Spirit of Giving: CHILDREN FIRST

CHILDREN FIRST

1723 N. ORANGE AVENUE SARASOTA, FL 34234 941-953-3877 CHILDRENFIRST.NET

AT CHILDREN FIRST, WE BELIEVE EVERY CHILD DESERVES THE OPPORTUNITY TO ACHIEVE THEIR FULL POTENTIAL.

Ranked in the top 1 percent of over 1,800 Head Start programs in the country, our agency has provided high-quality early childhood education and family strengthening services to pregnant women, children ages birth to five, and their families for 60 years. As a Head Start Program of Excellence, Children First is one of nine agencies nationwide to receive this coveted designation, and one of just two to be named so four consecutive times. The education, care, and comprehensive services we offer ensure a healthy and strong foundation for success. Through Children First, children develop the social, emotional, and cognitive skills needed to enter kindergarten on track, and receive nutritious meals and an array of services to support their overall health. Every family works with a Family Advocate to set and meet financial, educational, and occupational goals. Advocates provide the encouragement and resources families need to move out of poverty. We support parents as the primary educators for their children and aim to assist parents in learning new skills as they work to accomplish goals and achieve self-sufficiency. An investment in children at their earliest age will pay social, educational, and economic dividends over the course of a child’s lifetime now, and for generations to come. As we celebrate our 60th anniversary, your philanthropy enables us to offer what every child and family deserves—access to the services they need to thrive and opportunities for success.

Children First’s mission is to strengthen children and families by improving the quality of their lives through a comprehensive approach to development, education, health, and well-being.

As the exclusive Early Head Start and Head Start provider for Sarasota County, our agency offers services at 15 locations across North Port, Sarasota, and Venice. We envision a vibrant community that cherishes education, provides opportunities for children and families to grow and thrive, and encourages and empowers families in supporting their children. Our award-winning Families First Institute offers free courses to parents and the public including parenting, budgeting, and career readiness to help families achieve self-sufficiency. Nearly 89 percent of families enrolled at Children First live at or below the Federal Poverty Level. The generosity of our community ensures children and families receive comprehensive services at little or no cost. Thank you to our families, staff, board of directors, volunteers, and supporters!