Manasota BUDS is an all-volunteer organization.

Our Mission is to provide families with a neutral and supportive forum for sharing and networking, and to promote understanding and acceptance of Down syndrome.

Manasota BUDS was formed in May 2002 by a small group of families who wanted to network, compare notes, share stories, and support one another.  We held our first Buddy Walk in October 2002 and celebrated our 10th anniversary Buddy Walk on October 22, 2011.

For ten years we have maintained our affiliation with the National Down Syndrome Society, the National Down Syndrome Congress, and have hosted an annual Buddy Walk.  Manasota BUDS became an affiliate of the Down Syndrome Affiliates in Action group in 2011.

We actively seek strategic partnerships in the community.  Some past and current partners include Hope Haven, SMART, InStride, Dream Oaks Camp, Family Network on Disabilities of Manatee Sarasota, Florida Inclusion Network, and Special Olympics of Florida.

Our new parent kits are fully supported by area hospitals, USF Department of Genetics, and many local physicians.

We appreciate your interest in Manasota BUDS.

Current Board Members:

Kylee Barry *
Family Resource Specialist, Gulf Central Early Steps
4630 17th Street
Sarasota, FL 34235
Kylee and husband Richard are the proud parents of Sophie, who keeps her parents on their toes with her busy schedule. The family enjoys going to the park, Buddy Walk and other BUDS activities, as well as spending time with family and friends.

Mary Lou Bear *
Bio coming soon.

Heather D'Agostino RT(R), Board Member *
PACS Coordinator
Pinnacle Medical Imaging
315 75th St W
Bradenton, FL  34209

Michael G. Feduccia, CFP ®, Board President *
Vice President, Gateway Bank of Southwest Florida
Private | Wealth Services
Registered Principal / Branch Manager
Raymond James Financial Services, Inc.
1100 South Tamiami Trail
Sarasota, FL 34236

Paula Kester *
Accounting Manager
MGA Insurance Group
9024 Town Center Parkway
Lakewood Ranch, FL  34202

Aaron (AJ) Kramer, Treasurer *
Director of Business Development
Foodbuy, LLC a subsidiary of the Compass Group
11802 Summer Meadow Dr
Bradenton, FL 34202
AJ and his wife, Laura, have 3 children: Allison (12), Russell (9) and Mason (3) along with our dog Cosmo.  We love going to the beach and have fun making snow cones on a hot day.

April Moschini, Board Secretary *
Director of Resident Services Anchin Pavilion
1951 North Honore Avenue,
Sarasota FL 34235
Mother to two boys, one with Down syndrome.  Board member of BUDS for 5 yrs. In the past, has served as New Parent Committee Chair and served the following committees: Buddy Walk , lending library, and grant writing.  Former career in Education as a middle school teacher.

Kevin Underwood, Board Vice President *
President, Water Pro of the Gulf Coast, Inc.
126 Corporation Way, Suite D
Venice, FL 34285

* Indicates voting member.