FORTY CARROTS FAMILY CENTER - Key Persons
Alan Ross opened Suncoast Orthotics & Prosthetics, Inc. in 1981 to serve the needs of the amputee population in the Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte County areas. He served as Chairman of the National Exam Development Committee for the National Certification Board in Orthotics & Prosthetics and was Chairman of the Florida Licensure Committee seeking to develop a Licensure Bill to regulate the provision of orthotic and prosthetic care in the State of Florida. In 2013 he sold his business to the Hanger Clinic, a national leader in orthotic and prosthetic care and continues to serve as Clinic Manager. He is married with two grown children.
Benjamin (Ben) Jones, CFP®, AIF® is a managing director at Mariner Wealth Advisors.
Ben has been managing assets for private individuals, families and charitable organizations since 2005. Prior to joining Mariner Wealth Advisors, he served as president, principal and chief investment officer at Allegiant Private Advisors. He continues to lead the Sarasota office while also supporting Mariner Wealth Advisors' growth in the region. Ben and his team provide holistic and comprehensive wealth management solutions to help clients reach their financial goals.
Over the years, Ben has been active in the community through local nonprofit organizations and professional associations including the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance, Young Leaders Alliance, the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce and the Forty Carrots Family Center. Ben is an alumnus of Leadership Sarasota.
Ben was named to Forbes' Best-In-State Wealth Advisors list, ranking #40 in Florida in 2019. He was also ranked #191 on the Forbes' 2020 Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisors list. He holds a dual degree in Economics and East Asian Studies from Bates College. He is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional and holds the Accredited Investment Fiduciary® designation.
Ben proudly serves on the board of directors and is the treasurer for Forty Carrots Family Center. He and his wife, Erin, are the proud parents of two children, Andrew and Lauren, both of whom are graduates of the Forty Carrots Preschool. In his free time, he enjoys playing tennis and is an avid Red Sox fan.
Job Titles:
- Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Bonnie is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. She earned her Master of Arts degree in Community Mental Health from Webster University, and her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology with a Counseling Emphasis from Lander University. She has over 10 years of experience in the field of mental health counseling including individual, group and couples counseling. She has gained diverse career experiences while providing counseling within schools systems, therapeutic foster homes, as well as office settings. She has worked with children and families offering counseling, behavior management, and crisis intervention. In addition to counseling she has provided psychoeducational programs that have included: mindfulness, parenting, life skills, and brain health.
Job Titles:
- Managing Director With Sarasota Private Trust Company
Brian Volner is a Managing Director with Sarasota Private Trust Company. His responsibilities include client relationship management and new business development. Mr. Volner has over 20 years of financial services experience, having held leadership roles in managing teams responsible for commercial lending, asset and liability management, private banking and treasury management. He has developed new markets via loan production offices and "de novo" branches. Most recently he led business development efforts in Southwest Florida, helping to grow a $220 million privately owned company into a $1.7 billion public company traded on the NYSE in less than five years.
Mr. Volner is past Chairman of the Board of the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance. He has served on the Board of Manatee Sarasota SOLVE and the Bradenton Area Economic Development Corporation, where he is currently on the Board's Executive Committee as Treasurer. Mr. Volner holds a BS degree in Financial Economics from Carson Newman University. He is a graduate of Leadership Manatee and the Florida School of Banking, through the University of Florida's Warrington College of Business.
As the Chief Program Officer, Carla Johanns is responsible for leadership and oversight of the three programs of Forty Carrots Family Center.
Carla has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from New York University and a Master's of Arts in Counseling from Montclair State University. She has a Post-Master's specialization in substance abuse counseling. Carla has worked in the counseling field since 1999, primarily with children and adolescents. She is licensed in Florida as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Qualified Supervisor.
She relocated to Sarasota with her family in 2015 and has been with Forty Carrots since 2016 when she started in the Parenting Program as a Parenting Educator. In 2017, she was promoted to Clinical Director of Mental Health services and stayed in that role until 2021.
