An island father to a daughter with autistic tendencies is hoping to help others in the same situation by bringing therapy robots to Vashon.

Hans Youngmann recently created his fledgling nonprofit: Robostarter, with the intent to raise money for, and purchase therapy robots for use by island families with autistic children. His GoFundMe page has raised $240 of its $10,000 goal and he is holding a fundraiser at 6 p.m. Saturday, May 14, at the Open Space. The event will be emceed by the Filson Sisters and will feature performances from Ian Moore and Ike Harmon.

In a Monday interview, Youngmann said that he came up with the idea to bring therapy robots to the island after seeing his autistic daughter, a Pre-K student at Chautauqua Elementary School, interact with a singing and dancing Elmo.

“Her attention directed right to it. I had never seen that before,” he said. “To see her solely focused on one thing, that’s when everything clicked and I knew I had to get her access to these robots.”

The robot he is talking about is called Romibo, a fuzzy, socially assistive, kid-friendly robot for autism educators and therapists. Made by Oakland, California-based Origami Robotics, the robot comes pre-programmed with lessons that deliver prompts and conversation. The lessons range from learning about emotions to social narratives and fill-in-the-blank songs. All of Romibo’s actions can be controlled with an iPad.

Youngmann’s goal is to purchase these robots and lend them out to families interested in using them. Depending on interest, he would then work with the school district to make them available in classes.

“The best way to get access will be through the schools. (The) nonprofit will be an introduction service where people can request therapy devices,” Youngmann said.

According to Origami Robotics’ website, Romibos cost $449 each.

Tickets for the May 14 fundraiser are $10 and can be purchased at Vashon Bookshop or at brownpapertickets.com.