Association of Progressive Rental Organizations

APRO’s John Cleek Jr. organizes annual autism bowling fundraiser

Bowling for AutismColumbia, Missouri’s local news abc 17 KMIZ covered APRO’s own and MRDA President John Cleek, Jr. of Cleek’s Inc., dba Aaron’s Sales & Lease Ownership annual Bowling for Autism event. abc 17 KMIZ reported the following:  The 14th annual Bowling for Autism event was held Saturday at Town and Country Lanes in Columbia to raise money for a local nonprofit organization that provides services for families affected by the disorder. All proceeds from the event, which also included a silent auction, go toward Easterseals Midwest. John Cleek Jr., an event organizer who also has a son with autism, said the annual bowling event was expected to raise about $30,000 this year. Bowling for Autism has raised $330,000 since it began in 2003. “I’m just very proud of what we’ve been able to accomplish over 14 years and hope to keep it going for many more years to come,” he said. Easterseals Midwest also presented a $1,000 scholarship check for a participant who will be attending college in Missouri next semester. Studies show 1 in 68 children are diagnosed with autism in the United States. Cleek said as the number of cases continue to grow so do the need for services. “What they (Easterseals Midwest) do on a very limited budget is amazing,” he said. “This money just allows them to increase those services and buy additional equipment.” April is Autism Awareness Month. Click here to see the digital article along with a video of the event and interview with John Cleek, Jr.

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Mike Tissot

Countryside Rentals Inc., dba Rent-2-Own

Mike grew up in the rent-to-own industry under the guidance of his father, former APRO President and RTO legend Darrell Tissot. For nearly 25 years, Mike’s innovative leadership has helped expand the family business to more than 40 stores across Ohio and Kentucky while also shaping the industry as a whole.

He has served as President of the Ohio Rental Dealers Association, an APRO board member and Treasurer, and President and Treasurer of the TRIB Group. His contributions have earned him the APRO President’s Award of Excellence and the title of APRO Rental Dealer of the Year.

Outside of RTO, Mike enjoys time at the lake house or in Orange Beach, Alabama, with his girlfriend, Angela Strong McCool. A passionate Cincinnati Reds fan, he rarely misses a game, whether watching or listening alongside his parents. He also takes every opportunity to visit Arizona, where his daughter is currently attending Arizona State University.