Job Titles:
- Development Administrator
Caroline holds a Master of Public Affairs in Nonprofit Management from Indiana University, and a dual BA in English and Communication Studies from Saint Mary's College. Her passion for education began as middle school science teacher and led her to Forty Carrots in 2018. She works closely with the administrative team on a variety of projects with a particular focus on grant administration and management. As a Midwest native, Caroline loves living and working in the Sarasota area and can often be found outside exploring Florida's nature with her husband.
Job Titles:
- Chairman
- Red Cross Disaster Team Member
Chris Jarmul is the IBM Global Account Manager for International Data Corporation (IDC), a leading IT industry analyst firm. Born in Ridgefield, Connecticut, she spent a large portion of her school years in Sarasota including being in the ‘Beta; Class; when Pine View School opened. Her family moved, however, so she finished high school in North Carolina and attended the University of North Carolina as an Honors Student and NC Fellow. She graduated from Gannon University with a BA in Communications. During a 12 year stint in Dallas, she worked in magazine publishing, eventually becoming the group publisher of several trade magazines in the sportswear business.
Moving to Southern California for personal reasons, Chris entered the technology publishing market, then moved to IDC and has worked there most of the nearly 22 years since, except for three year sabbatical for travel and living in Southern France. She and her husband, Dai Morgan, moved from France to Sarasota in 2009.
Chris has been a Red Cross Disaster team member, was a Team Captain for several years for the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life of Downtown Sarasota and is volunteer for the Gulf Coast Youth Rugby Foundation. She has three grown children; her daughters live in Berlin, Germany and Raleigh, NC and her son, Rhys Morgan, lives in Sarasota. She has a granddaughter, Charlotte Boykin, who attended Forty Carrots Preschool last year as a 4 year old. She loves being back in Sarasota, belongs to two book clubs, and enjoys cooking every weekend for friends and family.
Dawn Doughty is originally from the Washington DC area, grew up in Maryland and lived in Northern Virginia until moving to Sarasota in 2008. Dawn retired from Chevy Chase Bank in 1996 to stay at home with her two daughters. While working for Chevy Chase Bank she served as the executive assistant to the General Auditor, managed a four division Audit Department and later moved to the Home Equity Division as a loan officer/underwriter and a subordination specialist.
After her retirement in 1996, Dawn was an active volunteer while living in Northern Virginia, serving as President of the Great Falls Women's Club and President of the Great Falls Women's Club Scholarship Board. For these organizations, she planned several fundraising events to benefit scholarship programs for high school graduates in Northern Virginia. She also helped launch a successful building campaign for a new firehouse for the Great Falls Volunteer Fire Department.
Dawn and her husband, Dennis moved to Casey Key in 2008. Since then she has served on the Casey Key Association board as Membership Co-Chair, Secretary and is a current Vice President overseeing various projects for the association. Dawn received her introduction to Forty Carrots Family Center four years ago when she took on the role of Wine Co-chair for their annual Wine, Women & Shoes fundraiser. Her duties as Wine Co-chair have allowed her to establish great working relationships with wineries, distributors and retail partners and manage the 1500 bottles of wine donated to be poured over the 3-day event each year.
Dawn is passionate about volunteering, children, and families, enjoys fine wine, golf and traveling the world with her husband.
Job Titles:
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker & Certified Case Manager
Diana is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Case Manager. Diana earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Bucknell University and Master of Arts degree in Clinical Social Work from New York University. She has been working with children and families for over 15 years in both a counseling and case management role. Her experience includes providing individual and group therapy to children and adolescents with emotional and behavioral issues as well as family therapy. Additionally, Diana is also well versed in providing counseling and case management services to children with disabilities and their families and has completed her Infant Family Mental Health Graduate Certificate from USF.
Diane O'Driscoll joined Forty Carrots in June 2010, bringing over 25 years' experience in accounting and financial management. Following careers in accounting in both the UK and South Africa, Diane relocated to Sarasota with her family in 2002, and has since filled leadership roles in both finance and development for nonprofits including the Englewood Art Center, St Vincent de Paul Community Pharmacy, and Suncoast Humane Society. In her quest to help build strong communities, Diane has also served as a volunteer with many local organizations including Guardian Ad Litem, Vision North Port and Literacy Volunteers.
