Third annual Robert Tipaldi Scholarship fundraiser to be held

Stella Lombardo remembers her son, Robert Tipaldi, as a hardworking, loving and caring person. When he died during the September 11 attacks, she wanted him to be remembered. In 2001, a scholarship was created in his name.

On Friday, September 9, at Sirico’s (8023 13th Avenue) in Dyker Heights, Lombardo and her daughter, Lauren Sarantini, will hold the third annual fundraiser for the Robert Tipaldi scholarship.

“We want to keep Robert’s legacy strong, and give away a scholarship to someone who represents what Robert stood for,” said Lombardo.

With the help of Robert’s alma mater, Xaverian High School, along with other sponsors, Lombardo and Sarantini’s goal is to raise money for a scholarship in Robert’s name and give away a scholarship to a college-bound Xaverian student.

This year, Sarantini has taken the role of coordinator for the fundraiser.

“This is something I wanted to do,” said Sarantini. “I have two sons and I want them to know how great their uncle was.”

While there will be prizes, food, music and a photo booth,  the theme of this fundraiser will be all about love and remembrance.

“I want my children, nephews and community never to forget, and to show how important it is to give back,” said Sarantini. “Xaverian High School is such a big part of our lives and we want to give back to kids like [Robert] who want to go to school and can’t afford it.”

Tickets are $125 for adults and $60 for children, available at http://www.xaverian.org/tipaldi.

To find out more about the fundraiser, go to http://www.xaverian.org/page/Alumni/Events/Robert-F-Tipaldi-94-911-Memorial-Fundraiser.