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Norfolk Police and Fire Departments to Cohost 2nd Annual Police and Fire 5K for Autism

NORFOLK — The Norfolk Police and Fire Departments are proud to announce that they will be hosting the 2nd Annual Police and Fire 5K for Autism at the Freeman Kennedy School on Saturday, April 5.

Jake Newell blew the whistle to kick off the inaugural Police and Fire 5K for Autism. The Norfolk Police and Fire Departments are excited to host the 2nd Annual Police and Fire 5K for Autism at the Freeman Kennedy School on Saturday, April 5. (Photo courtesy Kate Carlson Photography)

NORFOLK — Police Chief Timothy Heinz and Fire Chief Erron Kinney, along with the Norfolk Police and Fire Departments, are proud to announce that they will be hosting the 2nd Annual Police and Fire 5K for Autism at the Freeman Kennedy School on Saturday, April 5.

The event, which includes a 5K run/walk and a variety of family-friendly activities, aims to raise funds in support of autism awareness and inclusion programming.

The 5K race will begin and end at the Freeman Kennedy School, located at 70 Boardman St. Check-in begins there at 9 a.m. The race will kick off at 10 a.m.

In addition to the race, the event will feature:

  • A fun run for kids with obstacles and activities around the Freeman Kennedy School’s front field
  • Bounce houses
  • Fire and police apparatus displays
  • Police and fire community resource dogs
  • Raffles and prizes
  • Sensory-friendly activities
  • Food vendors, non-alcoholic beverages and an ice cream truck

The kid’s activities will be ongoing from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

Registration is currently open, and participants are encouraged to sign up early. Pre-registered runners will receive an event T-shirt, and children registered for the fun run will be provided a T-shirt to decorate on event day.

To guarantee a preferred T-shirt size, participants must register by March 22. Registration will remain open until the day of the event, but T-shirts will be available on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last.

Registration Costs:

  • 5K Run/Walk: $50
  • Kids Fun Run: $15

To register or learn more, visit: www.raceentry.com/races/2nd-annual-police-and-fire-5k-for-autism/2025/register.

Additional donations are also appreciated and can be made in-person on the day of the event.

The Norfolk Police and Fire Departments would also like to commend School Resource Officer Katie Appel, Firefighter Kate Howarth and Freeman-Kennedy School Teacher Assistant Kate Carlson for their dedication and hard work in organizing this event. For any questions about the event, please contact Officer Appel at kappel@norfolk.ma.us.

“This event is an opportunity for the community to come together and to support a great cause,” said Police Chief Timothy Heinz. “We are excited to build on the success of last year’s event and provide a fun, rewarding experience for everyone. Together, let’s show how much we care by drumming up support for individuals with autism and their families.”

“We encourage everyone to come out, whether you’re running, walking, or just enjoying all the family-friendly activities,” said Fire Chief Erron Kinney. “Run the 5K or join in on the walk. With your participation, together we can help support crucial autism awareness and inclusion efforts.”

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Scan the QR code for quick access to the registration page for Norfolk’s 2nd Annual Police and Fire 5K for Autism by March 22 to secure a spot and guarantee a preferred size for a complimentary T-shirt commemorating the event. (Photo courtesy Norfolk Police and Fire Departments)


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