Job Titles:
- Registered Clinical Social Work Intern
Elena joined our team with a BA in Human Development and a Masters in Social Work. She has a diverse background working with the Safe Children Coalition and various Early Childhood Centers. Most recently, Elena completed an internship at the University of South Florida in the Infant-Family Mental Health Center. Since having joined the Forty Carrots team, Elena has become A Window Between Worlds facilitator and has earned her Circle of Security® certification. Aside from offering individual and family therapy at Forty Carrots, Elena also provides school-based services in several schools, including teen parenting locations in the community.
Eric Kaplan is a resident of Sarasota and an attorney admitted to practice in Florida, New York and New Jersey. He holds his CPA license in New York, and his professional practice emphasis is real estate, banking, taxation, philanthropy and entertainment. He is a Trustee of the Louis & Gloria Philanthropic Trust, and is the vice chair of the Jewish Family & Children's Services of the Suncoast. Eric is also Board member and chair of the audit committee of Sarasota Private Trust Company, a Board Member of the Boys & Girls Club of Sarasota, and the Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation. He has been married for 40 years to his wife Marcia, and has three adult children and four grandchildren.
Job Titles:
- Clinical Director, Child & Family Therapy Services
As the Clinical Director of the Child & Family Therapy services at Forty Carrots, Erika Kohne, is overseeing a group of therapists and supporting the expansion of mental health services throughout the community.
Geri Jo joined Forty Carrots staff in 2007 after many years as a Forty Carrots parent. She credits Forty Carrots parenting classes with giving her the skills, support and education she needed when raising her own children and is passionate about ensuring everyone has those same opportunities. Geri Jo combines a background in social work with a unique perspective gained from serving on numerous boards as a volunteer for many organizations in Sarasota and Manatee Counties. In her work with donors and volunteers, Geri Jo strives to honor each one for their commitment to Forty Carrots' mission and respect for their individual philanthropic goals.
Job Titles:
- Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Heather is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. She earned her Master of Arts degree in Community Counseling and her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology with a minor in Family Studies from Campbell University in North Carolina. She has over ten years of experience in private practice providing individual and family therapy to all ages, focused on children and adolescents with various emotional and behavioral issues. While living in North Carolina, she worked in a private practice and provided individual and family therapy to all ages. In November, 2010, she began working as a Parenting Educator and in 2014 as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor at Forty Carrots Family Center.
Jackie Griese is a Professional Realtor with Michael Saunders & Company. She holds the Accredited Buyer's Representation (ABR®) and is a graduate of the University of Evansville. She possesses over 30 years of leadership and sales experience and previously, she was instrumental in creating a startup business with her husband that grew into a multimillion-dollar, multifaceted operation servicing Fortune 500 companies in the financial services, plastics, healthcare and utility industries. Today, Jackie works to understand her client's lifestyle goals, budgets, and what matters most when considering relocation to the beautiful Gulf Coast of Florida. Her clients learn very quickly she is diligent about ensuring a smooth, seamless and worry-free transition when relocating to the Gulf Coast; the next place she hopes they call home! Jackie is an active volunteer in the community as she has worked with Child Protection Center, Venice Area Chamber of Commerce, United Way, and Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Ohio Valley. She is currently a Steering Committee Member of the Van Wezel Foundation.
A long, winding road brought Jag Grewal to Sarasota 21 years ago. Born in West Malaysia, he finished elementary school and the family then moved to Singapore. At 14, they immigrated to Australia, where Jag completed high school at 16 and won a scholarship to the University of South Australia. After successfully completing a rigorous degree program in Electrical Engineering, Jag decided to join his father's property development company and learned the business. In the late 90's, his entrepreneurial spirit brought him to America. After a short stint in Arizona in property development, Jag discovered Sarasota as he was flying to Africa on a mission assignment. He completed that assignment and moved to Sarasota in December 2000.
Jag is married with four children and enjoys squash and golfing, when time permits. Prior to forming a partnership with Ian Black at Ian Black Real Estate, Jag had been with Coldwell Banker Commercial and was recognized as one of the top 5 producers worldwide, since the firm purchased Arvida Realty in 2001. Mr. Grewal has been involved in a multitude of transactions from investment grade and development to industrial properties, as well as representing Real Estate Investment Trusts, such as The Lightstone Group, iStar Financial, Starbucks, Walgreens and Prime Retail.
