Our Leadership
Kinship & Kites is led by a dedicated board committed to advocacy, transparency, and supporting families navigating autism and developmental disabilities.
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Our leadership brings together experience in healthcare, finance, and community support to ensure that every initiative is intentional, ethical, and impactful.
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We believe in building trust through action, creating accessible resources, and serving families with compassion and clarity.
President
Ruth-Marie Guada
Ruth-Marie Guada is a finance and accounting professional with over six years of experience supporting organizational operations, financial analysis, and strategic planning. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Stevenson University and is currently completing her graduate degree at Western Governors University, further strengthening her expertise in business and leadership.
A native of Cleveland, Ohio, Ruth-Marie brings both professional excellence and personal passion to her work. As a devoted mother of four, she is deeply committed to creating inclusive, supportive spaces for families particularly those navigating developmental and accessibility needs.
As the Founder and President of Kinship & Kites, Ruth-Marie combines her financial background with her lived experiences to lead with purpose, compassion, and vision. Her work is rooted in advocacy, community empowerment, and expanding access to resources for underserved families.
Vice President
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Dr. Taryn Taylor
Taryn Taylor, MD, MEd, completed her Pediatric residency training as well as her Pediatric Emergency Medicine fellowship at Johns Hopkins Hospital. Her passion for medical education led her to subsequently complete her master's in education at the University of Cincinnati. She is currently an Associate Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Virginia School of Medicine—Inova Campus and an Emergency Medicine physician-nocturnist at Inova L.J. Murphy Children's Hospital.
In addition to her expertise in treating acute illnesses and injuries in the Emergency Department, Dr. Taylor is deeply committed to advocating for children with special needs. She strives to ensure these patients receive care that is inclusive, individualized, and equitable. Dr. Taylor works closely with families to guide them through the distinctive challenges associated with their children's medical and developmental needs, helping them access resources and support for comprehensive care.
Secretary
Ashley Jackson
My name is Ashley Jackson, and I am incredibly proud to introduce myself as Secretary of Kinship and Kites. This organization was born of love, friendship, and the drive to create a space where every child can soar.
I've seen firsthand the need for more inclusive, accessible, and joyful resources for families with special needs. The vision of a mobile bookstore that isn't just a place to buy books, but a community hub built on understanding and support. That vision became Kinship and Kites: "Kinship" for the community we are building, and "Kites" as a symbol for our children, each flying beautifully in their own unique way.
As Secretary, I am the organizational backbone of our mission. My 12 years of experience as a Yeoman in the U.S. Navy prepared me to handle the important details that allow our vision to take flight. I manage our records and ensure our non-profit is built on a strong, stable foundation. I handle the paperwork so we can all focus on what truly matters: bringing accessible stories and sensory-friendly experiences to the families we serve.
I am so excited to be on this journey with all of you. I can't wait to see you at one of our mobile bookstore events and build this incredible community together.
Chenchira Tunnell
Treasurer