Mission Statement

The Robert Noa Foundation exists to honor the life and legacy of motocross icon Robert Noa and to keep his passion for the sport alive in tangible ways. Our mission is simple: “Riders helping riders for the love of Motocross.”

We provide direct financial assistance to riders and their families for essential racing needs such as safety gear and travel. We also invest in mentorship and rider development, pairing new and returning athletes with experienced voices who can guide training, resilience, and sportsmanship.

Through events, sponsorships, and community partnerships, we rally support around riders, celebrate comebacks, and build a stronger, safer motocross community. Every donation fuels real help on and off the track—turning compassion into helmets and opportunities. Together we protect the spirit of motocross, create pathways back to the starting gate, and ensure Robert’s legacy inspires the next generation with courage and hope.

Founding Story

The Robert Noa Foundation was born out of love, loss, and an unshakable passion for motocross. When Robert Noa — a devoted rider, mentor, and friend — tragically passed away, his family and friends came together with one goal: to ensure his legacy would continue to uplift the sport and the people he cared for most.

What began as a tribute to Robert’s memory quickly grew into a movement — a community built on compassion, courage, and the belief that no rider should face hardship alone. Inspired by Robert’s dedication to helping others on and off the track, the foundation was established to provide financial and emotional support to riders and families navigating racing challenges.

Who We Help

The Robert Noa Foundation is dedicated to supporting the heart of the motocross community — the riders and families who give everything to the sport. We’re there to provide encouragement, resources, and connection to help riders stay engaged with the community they love.

WHO We help

Riders in Recovery — helping riders rebuild confidence and return to the track safely through mentorship, training, and community support.
Young and Returning Athletes — offering guidance, skill development, and opportunities to learn from experienced motocross veterans.
Families and Fans — creating spaces for connection, celebration, and shared purpose across the entire motocross community.

Every rider’s journey is unique, but no one rides alone. Through these programs, we honor Robert’s legacy by empowering others to grow stronger — on and off the track.

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MEET THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Fueled by Purpose, Driven to Give Back

Donna DesChamps Dilling

jim painter

jim waliga

Donna is a dedicated advocate for youth development and community engagement through the power of sport. As a board member of the Robert Noa Foundation, she plays an integral role in advancing programs that help young riders pursue their passion for motocross — providing access to mentorship, resources, and opportunities that foster confidence, discipline, and teamwork.

A lifelong believer in the positive impact of organized sports, Donna’s leadership style is defined by compassion, collaboration, and a deep commitment to empowering the next generation. Her involvement with the Foundation reflects her unwavering belief that investing in children’s dreams builds stronger, more connected communities.

Outside of her work with the Foundation, Donna remains actively engaged in supporting local events and youth initiatives that promote sportsmanship, safety, and personal growth. Her energy, empathy, and hands-on approach continue to inspire those around her and honor the legacy of Robert Noa — ensuring that his passion for motocross and dedication to young athletes live on through every program the Foundation supports.

Born and raised in Northeast Ohio, Jim’s passion for motocross began early—racing his first event in 1972 on a Honda CT 70. Over the decades, he has remained deeply involved in the sport, both as a competitor and a lifelong fan. In 1977, Jim placed fourth in the Ohio High School Motocross Championship and has continued to ride and support the motocross community for more than 54 years.

Jim graduated from Central Michigan University in 1982 with a Bachelor of Science degree and went on to build a successful career in the construction and equipment industry. He has served as a Sales Representative with ALL Crane Rental of Florida for the past 23 years, where his dedication and expertise have earned him the respect of colleagues and clients alike.

A lifelong motocross enthusiast, Jim has competed in numerous events across the country, including both motocross and hare scrambles, as well as an amateur Supercross event in the Houston Astrodome. He shared a close friendship with Robert Noa for 16 years, united by their shared love of the sport and the strong sense of community it fosters.

Today, Jim is proud to help carry forward Robert’s legacy as a founding member of the Robert Noa Foundation, continuing their shared mission to inspire and support youth motocross riders.

Born in Sharon, Pennsylvania in 1963, Jim developed a strong sense of discipline and perseverance from an early age. After graduating from Kennedy Catholic High School, he attended the University of Kentucky on a wrestling scholarship, where his commitment to excellence both academically and athletically set the foundation for his future success.

Following his time at the University of Kentucky, Jim established a distinguished career in the construction and crane industries. He currently serves with Utility Service Partner LLC, based in Brooksville, Florida, and resides in Dover, Florida.

Jim shared a close friendship with Robert Noa, bonded through their mutual passion for motocross and competition. The two spent countless hours racing dirt bikes together and developing a deep respect and camaraderie that left a lasting impression. In the wake of Robert’s passing, Jim joined with several of Robert’s closest friends to establish the Robert Noa Foundation. Through this organization, Jim remains dedicated to preserving Robert’s legacy and continuing his mission to support and inspire youth motocross riders.

SCOTT CONKLIN

Karen Funnelle

Born in upstate New York, Scott’s family relocated to Central Florida in 1972 to escape the harsh upstate New York winters. Coming from a baseball family, Scott took advantage of Florida’s great weather and played ball from little league through High School. During his baseball career he learned many life lessons by playing team sports. After graduating high school in 1989, Scott enlisted in the U.S. Navy and spent 4 years serving his country. He served two years overseas in Japan and during that time was forward deployed on the USS Midway during the Persian Gulf War. Scott finished his Navy career in San Diego and was honorably discharged in 1993.

After returning home to Orlando, Scott married and started a family and began pursuing his bachelor’s degree in business administration. He also started his career in the electric power industry with Florida Power Corporation (now Duke Energy). During his career Scott held numerous individual and leadership positions which allowed him to develop industry knowledge and grow his leadership and communication skills. It is also during this period that Scott met Robert Noa, who had a long and distinguished career with Duke Energy. Scott and Robert’s friendship continued until Robert’s passing in 2023. Currently Scott owns two businesses and is proud to be the President of the Robert Noa Foundation, which continues to foster and carry forward Robert Noa’s commitment and support for youth motorcross riders.

Karen is a passionate advocate for the motocross community and a proud MX mom and trail rider. As a board member of the Robert Noa Foundation, she brings both personal experience and heartfelt dedication to supporting young riders and their families.

With years spent at the track cheering on her son and connecting with other families, Karen has seen firsthand how motocross builds confidence, resilience, and lifelong friendships. Her deep appreciation for the sport’s ability to shape character and create community drives her continued involvement in the Foundation’s mission.

Through her leadership and enthusiasm, Karen helps ensure that every rider — from first-time racers to seasoned competitors — feels supported, inspired, and part of one big moto family. Her commitment to carrying forward Robert’s legacy reflects her belief that when youth are given encouragement and opportunity, they not only become stronger riders but also stronger individuals both on and off the track.