Past President of the Commercial Investment Division - an organization that serves all of the commercial real estate practitioners /affiliates in Sarasota County
Prestigious Commercial Realtor of the Year, awarded by his peers in December 2007
Jeff Steinwachs and his wife Ellen moved to Sarasota in 1997. Their passion for Forty Carrots Family Center began in 2003 with the birth of their first child. As new parents and as a growing family, they enrolled in and learned from the parenting classes at Forty Carrots with their three children. In addition, their children all attended the preschool at Forty Carrots. Here, Jeff learned how Forty Carrots reaches beyond its doors to so many families in our community. Wanting to help the organization further its mission of strengthening families, Jeff served as a Forty Carrots Trustee, acting as Treasurer, and as a member of the Finance Committee. He now serves as a Trustee Emeritus and continues to support the organization.
As a founding partner of Searles, Sheppard & Gornitsky, Joleen helped shape the firm's commitment to providing clients the best possible guidance, support, and knowledge to satisfy their legal needs. Joleen employs an in-depth knowledge of the estate planning field to design plans that offer clients the peace of mind that they and their heirs will be taken care of in the best way possible. She believes that, regardless of their situation, everyone should have some manner of estate plan. Joleen enjoys working with each client to craft the most optimal plan for them, no matter how simple or complex that plan might be. Joleen manages the firm's ultra- high net worth practice utilizing numerous advanced multifaceted planning solutions to help those clients navigate the many unique estate complexities and tax challenges they face. Additionally, Joleen oversees the firm's estate settlement and probate practice, assisting those who have lost loved ones through the process of settling the estate. Joleen couples her breadth of knowledge with a warm, friendly personality that puts clients and advisors at ease, even when discussing topics that are often disconcerting. Growing up an Army brat, living all over the world - across the likes of Texas, North Carolina, California, Japan, Alabama, Virginia, New York, Germany, and the list goes on, Joleen learned early to relate to people from a variety of backgrounds. She believes this enables her to look at every situation from different perspectives in order to achieve the best possible results for her clients. Joleen looks at every plan as a puzzle unique to that person and loves the opportunity to assist every client in attaining the ideal outcome. Joleen teaches continuing education seminars for financial advisors, attorneys, and other professionals for about estate planning, wealth preservation, estate settlement, and updates regarding the latest changes in the law that impact estates and taxes. Joleen has a B.A. from the University of Virginia, a J.D. from Hofstra University, and an LL.M. in Taxation from the University of Miami. She is licensed to practice law in Florida, New York, and Tennessee.
Karimu F. Hill-Harvey, retired Judge, born in Orange, New Jersey has and continues to dedicate her life to righting the wrongs experienced by people of color and promoting the economic, social, political and cultural development of African American communities.
Judge Hill-Harvey received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Seton Hall University in 1979; a Juris Doctorate at Seton Hall School of Law in 1983 and a L.LM. Masters in Trial Advocacy at Temple University, Beasley School of Law in 2000. She has been admitted to the Bars of the U.S. Supreme Court, U.S. Court of Appeals 3rd Circuit, U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey and New Jersey.
She became a Municipal Court Judge in 2000 and sat on the bench in East Orange, Irvington and Newark, until her retirement in 2014. During her tenure on the bench, she continued to operate the private practice that she founded in 1988 and served as Adjunct Professor for Rutgers Business School and Essex County College. Earlier in her career, Judge Hill-Harvey was Assistant Counsel to the Newark Board of Education Legal Department, Municipal Court Administrator for the City of East Orange, and Acting General Counsel for the Housing Authority of the City of Newark. Post-retirement, she became a Florida Supreme Court Certified Circuit Civil and Family Mediator, a Parenting Coordinator and a United States Bankruptcy Court Middle District of Florida Residential Mortgage Foreclosure Mediator.
