autism will hold his third annual Arcade Bash for Autism event this weekend.

Steven Prendergast started the event two years ago at the Electric Rainbow Arcade inside the Western Mall. Prendergast, who lives with autism, has used the event to raise almost$5,000 to support the Lighting the Way Autism Walk.

“The response from the community has been amazing. The first year, we didn’t know what to expect and were pleasantly surprised by a great turnout. By the second year, when we got the word out a little more, there were 50 people lined up outside the door when the event started,” said Chris Prendergast, vice president of operations at Click Rain and brother to Steven. “We’ve just been very blessed by the number of people that have supported Steven and the cause.”

Steven Prendergast was recognized for his efforts earlier this year by the South Dakota Hall of Fame.

This year’s event is from noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, April 2.

The first 100 people in attendance will receive $5 in free tokens, thanks to sponsor Click Rain. Other giveaways will include an iPad mini, sandwiches from Potbelly Sandwich Shop and movie passes from West Mall 7 Theatres.