We are proud to honor Helen Jones Dixon, who was the first ever student enrolled with the historic Newtown Day Nursery, now Children First, alongside her sister Katherine in 1938. Helen was given a plaque from CEO Philip Tavill to commemorate this incredible achievement. With roots running deep in the Newtown community, Helen is a long-time advocate for children and families in need. Congratulations Helen! It is with the help of trailblazers like you that Children First continues to transform lives, now and into the future. ... See MoreSee Less
Check out this fun event by Suncoast Charities for Children!Suncoast Charities for Children is a local non-profit located in Sarasota County. Net revenues raised from special events like this one enable Suncoast Charities for Children to provide financial support to several local non-profits, including Children First. Thank you, Suncoast Charities for Children! ... See MoreSee Less
“My father gave me the greatest gift anyone could give another person: He believed in me.” - Jim ValvanoWishing you a very happy Father's Day, from our family to yours. We hope you enjoy your special day! ... See MoreSee Less
We are absolutely thrilled and honored to receive the title of Nonprofit of the Year from the Greater Sarasota Chamber at this year's Small Business Awards!This award is recognition of the work we do with our children and families every single day, and a reflection of our laser focus on mission. It’s also an acknowledgement of the incredible innovation of our staff and Leadership Team, children and families, Board of Directors, parent-led Policy Council, volunteers, and supporters. Congratulations to our fellow honorees in the Nonprofit of the Year category, Teen Court of Sarasota, Inc. and Senior Friendship Centers, and to all of the 27 fabulous nominees and winners! We would also like to congratulate our community partners who were honored today, without whom our work would not be possible: Jamie Kahns and team at Bank of America, Jeff Jackson and team at PGT Innovations, David and Stacey Crawford and team at Catalist Realty, and the wonderful team at Michael Saunders & Company. At Children First we like to say, “Many hands make light work of heavy lifting.” Without a helping hand, the burden can easily become too great to bear, so we wish to thank every single person who continues to make the difference for those we serve. On behalf of the entire Children First family, thank you to the Sarasota Chamber of Commerce for recognizing our agency as the 2022 Nonprofit of the Year! 🥳 ... See MoreSee Less
SARASOTA (May 12th, 2017)–There weren’t any bottles popped at this winefest event, but for good reason — it was all about honoring the organization’s charitable mission.
The Florida Winefest & Auction mission statement is “To provide funding to qualified charitable organizations for programs assisting disadvantaged children, youth and families in Sarasota and Manatee Counties,” and the [...]
A MEANINGFUL GIFT
Maybe she helped you learn to ride a bike and comforted you when you fell, or read your favorite book aloud, over and over again… Perhaps she nursed you when you were sick and cooked chicken noodle soup… Maybe it was her advice that got you through a tough time in school, [...]
SARASOTA (April 12th, 2017)– Jo Rutstein served on the Children First Board of Directors from 2009-14, but her impact is still being felt. Recently, the organization hung a sign reading “Jo’s Place” near its new playground. It recognizes her help in securing a grant to fund the new playground from the Rotary Club of Sarasota, [...]
SARASOTA (March 29th, 2017)– Decorated with giant, colorful flowers and toadstools — not to mention twinkling pixies with a sprinkle of pixie dust, of course — the Michael’s on East ballroom was transformed recently into a child’s fantasyland for the Fairytale Ball, benefiting Children First.
Nearly 350 elegantly attired guests — with a few even donning [...]