Introduction to Autism
Getting any new diagnosis comes with the need to understand it. Learn the basics about autism, and get some take-home tips, from people who understand and have worked in this field for 20+ years.
We will explain the details about autism and how brain differences help shape personality, likes, dislikes, fears, eating, sleeping, the senses, and communication. Please come and ask your questions, meet others with similar concerns and learn what to do at home and in the community!
This is a free workshop, but registration is required.
We Got Your Back, Jack! 2023 Pittsburgh Marathon Runner Runs for a Reason
I was diagnosed with ADHD at 43. I always knew that I was different from my peers. Looking back, that difference created barriers and annoyed people at times. My non-stop chatter and impulsivity would lead to fights, self medication, and forced isolation during adolescence and early adulthood. I reflect now and I realize that physical activity helped regulate me; you may say it saved me. The structure and expectation of sports was key in my day-to-day success and when it was missing, the consequences were unpredictable.
Having a daughter with the same observable traits led me to encouraging physical activity and we experienced the positive outcomes of those daily challenges. That is how we live our lives together. As a family we participate in 5ks, competitive dance, competitive powerlifting, soccer, and terrain races. And now at age 50, I myself am training for my first Marathon!
This journey has already led to some meaningful moments in my life. I am thrilled that I can fundraise for a vital cause, and neurodiversity is now an open part of my personal life as much as it has been part of my professional life.

Jack Butler exudes passion for his work.
I have chosen to raise funds for the Autism Connection of PA, part of Achieva family of organizations where I have worked for 28 years. Autism Connection relies on fundraising to fulfill its mission to promote awareness and advocacy for and with autistic people. People who like me, may identify with being on the fringe of societal norms. Autism Connection is not focused on fixing people, but welcoming people to the table, supporting their goals, and valuing all perspectives.

Inclusion Matters!
By sponsoring me to run the Pittsburgh Marathon, you will help Autism Connection continue their good work and help all people lead lives of personal significance. What started as a therapeutic way for me to self-regulate has now turned into a way I can help meet some of the support needs of others. Please join me in this effort – I could use your encouragement every step of the way!
We got your back, Jack! Visit Jack Butler’s 2023 DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon page.
Pittsburgh Marathon 2023 Run for a Reason
Autism Connection of Pennsylvania is excited join the celebration of sthe 15th year of the DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon in 2023! The Pittsburgh Marathon was held annually from 1985-2003, and following a five-year hiatus, the DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon was relaunched in 2009 and debuted with a sold-out field. Show your support for Autism Connection at the 15th running of this awesome event this May!
Autism Connection’s Race Roster
Highmark Walk for a Healthy Community
Autism Connection of Pennsylvania will be a participating organization for the 2023 Highmark Walk. If you would like to sign up and support Autism Connection, check out the event information listed below. We hope to see you there!
When:
Saturday, May 13, 2023
Where:
Acrisure Stadium – 100 Art Rooney Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15212
Plaza at Gate A
Important Times:
7:45am – Check-in and registration
9:00am – 5K Walk
9:15am – 1 Mile Walk
Other Information:
- Raise or donate $30 and you will receive a T-shirt while supplies last
- You will receive one raffle ticket for every $50 that you raise or donate
- Refreshments and entertainment
- All routes are accesible for wheelchairs, electric scooters, strollers, etc.
Register Here!
Questions? Contact:
Tammi Morton
Phone: 412-995-5000 ext. 605
tmorton@achieva.info
Adult Protective Services. Who? What? When? Where?
Presenters will discuss:
- History
- Identifying and reporting abuse and structure
- Contacts at Adult Protective Services
Join with Google Meet
meet.google.com/sdd.-nrij-pyj
Or dial: (US) +1 929 269 1859 PIN: 732 386 456#
Questions? Email Melissa Skiffen at mskiffen@achieva.info.
Miniature Railroad & Village® Sensory Friendly Tours
Join expert Miniature Railroad educators on a special behind-the-scenes tour through one of the Carnegie Science Center’s most popular exhibits! All tours will occur outside of regular museum hours. Designed for visitors with sensory sensitivities and/or other disabilities, these tours are personalized and free of crowds and loud noises. Each tour date has a very limited number of spots available, to maintain a welcoming, low-stimuli environment.
Tickets for this opportunity are free, regardless of Membership status, but require advance reservations for all members of your party. This is an all-ages appropriate event. General admission to the museum is not included, but can be purchased separately for the Tours that occur before museum open. To register, please use the buttons below, call 412-237-3400 or email CustomerService@CarnegieScieneCenter.org
