On March 27th, a group from the Sarasota-Manatee Chapter of the National Council of Jewish Women attended a “Lunch & Learn” at Children First’s Marieb Early Learning Center. NCJW member and Children First Forever Ambassador Norma Cohen welcomed the group and spoke from her heart about why Children First is important to her.

Vice President of Philanthropy Jessica Rogers introduced everyone to the mission of Children First, and shared the importance of positive early childhood education outcomes in our community.

The women of the NCJW received information about volunteerism within our agency and learned about RISE, a program for Children First graduates attending Booker Elementary School with continued support and social services for the children as well as their families. RISE students have access to their very own mentors, and the program has recently grown to service children through the 5^th grade.

Following lunch, the women toured the classrooms to see first-hand the crucial work teachers and staff are engaged in each day to strengthen our children and families. Children First is deeply grateful for the NCJW for spending time learning about our organization, and looks forward to future partnership opportunities.