About Us

Branching Tree is a group of families who are co-creating an inclusive residential care community with a community-based day program for young adults with autism, and intellectual and developmental disabilities. Our combined lived experiences ensure that the community will remain values-driven and responsive to real-life needs. Our vision centers on fostering belonging, dignity, and meaningful connection for every person. Meet our co-founders below.

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Our Mission

Branching Tree is committed to providing inclusive housing and meaningful daily experiences for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, fostering independence, dignity, and well-being. We empower individuals to lead fulfilling lives through strong community connections and a true sense of belonging.

Abstract illustration of seven leaves in shades of green and purple.

Watch Our August Info Meeting

Our Values

  • Person-centered supports

  • Meaningful relationships

  • Interdependence vs. isolation

  • Shared leadership and decision-making

  • Sustainability and stewardship

  • Respect for the whole person

  • Smiling woman with short blond hair, wearing a yellow top, standing in front of a patterned tapestry with birds and floral designs.

    Dotty Foley

    CO-FOUNDER

    Dotty is a lifelong disability advocate, educator, and nonprofit co-founder with over 30 years of experience supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. She is a facilitator for Pathways to Friendship at The Arc of Massachusetts and co-founded HOPE NC, a nonprofit advancing inclusive housing and community. Dotty has led statewide initiatives focused on housing, human rights, and systems change. Grounded in compassion and person-centered values, Dotty lives in Rockport, MA, and is the proud parent of Emma and Dylan.

  • A smiling bald man wearing glasses and a navy blazer, in front of a bookshelf filled with books.

    Mike Manno

    CO-FOUNDER

    Mike has an extensive marketing and finance background working with several Fortune 100 corporations, including HSBC, Citizen’s Bank, and CVS, leading customer acquisition, engagement, and retention programs. He is also a co-founder and former Treasurer of Special Kids Connect in Monterey County, CA. Mike is the dedicated father of Marcus, a non-speaking young man with profound Autism and an intellectual disability. Mike resides in Walpole, MA with his wife, Sabrina, their two daughters, Madeleine and Gabrielle, plus two cats, and a dog.

  • Close-up photograph of a smiling woman with shoulder-length brown hair, wearing pearl earrings and a dark red top, outdoors with green trees and sunlight in the background.

    Sabrina Manno

    CO-FOUNDER

    Sabrina brings to Branching Tree her breadth and depth of experience in corporate marketing, nonprofit leadership, and as the parent of a non-speaking young man with profound Autism and an intellectual disability. She currently works as the Director of Marketing for League School for Autism, and previously co-founded Special Kids Connect, a California nonprofit for individuals with developmental disabilities. She lives in Walpole, MA with her husband, Mike, their two daughters, Madeleine and Gabrielle, plus two cats, and a dog.