Judge Hill-Harvey has received numerous awards and recognitions for her work and advocacy including the YMCA of Essex & West Hudson "Women of Influence Award", The Seton Hall University "Distinguished Alumni Award for Law Politics & Justice" and The National Association of Negro Business & Professional Women's Club, Inc. "Woman of Distinction Award". Of exceptional note is the fact that Judge-Hill Harvey was the first African American woman listed in the "Top 20 Verdicts and Settlements" of the New Jersey Law Journal, by obtaining a $3.25 million settlement in Grant v. LaResca in 1995
She has been acknowledged for various case laws, publications and has numerous industry membership affiliations such as the American Arbitration Association, Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Sarasota County Bar Association, George Edgecomb Bar Association, Fred G. Minnis, Sr.Bar Association and Association of Retired Attorneys of Sarasota.
Judge Hill-Harvey is a widow (Balozi Z. Harvey), with two children and 2 grandchildren. Judge Hill-Harvey continues her legacy of righting wrongs for all - particularly African Americans.
Job Titles:
- CEO at the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce
Kevin Cooper is President|CEO at The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce. Prior to his current role, Cooper was Director of Community Investment for Gulf Coast Community Foundation where he helped oversee grant administration and initiatives. His previous experience also includes having been Vice President for Public Policy and Sarasota Tomorrow Initiatives at The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce and, before that, Executive Director for the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce. Cooper was a sergeant in the United States Army National Guard, and his service included a tour of duty in Operation Iraqi Freedom. He earned his undergraduate degree in Marketing from Kent State University and an MBA from Florida State University. Cooper is active in the community, serving on a number of advisory boards.
Kevin is married to his wife, Missy, and together they parent a daughter, Violet, and a son, Cohen.
Job Titles:
- PNC in 2018 As the Market Leader
Kevin Stencik joined PNC in 2018 as the Market Leader for West and Central Florida's Commercial Banking unit, which delivers impactful advice and customized solutions to optimize the financial performance of companies, with revenues between $5mm - $50mm. Kevin has 19 years of banking experience, including both individual production and leadership roles within the commercial, business banking and retail segments.
Kim has a bachelor's degree in human services/Early Childhood Development and a master's degree in early childhood education and has worked in the field of early education and program director in Cincinnati for the past 34 years. Kim has recently relocated to Sarasota with her husband Dan and dog Max and has 4 adult daughters who love coming to visit sunny Florida.
Job Titles:
- Development Database Administrator
- Team As the New Development Database Administrator
Kristal Miller has joined the Forty Carrots Team as the new Development Database Administrator. She will be part of the development team working with the team to develop the donor database and improve data analytics. Kristal comes to Forty Carrots Family Center after working many years in print publishing, as well as a variety of corporate and governmental environments. She has lived and worked most of her life in South Florida and along the Gulf Coast.
Job Titles:
- Parenting Education Director
Laura Josephson, M.A., in Early Childhood Education and Childhood Education from Manahattanville College and a B.A. in Fine Art and Education from The University at Albany. Laura is responsible for overseeing the Parenting Education groups in both Sarasota and Manatee Counties. Laura came to the Parenting Program in 2013 with a background in Early Childhood and Middle School Education with over 8 years of teaching experience. Previous to a career in education, Laura was in corporate marketing and advertising. In addition, she was inducted into the Kappa Delta Pi International Honor Society in Education in 2010. Laura co-facilitated Partners In Play® parenting groups at Gocio Elementary, Our Mothers House, Soar in 4, as well as Sarasota and Manatee Libraries. Prior to becoming the Director she was the Parenting Program Administrator. Laura completed her Graduate Certificate in Infant Family Mental Health from USF in 2017. Laura's most recent accomplishment has been her Level One and Level Two Professional Certification in Trauma and Resilience from Florida State University and she received a Professional Workplace Certificate from the University of South Florida Corporate Training and Professional Education in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Workplace. She is a registered Circle of Security® Parenting provider and has a Florida Child Care and Education Program Director Credential.
Job Titles:
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Lauren earned her Master's of Social Work degree and Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of South Florida. In addition, Lauren completed her Graduate Certificate in Infant Family Mental Health from USF. As a native to Sarasota County and bilingual communicator (Spanish), Lauren has cultivated a specialty of working with at-risk youth and their families in Sarasota County Schools and non-profit organizations in the community. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Lauren is well-versed in providing case management and psycho-educational services. She has provided individual, group, and family counseling to children and adolescents experiencing a variety of physical and emotional issues such as sexual abuse, suicidal ideation and self-harm, grief, cognitive impairments, depression, anxiety, body image issues, previous Baker Acts ,and LGBTQIA issues.
