Police Officer Gives Back to Autism

TJ Burke kicks off new Frostbite 5K run/walk for Advisory Board on Autism and Related Disorders (ABOARD)

To see the press release for this event, click HERE.

Pittsburgh, PA. Join in the first Frostbite 5K event at North Park Boathouse, Saturday January 28th, 2012. Registration starts at 8:30 for the 10 a.m. start. Proceeds benefit the Advisory Board on Autism and Related Disorders (ABOARD).

TJ Burke approached the autism group with the fundraising project to “give back” to the autism community. Now holding two jobs –fulltime with State Security and Investigation services as armed private security agent, and as the 8th grade boys basketball coach at Community Day School– TJ previously worked as an autism therapist. He did this for six years in wraparound and then with adults diagnosed with Asperger syndrome as a trainer advocate. This left a lasting impression on him and a strong desire to continue helping people on the spectrum.

“TJ was very moved by his autism work and is driven to continue helping kids with autism. He is a dynamic force working to get this new event noticed by sponsors, runners and walkers. His commitment to families with autism is strong, and his energy is super high. It will be a great day!” said Lu Randall, Executive Director of ABOARD.

Those interested in sponsoring Frostbite 5K For Autism should contact TJ at tjburke.176@gmail.com or find the event on Facebook at Frostbite 5K. Register at the event website at www.valleylink1.com/frostbite5k.

ABOARD was founded as a non-profit advocacy organization in 1995. Through its Family Support Services, 62 support groups in 46 Pennsylvania counties are sponsored by ABOARD. ABOARD sends comprehensive information packets to families of newly diagnosed children and adults with autism, staffs a toll-free hotline, and maintains an up to date website. The most current information pertaining to autism is available through the free lending library of over 800 publications, a quarterly newsletter, and an informational weekly e-mail. More information, can be found at: www.ABOARD.org, or call 412-781-4116.

MEDIA CONTACTS: TJ Burke, tj.burke176@gmail.com. Phone 412-980-0085.