Change a Child's Life

One of the greatest dignities of humankind is that each successive generation is invested in the welfare of each new generation. Fred Rogers, Humanitarian and Television Personality
Ethna & Ted Wishnie are long-time supporters who created an endowment fund with Children First in loving memory of their son, Eric.
In 2020, they made the decision to double their initial bequest and legacy gift.
“Eric, through his education, learning and traveling, had such a wonderful, fulfilling life. We wanted to honor that as we feel education gives children a chance to prosper. We love that when they take care of a child, it encompasses the whole family. It is a wholesome way to teach children, break unhealthy cycles, and put them on a level playing field."
- Ethna & Ted
Please click here to read more about the Wishnie's commitment to Children First Forever and the legacy they will leave for future generations.


Inspired by their personal stories, Al & Norma Cohen chose to direct their legacy donation to Children First’s endowment fund in 2018,
creating our legacy society, Children First Forever, and becoming our agency's first ambassadors.
“Children First needs an endowment fund that generates funds every year, which allows them to do planning over multiple years. We chose to make a substantial legacy grant to kick this off. The inordinate effort an organization like this must devote just to keep going year after year is enormous. An endowment can allow resources to be devoted to helping more children and families.”
- Al Cohen
“Children First needs an endowment fund that generates funds every year, which allows them to do planning over multiple years. We chose to make a substantial legacy grant to kick this off. The inordinate effort an organization like this must devote just to keep going year after year is enormous. An endowment can allow resources to be devoted to helping more children and families.”
- Al Cohen
To read more about the Cohens, their commitment, and the creation of our legacy society, please click here!
There are many different ways to create your legacy, depending on your personal goals.
Please click here to view our full brochure!
Some options include:
The above are just a few ways to make a significant legacy gift, and there are many more.
Please contact Vice President of Philanthropy, Jessica Rogers, at: or 941-953-3877 ext. 1115 to learn more about a tax-wise investment for your future, and the future of Children First.