Job Titles:
- Development Administrator
Marea carries a broad scope of knowledge and skills adding to Forty Carrots' development team's efforts. Marea holds a Master's in Design & Branding Strategy from Brunel University, and a BA in Graphic Design from IBERO University and holds a Project Management certification from the Association of Project Management. She brings an impressive background with many years managing projects and creating data driven communication strategies. Marea is a mission-driven professional excelling in highlighting organizational strengths for standout impact. Marea's passion for nonprofits grew through volunteering her expertise in building brands for this sector. Marea is a Mexican native, fluent in Spanish and English, and describes herself as intermediate in French and Italian. She is a devoted wife, and a certified yoga instructor sharing that passion with the local community.
Job Titles:
- Administrative Assistant
- in 2004 As Receptionist / Administrative Assistant
Margaret Deitsch joined Forty Carrots in 2004 as receptionist/administrative assistant at the Front Desk. Lovingly known as "Miss Margaret", the children and families look forward to her warm welcome and caring words each day. When not at Forty Carrots, she loves reading, exercising and spending time with her family.
Matthew Rogers oversees the human resources function for the organization. He is responsible for policy development and provides support, advice, and guidance to staff and managers. Matthew has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Arcadia University and holds senior level certifications from the Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM) and HR Certification Institute (HRCI). With more than two decades of professional experience, Matthew believes that people are the most valuable part of any business and finds intrinsic satisfaction in helping others realize success. Matthew is an advocate for family, mental health, and education. As a devoted husband and father of two, he joined Forty Carrots in 2022 because of his personal ambition to improve the lives of others while creating opportunities that will enrich our local community.
Michelle brings years of first-hand involvement with Forty Carrots Family Center (FCFC) along with two decades of business leadership experience to the position of Executive Director in June 2013 (with a title change to Chief Executive Officer in 2018 to reflect changes in agency growth and responsibilities of other comparably sized organizations). Her FCFC knowledge includes extensive volunteer efforts as a parent in the Parenting Program and Preschool; several key leadership positions as a five-year trustee, board officer, and chairwoman of the Governance Committee. Michelle's professional background includes leading a multimillion-dollar international import business and co-owner/CEO of several local businesses. Under Michelle's vision and leadership, Forty Carrots expanded significantly: the creation of the Child & Family Therapy department in 2014, doubling parenting education services, and prioritizing the preschool scholarship funds to ensure access to high-quality early education. Since 2013, Michelle has led the agency through multiple fundraising campaigns and program expansion initiatives including a 2015 capital campaign to expand Mental Health Services, and a current capital campaign with a new expansion initiative to significantly expand services under all three program areas.
Job Titles:
- President and CEO of the Van Wezel Foundation
- Principal of Monica Consults
Monica Van Buskirk is the Principal of Monica Consults, developing and providing marketing, branding, and fund-raising services for Sarasota area non-profit organizations. Monica's most recent contract has been with the New College Foundation to initiate and develop the Pei Residences Renewal Project. Previously, Monica had been a member of the New College Foundation Board before resigning to take on this project. Monica Consults also had contracts with the Safe Children Foundation for their marketing and fund-raising project.
Monica held the position of President and CEO of the Van Wezel Foundation from 2012-2019. During her tenure the Foundation had double digit growth. The Foundation won several awards including the 2014 Frank G. Berlin, Sr. Cultural Organization of the Year award from the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, Best Fundraising Event in Sarasota Magazine's "Best of 2016" edition and the 2017 Herald Tribune Reader's Choice for Best Non-Profit (both Sarasota & Manatee). Before becoming President and CEO of the Foundation, Monica was Vice Chairman of the Board and a Member of the Executive Committee and had been involved with the Van Wezel Foundation since 2002.
Before becoming President and CEO of the Van Wezel Foundation, Monica was a property consultant and Senior Realtor representing high net worth individuals and groups as well as Principal of Monica Consults. Monica has been a member of the Board for the Sarasota Medical Alliance Foundation and multiple year Chair for the Sarasota Chamber of Commerce Leadership luncheons.
