Upcoming Events & Announcements

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Manasota BUDS Events & Announcements

All in-person events, programs, workshops and nights out have been cancelled due to COVID-19 and the recommendation of social distancing. The NDSS (National Down Syndrome Society) has released information regarding the impact this virus may have on the Down syndrome community. For more information, please visit: http://www.ndss.org

We wish you and your family good health and look forward to seeing you when it is safe to resume normal events and activities!

Manasota BUDS is going VIRTUAL for our 2020 Buddy Walk!

On October 17, 2020 during Down Syndrome Awareness Month , we hope you will join us for the 19th Annual Manasota BUDS Virtual Buddy Walk .

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the health and safety of our participants is our #1 concern, so this year, you will be able to walk in the comfort and safety of your own community .

The best thing about a Virtual Buddy Walk is that everyone from all over the country, and even around the world, can walk, raise awareness and fundraise for Manasota BUDS!

In the upcoming days and weeks, we will send out more information and provide our virtual participants with specific #hashtags to promote and update your social media followers on how you're supporting the Manasota BUDS Virtual Buddy Walk in 2020.

Manasota BUDS needs your help this year more than ever before to help us raise awareness and funds that will keep our programs, scholarships and events going through 2021. We know 2020 has been a challenging year for everyone, and we appreciate your continued support!

ONLINE REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN!

The registration fee for the VIRTUAL Buddy Walk is $10 and does not include a t-shirt this year. As the Buddy Walk nears, we will provide you with information about how to order your optional 2020 Buddy Walk t-shirt at an additional cost directly from our local vendor.

Additionally, we have updated our sponsorship information and would really appreciate if you would provide the information to your employer, corporate relationships and local businesses to help us gain sponsors. Team captains or families who bring in a sponsor by September 15th will receive 4 free virtual Buddy Walk registrations!

Buddy Up Tennis

Buddy Up Tennis Sarasota is offering three different live, interactive and virtual programs for 10 weeks during the Fall 2020 session. Manasota BUDS is pleased to sponsor these programs for individuals with Down syndrome living in either Manatee or Sarasota counties. Pick and choose which program(s) your athlete will participate in.

In order for your athlete to participate, you MUST complete a SignUp Genius for each program:

FITNESS

ZUMBA

KICKBOXING

Stage Door Studios - Dance Classes

Manasota BUDS is pleased to sponsor two dance classes at Stage Door Studios, with the Fall session starting the week of August 31, 2020. Classes will be offered in-person and via Zoom to allow for families who are not ready to resume in-person classes due to COVID-19 concerns.

Ages 4 to 8 - Wednesdays 4:00 - 4:30pm

Ages 9 and older - Thursdays 4:15 - 4:55pm

In order to register your dancer, you must contact Stage Door Studios by calling 941-921-1600 or emailing them directly at [email protected]

Please note: Participation is voluntary, and Manasota BUDS cannot be held responsible for anyone who contracts COVID-19 or any other illness while participating in sponsored activities.