The net proceeds from the 2023 Step Up for Colleen 5K Walk/Run will benefit charitable activities honoring Colleen’s legacy including the Colleen E. Ritzer Memorial Scholarship. The Scholarship fund was established by Colleen’s family to benefit graduating high school seniors, who are Andover and Danvers residents, who demonstrate a passion for teaching, academic excellence and love of family and who will pursue a degree in education. The scholarship fund is a permanent tribute to Colleen and builds upon her legacy by helping future teachers obtain a college degree so that they too can share their passion for teaching. Since its inception in October 2013, the scholarship fund has awarded over  $440,000 in college scholarships to nearly 90 future teachers & leaders.