Monica's wide range of business experience includes past President and CEO of Monica's Best Foods, a multi-line chocolate company in New York City and Boston. She had also been the Vice President of Marketing for Godiva Chocolatier, Pepperidge Farms and Campbell Soup Company, as well as a Vice President for Brentano's Book Stores and MacMillan Publishing, New York City.
Monica did undergraduate work at Columbia University, New York City, and received her BA and did graduate work in Economics at CUNY Graduate Center, New York City.
Job Titles:
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Nicole is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She earned her Master of Social Work from The University of South Florida - Sarasota/Manatee and her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from The University of Florida. Nicole is a Nationally Certified Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist (TF-CBT) who specializes in working with children and adolescents who have experienced physical and/or sexual abuse. Nicole earned her certification in Perinatal Mental Health through Postpartum Support International and has a special interest in working with parents through the pregnancy and postpartum period who may be experiencing a perinatal mood and anxiety disorder. Nicole has worked with children and families for over 10 years in multiple non-profit agencies in Sarasota County. Nicole is well-versed in working with children, adolescents, and families who present with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues and exposure to traumas. As an A Window Between Worlds facilitator, she loves incorporating art expression and other creative interventions into treatment.
Paola earned a Bachelor of Science in Health Education and a Master of Science in Health Education and Health Behavior from the University of Florida. Paola is a certified health education specialist (CHES) and has been working in the non-profit sector with diverse populations in Sarasota for the past 8 years. Prior to joining Forty Carrots, Paola provided advocacy and support to survivors of domestic violence and taught trauma-informed and age-appropriate sexual and reproductive health in schools, jails, juvenile detention centers, and substance abuse & mental health treatment centers. Paola has experience working with teens, adults, caregivers, and LGBTQ+ youth and is committed to creating an inclusive and judgement-free space for all clients to feel seen and supported.
Regina has a Bachelor of Arts in Human Ecology (Child Development) from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and started her professional career as a preschool teacher. She later switched to administrative roles and brings over 20 years of experience as an Administrative Professional. The combination of her degree in early childhood education, work experience in NAEYC accredited preschools, and her experience as an Executive Assistant allows her to effectively serve the mission, values, and goals of the organization. Her volunteer experience includes supporting organizations that offer support to disadvantaged families with young children. She enjoys creative writing, reading and literary events, and various arts and crafts in her free time.
Robert Lewandowski has a background in Human Resources, Health Management and Real Estate. Originally from Chicago, Illinois, Robert hold degrees in Psychology and Industrial Relations from Loyola University of Chicago. He retired in 2015 and has volunteered locally at the Loveland Center in Venice.
He and his wife Terry have 2 adult children, Katie and Mark. In his quiet time he enjoys golf, fishing, boating and the arts.
Job Titles:
- Finance and Data Coordinator
Shaquana Dillard joined the Forty Carrots Family in August 2021 as Finance and Data Coordinator. She brings over 5 years' experience in Administrations, Data Entry, Finance and Child Welfare Case Management. Shaquana holds an associate degree in Criminal Justice from the State College of Florida, and she also holds a bachelor's degree in Criminology from the University of South Florida. Shaquana was elated to join the Forty Carrots Family because she believes in devoting her time and energy into serving the children and families in the Sarasota/Manatee community.
Dillard is no stranger to the community. She has volunteered her time with local organizations such as the Manatee Sheriff's Department, Meals on Wheels, All Faiths Food Bank, The Sarasota County School Boards' School Readiness Program, and the Safe Children Coalition. Shaquana believes that equipping families with the support they need plays a fundamental role in the success of tomorrow's generation. In her spare time, she is a devoted mother to her two beautiful children and spends quality time with her family. Shaquana is also very fond of all types of music specifically 80s and 90s R&B. She is an avid singer and enjoys poetry and Spoken Word.
Stanley Kane served on the Forty Carrots board of trustees from its inception until his passing in July 2020 at the age of 100. Without the generosity of Stanley and Janet Kane, Forty Carrots Family Center would not have had a beginning. We are grateful to them for believing in children and families and their legacy lives on in our work of strengthening families. Stanley and Janet were the proud parents of three daughters, including Betsy Kane-Hartnett, co-founder of Forty Carrots Family Center.
