Robbie Farabee, 27, has high-functioning autism and has been living independently in the Colony Plaza apartment complex in downtown Excelsior Springs for three years. He gets help from people throughout the community, along with their warm embraces. He walks through town to reach his daily goal of 10,000 steps, meeting and greeting everyone on his path.

People describe him as a kind and gentle man. “His heart is in a good place,” remarked Daphne Bowman, owner of Willow Spring Mercantile. “He brings a smile to your face every time,” said the local bus driver who gives him a ride to one of his jobs as a teaching assistant at the Early Childhood Development Center.

Fearless, Robbie will try anything. He has starred in local plays at the Slightly Off Broadway Theatre. At the Colony Plaza, he puts on a show during karaoke night and encourages neighbors to join in, too. He created his own recipe, “Autumn Surprise,” a brownie with caramel syrup and melted candy corn on top, which he excitedly shares during potlucks with neighbors. “He does everything with so much enthusiasm that people respond in kindness,” said his mother, Christiana Farabee.

Despite his challenges growing up, Robbie has managed to find both a place and a life for himself in Excelsior Springs.

“His life is expressly due to the support of the community,” Christiana also said.