Children First, a nationally recognized nonprofit delivering high-quality early childhood education and family strengthening programs, is celebrating a defining year in its history, marking 65 years of strengthening children and families alongside 30 years of leadership by Chief Executive Officer Philip Tavill.

Founded in 1961 by the Junior Welfare League, now the Junior League of Sarasota, Children First has grown into one of the highest-performing Head Start organizations in the nation. Today, the agency ranks in the top 1% of more than 1,600 Head Start programs nationwide, reflecting decades of commitment to quality, accountability, and whole-family support.

Since joining Children First in 1996, Tavill has guided the organization through sustained growth and innovation - expanding Early Head Start services to include infants as young as six weeks old, strengthening family-centered programming, and building partnerships that support children and families far beyond the classroom.

That commitment continues to be recognized at the highest levels. In 2025, Children First was accredited by the National Head Start Association as a Program of Excellence for the fifth time, earning designation for the 2025 - 2030 term. This prestigious five-year recognition is awarded to programs that demonstrate the highest standards in management and service performance, ensuring measurable and lasting outcomes for children and families.

Children First was also named one of the 2025 Best Nonprofits to Work For by The NonProfit Times - its third national recognition and second consecutive year. The organization ranked #28 overall and #9 among mid-sized nonprofits nationwide.

As Children First reflects on its legacy, it is also preparing for the future. The community is invited to celebrate these milestones at Children First’s 26th Annual Fairytale Ball: Little Lives, Lasting Legacy on Saturday, April 11, 2026. Proceeds from the event directly support Children First’s programs and services for children and families throughout Sarasota County.

About Children First:

Founded in 1961 and ranked in the top 1% out of over 1,600 Head Starts nationwide, Children First strengthens children and families by improving the quality of their lives through a comprehensive approach to development, education, health, and well-being. At multiple sites throughout Sarasota County, Children First offers full-day preschool, infant and toddler care, and nutrition and health care assistance to children ages birth to five years old from low-income families. Through Children First, the children receive the social and cognitive skills needed to enter kindergarten and elementary school on track. For more information, call (941) 953-3877 or go to childrenfirst.net.
###