Job Titles:
- Officer for Northwest Florida Region of Northern Trust
- Senior Trust Advisor
Susan R. Sakhai is a Senior Trust Advisor on the Wealth Advisory Team in our Sarasota, Florida office and is the Senior Fiduciary Officer for Northwest Florida region of Northern Trust. Susan serves as a point of contact and service provider for existing and newly developed client relationships, with a focus on estate planning and wealth transfer strategies. Susan also works closely with her clients to develop and administer customized financial planning including deposit, credit, investments, wealth transfer and business succession planning.
EDUCATION
Susan received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Political Science, cum laude, from Vanderbilt University and a Juris Doctor Degree from Emory University School of Law. While practicing law in California, she was a California Certified Specialist in Estate Planning, Trust and Probate Law.
EXPERTISE
Susan has over 18 years of experience in the area of trusts and estates. Prior to joining Northern Trust, Susan was a practicing attorney with Henderson, Caverly, Pum & Charney, in San Diego, California. She worked with high net worth clients to implement sophisticated estate plans, provide advice regarding wealth transfer strategies and administer complex trust administrations.
Susan Travers is an experienced non-profit fundraiser, volunteer coordinator, and event planner. For over 25 years she has worked with worthy organizations to support their missions of helping those in need within the community. Susan believes that one person can make a huge difference in the lives of many.
For 7 years Susan was a volunteer/mentor in the National Charity League, a Mother-Daughter philanthropic organization, focused on community service, social development and cultural experience. She, along with her daughter, completed over 500 hours of hands on community service in support of Ronald McDonald House, the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation, and Senior Services, just to name a few.
Susan was involved for 18 years with Country Club of the South Charity Guild, a 100% all-volunteer organization that raises funds and provides grants to over 50 Atlanta area non-profits who support families and children in need. Beginning as Volunteer Coordinator, then VP of PR/Marketing, VP of Fundraising, among other rolls, Co-President, the organization has raised over $4 million dollars for worthy causes.
Additionally, in 2015, Susan was the Co-Chair of the "Atlanta is Grateful" fundraiser, which netted $235K for Your Grateful Nation, dedicated to helping Special Forces Operators (Navy Seals, Green Berets, and Delta Force) transition to the executive level job market. Responsibilities included identifying, contacting, obtaining commitments from potential financial partners/supporters, as well as oversight and management of all details regarding the "Atlanta Is
Tammie Sandoval-Badger is a cum laude graduate of the State University of New York at Albany, having earned a Bachelor of Arts in English. Tammie also earned her Juris Doctor degree from the Barry University Dwayne O. Andreas School of Law and holds the designation of Certified Trust and Fiduciary Advisor® (CTFA®).
Tammie is a Principal and Senior Fiduciary Advisor for Sabal Trust Company, providing customized wealth management strategies for high-net-worth individuals and families, specializing in the areas of trust and estate administration.
She is also an active member of the Florida Bar Association and serves on the boards of the Sarasota Orchestra and Forty Carrots Family Center.
Job Titles:
- Registered Clinical Social Work Intern
Tesha earned her Bachelors in Social Sciences/Psychology from Southern New Hampshire University and her Masters degree in Social Work from the University of South Florida. As a Parenting Educator she co-facilitates weekly parenting education groups at various partner locations, including Circle of Security® Parenting groups at the Sarasota County Jail, First Step Mothers & Infants program, and at Forty Carrots. As a Therapist, Tesha works with teen parents enrolled in Riverview High School's CYESIS program in addition to working individually with children, adolescents, and families who enroll in therapy services at Forty Carrots. Tesha is a certified A Window Between Worlds facilitator.
Job Titles:
- Registered Clinical Social Work Intern
Veronica joined our team with a Bachelors in Psychology from Saint Peter's University and a Masters in Social Work from the University of Central Florida. Prior to Forty Carrots, Veronica worked with LGBTQ+ youth and seniors in multiple non-profit settings and has a background in performing arts. Since having joined the Forty Carrots team, Veronica has become A Window Between Worlds facilitator and has earned her Circle of Security® certification. Veronica provides school-based and agency-based counseling services to children, adolescents, and families. She also helps facilitate mental health groups in school-based and community-based settings.