Upcoming Events & Announcements
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Manasota BUDS Events & Announcements
We have some exciting things in the works here at Manasota BUDS! Please continue to check our website for updates as we continue to add additional programs, events and activities for individuals with Down syndrome and their families.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, Manasota BUDS has encouraged families to use their best judgement when it comes to exposing your loved ones to others who may spread the illness. We are very aware that the youngest of our vulnerable population still has not been approved to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, should families decide it is right for them. Please be aware that Manasota BUDS social events and activities are at your own risk, and Manasota BUDS is not responsible for any spread of illness.
The NDSC (National Down Syndrome Congress) has released information on the COVID-19 Vaccine for individuals with Down syndrome. We provide you with this information so you can make an informed decision regarding the vaccine and whether it is right for your loved one with Down syndrome.
Manasota BUDS 20th Anniversary Buddy Walk
Saturday, February 5th, 2022
Same great walk, exciting new location and possibilities!
Coki Campus - 11011 East SR72, Sarasota, FL 34241
After careful consideration, the Manasota BUDS Buddy Walk Committee and Board of Directors have made the difficult decision to postpone our 20th Anniversary Buddy Walk until February 5th, 2022. Our original date in October leaves too many of our youngest and most vulnerable population unprotected amidst a very concerning rise in COVID-19 cases. While we want to get back to our regular events, the health and safety of our BUDS community and supporters is our #1 priority.
So what does this mean for Buddy Walk? We have a lot more time to put together a great, NEW event for Buddy Walk participants! Please create your team, sign up your family and invite your friends, coworkers and extended family to participate. Everyone who registers will be given their own fundraising webpage that's easy to link to your social media accounts, to help bring in donations for Manasota BUDS.
We need your help to make this our best ever Buddy Walk!
Manasota BUDS 20th Anniversary Buddy Walk
Monthly BUDS Families Meeting
Thursday, October 7, 2021 at 6:30 p.m. via Zoom
Meeting ID: 842 2259 9866
Passcode: 346106
*Please note, you will need an authenticated Zoom account to be able to access this meeting.
This month's topics include: Small group activities brainstorming session, the new location/office and meeting space for Manasota BUDS, our 20th Anniversary Buddy Walk coming up on February 5, 2022 (rescheduled date!), including updates from the committee, and a lot more! This is a meeting you don't want to miss.
Buddy Walk Committee Meeting Volunteers Needed
Please join us at our next Buddy Walk planning meeting on Thursday, October 7th at 6:30 p.m. via Zoom. This meeting will be held in conjunction with the regular BUDS Monthly Meeting, following the conclusion of regular monthly meeting activities.
You can make a difference with Manasota BUDS!
RSVP Required for Parent Workshop
Virtual Parent Educational Workshop on (DS) Potty Training
September 18, 2021 - 1:00 p.m.: Potty Training Parent Session/Workshop with Stacy Taylor, MA, B.C.B.A. (http://advancebehavior.com)
For Manasota BUDS families, this is a no-cost Zoom session, lasting approximately 2 hours. Please RSVP to [email protected]!
RSVP Required for Parent Workshops (Several Dates)
Virtual Parent Educational Series on Puberty & Sexuality
Terri Couwenhoven MS, CSE is a well-known certified sex educator and author specializing in the design and implementation of sexuality programs and resources for people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities, their parents, and the professionals who support them.
September 25, 2021 - 9:00 a.m.: Preparing for Puberty: Supporting Healthy Sexuality for Tween FEMALES (60 minutes)
September 25, 2021 - 10:15 a.m.: Preparing for Puberty: Supporting Healthy Sexuality for Tween MALES (60 minutes)
October 30, 2021 - 10:00 a.m: Don't Cross the Line! Understanding Boundary Confusion in People with I/DD (60 minutes)
November 20, 2021 - 10:00: I Want to Date! Supporting Healthy Dating Relationships (60 minutes)
RSVP now to [email protected] - there is no cost to Manasota BUDS families.
Moms Night Out
When: Thursday, September 30th, 2021 at 6:30 p.m. 
Where: Carrabbas Italian Grill, 5425 University Parkway, University Park, FL
*Manasota BUDS will purchase food and soft drinks for those who RSVP to [email protected] or via social media. Alcoholic beverages must be purchased separately by the consumer.
DADS Night Out 
When: Wednesday, October 13, 2021 at 7:00pm
Where: Gecko's Grill & Pub, 351 N. Cattlemen Rd, Sarasota 34232
The Manasota BUDS chapter of DADS meets for a meal, cold drinks and good conversations, usually the second Wednesday of every month. RSVP now or sign up to receive DADS updates by emailing [email protected]
*Manasota BUDS will purchase food and soft drinks for those who RSVP via email or social media. Alcoholic beverages must be purchased separately by the consumer.
Stage Door Studios - Dance Classes
Manasota BUDS is pleased to sponsor a dance class at Stage Door Studios.
Ages 4 and older - Thursdays 4:15 - 4:55pm Season is happening NOW for 2021!
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.
Programs & Services
Please excuse our mess as we organize our new location, digital materials and resources.
We're so excited about the future of Manasota BUDS!
