Photo courtesy of Marybeth Maino
Carrie Mason, Kendall Leek and Sarah Roszkowski raised money with a lemonade and cookie stand for Robbie Maino’s team.
Taking on the responsibility of organizing a team for the Walk Now for Autism Speaks is very personal for Robert “Robbie” Maino of Mechanicsville
Published: August 26, 2009
Melody Kinser
Taking on the responsibility of organizing a team for the Walk Now for Autism Speaks is very personal for Robert “Robbie” Maino of Mechanicsville. The 16-year-old was diagnosed at the age of 7 with Asperger’s Syndrome, which is listed on the Autism Spectrum.
This marks the inaugural year for the walk in Richmond, with teams raising funds for scholarships and bringing attention to autism. Robbie has the distinction of serving as ambassador of the three-mile walk, scheduled for Oct. 3 at Richmond International Raceway.
He also is spearheading a Casino Night from 6:30 to 11 p.m. Sept. 11 at the Manor House in Kings Charter. All proceeds will go to Autism Speaks, “which is the walk that Robbie’s doing” said his mom, Marybeth. Monies from the walk support “the Autism Grant, a scholarship for families that can’t afford treatment for their children who have been diagnosed with autism.”
Robbie, who’s preparing for his junior year at Atlee High School, learned about the walk from his mother.
“I really don’t care who has the biggest team or the most money, as long as the money gets there and it’s donated to autism,” Robbie said.
Robbie shared his story at the kickoff of the local walk, leaving few dry eyes in the room. Marybeth recalled “the impact that his speech gave to the autism community. Robbie pretty much summed it up at the end, ‘The key to success on why I’m where I’m at is hope and love and the support of family and friends in the community’.”
The walk is a true family affair, with 15-year-old brother Michael also participating.
“You can walk and get donations as a walker or you can go to the Web site and support Robbie’s team with a flat donation,” Marybeth said. Participants also have the option of forming their own teams.
Robbie learned about the walk earlier in the year and the Maino family agreed to take part. “I’d love to be the captain of a team,” Robbie said.
Last Wednesday, he and his mother talked about the family getting involved in the fundraising and the decision to host the Casino Night. The response for the Casino Night and accompanying silent auction, Marybeth said, has been overwhelming.
Talking about the “overall community support,” she said they have “some great silent auction items,” including an autographed New York Giants football; University of Virginia helmet signed by coach Al Groh; a Major League Baseball (MLB) autographed All-Star Game baseball; a fall getaway to Smith Mountain Lake; restaurant gift cards; and baskets. “We’re still accepting silent auction items or table sponsorships,” Marybeth added.
Those interested in Casino Night can call 347-3507 or buy tickets at Resource Realty at 911 Dickey Drive in Mechanicsville. The realty company’s phone number is 559-5990. Marybeth said Resource Realty has given “huge support for the Casino Night.”
As of Aug. 19, 32 people had signed on for Robbie’s team. He said they will be accepting participants “till the day” of the walk. The Mainos have a goal of “the most walkers, the most raised.”
Community support, Marybeth said, “has been incredible.” Three neighborhood girls — Carrie Mason, Kendall Leek and Sarah Roszkowski — raised more than $100 by selling lemonade and cookies. They are rising 7th-graders at Chickahominy Middle School. Their generosity, Marybeth said, “was so unsolicited.
“That afternoon they showed up with over $100 for the Autism Walk. It’s stuff like that that’s just really blown us away.”
Ed’s colleagues at Capital One also are helping through an employee resource group. “There’s been tremendous support through that,” Marybeth said.
While Robbie downplays his role in awareness, his mother points out “I think you gave them a lot of hope.” She said her son has been able to become his own advocate.
