pbpacontact posted on February 11, 2024 17:58
Operation TT was established in memory of Teresa Lynn Smoot, or “TT” as she was known by her step-daughter, siblings and extended family.
Operation TT is a non-profit program administered by the PBPA of Illinois. All donations and proceeds go toward the provision of therapy dogs (dog acquisition, veterinary, and maintenance costs) to police officers and other 1st Responders.
Teresa passed away on Thursday, February 8, 2024, at the age of 47.
Teresa graduated from EPCHS Class of 1994, then earned a bachelor’s
degree in political science from University of Illinois Springfield. An accomplished labor relations professional, she influenced many people in more ways than she could have ever realized. She began her career as a 911Dispatcher, then worked representing Illinois’ Finest as a Labor Representative for the PBPA and Police Benevolent Labor Committee. She loved representing law enforcement officers across the state – fighting for them was a true passion. She remained a fierce supporter of all first responders during her entire adult life.
She loved to travel and played many sports especially softball. She was a very proud (and often frustrated) Chicago Bears fan.
Teresa knew first-hand the damage that trauma exposure could do. She knew the struggle with PTSD, addiction, anxiety, and other mental health challenges which “her cops experience everyday.”
For many years her constant companion was her beloved golden doodle Ramsey who had received training as a mental health therapy dog.
The first therapy dog will be provided to the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board (ILETSB) office in Springfield. ILETSB’s CIT and Mental Health team will deploy the dog to departments in and around central Illinois. ILETSB will also procure additional “TT dogs” for strategic placement within various regions across the state as funding becomes available.
Donations and contributions are welcome – and can be sent to:
Operation TT
c/o PBPA of Illinois
840 S. Spring St. Suite A
Springfield, IL 62704