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Our Impact

Two young girls solving a puzzle in a classroom
Two girls posing for a photo at a park

Impact Report

View our impact report highlighting the 2024-2025 school year to see the positive impact we’ve had on our families.

View Impact Report PDF file

Early childhood education is a fundamental component of future success, from small communities to global enterprises. Children First is based on the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to dream big and achieve his or her full potential. Our programs are designed to strengthen families and empower them to make positive change, while instilling a love of learning in young children who face real adversity.

As a five-time nationally recognized Programs of Excellence out of 1,600 Head Start organizations in the U.S. and ranked in the top 1%, Children First is making great strides in the local community. The Head Start model promoted by the National Head Start Association (NHSA), involves support of the whole child, including the family and the community.

0%
of families whose children attend our program are working or attending school.
0
young students from Children First are starting Kindergarten this year, ready and on-pace with their peers.
0%
of our students have a diagnosed disability, receiving on-site therapy to help overcome the challenge.
0%
of a child’s nutritional needs are received while in Children First’s care, thanks to healthy breakfasts, lunches, and afternoon snacks each day.

Head Start aims to meet the needs of young children through four major components:

Education

Offering a variety of learning experiences to help children grow physically, cognitively, socially, and emotionally.

Health

Providing immunizations, hearing and eye screenings, dental checks, nutritional services, and early identification of emotional or physical health problems.

Parent Involvement

Involving parents in the planning and implementation of activities. Parents serve on policy councils and committees that make administrative decisions; participate in classes and workshops on child development; and volunteer.

Social Services

Providing outreach for families to determine necessary services, and connecting them to local resources.

Want to Learn More?

Visit the National Head Start Association’s website.

Visit NHSA
The National Head Start Association Logo. Each of these letters is a block that children play with: N, H, S, A

Innovative Practices

Innovative Staff Wellness Practices

Children First’s innovative staff wellness practices go beyond the traditional approach of providing basic amenities; they involve creative strategies that address the multifaceted needs of employees in novel and impactful ways.

Learn More about Innovative Staff Wellness Practices

There are two sweet treats, one looks to be a donut in the shape of an elephant, and the other looks like a cupcake. Both are covered in sprinkles and are pink. The packaging reads: You're Elephantastic

Partners for Green Places

Partners for Green Places was launched in October of 2019 with the goal of encouraging organizations and businesses to commit to energy efficiency and sustainability.

Learn More about Partners for Green Places

A birds eye view of the Solar PV System that was installed at the agency's main campus in Sarasota

Green Practices

By incorporating eco-friendly initiatives, Children First not only reduces its carbon footprint but also sets a vital example for the young minds it nurtures.

Learn More about Green Practices

Two young girls watering a vegetable garden on a sunny day