Be the One to Realize Potential

For 65 years, Children First has helped children and families in Sarasota County realize their potential. What begins with one opportunity - a nurturing early learning environment, a caring teacher, or a parent gaining new skills - can shape the course of a child’s life and strengthen an entire family for generations.

Children First serves children and families from low-income backgrounds in Sarasota County. In total, 98% of the families we serve face financial instability and struggle to consistently meet basic needs such as housing, childcare, food, and transportation.

Through high-quality early childhood education and comprehensive family support services, Children First helps families navigate these challenges while building a strong foundation for the future.

Children from birth through age five receive nurturing early learning experiences that prepare them for kindergarten and beyond. Along the way, they benefit from developmental screenings, nutritious meals, health and wellness support, and highly credentialed educators who support their learning, confidence, and growth.

At the same time, parents are supported as their child’s first and most important teacher. Through our award-winning Families First Institute and Family Strengthening Services, caregivers can access classes in parenting, financial stability, career readiness, and other life skills that help families build stability and opportunity.

This year is especially meaningful as Children First celebrates 65 years of service to our community, alongside 30 years of leadership by President & CEO Philip Tavill, whose vision has guided the organization’s growth for three decades.

Together, this work can transform the trajectory of an entire family.

Magda first connected with Children First as a young parent determined to continue her education while raising her family. Through the support of our programs, she was able to pursue her goals while ensuring her children received high-quality early care and education.

Over time, Magda’s journey came full circle. Today she is a valued member of the Children First team, where she has grown professionally, earned a promotion, and continues pursuing higher education while supporting other families on their own path toward self-sufficiency. Magda, her husband, and their children are thriving together, reflecting the power of investing in both children and parents.

During the Giving Challenge, April 15 - 16, your gift can help provide the critical resources children and families need to succeed - from early education and family strengthening services to nutritious meals and developmental care.

Thanks to the generosity of The Patterson Foundation, every unique gift from $25 to $100 will be doubled, allowing your support to create twice the impact for children and families in our community.

Be the one who helps a child discover their potential.
Be the one who supports a parent building a stronger future.
Be the one who helps realize potential in our community.

Together, we can ensure every child and family has the opportunity to thrive.

Learn more: https://www.thegivingpartner.org/organizations/children-first-inc