Children First has once again been named a 2026 Sarasota-Manatee Top Workplace, continuing its distinction as a Founding Winner and one of the few organizations recognized every year since the local workplace awards began.

The honor is based entirely on confidential employee feedback, making it a direct reflection of the experience and perspectives of the Children First team.

The local recognition builds on an exciting year nationally. Children First was also named a 2026 USA TODAY Top Workplace and received five Top Workplaces Culture Excellence Awards for Employee Well-Being, Professional Development, Innovation, Work-Life Flexibility, and Purpose & Values.

“Our team brings extraordinary skill, compassion, and commitment to our mission each day. As we celebrate our 65th anniversary, this recognition is especially meaningful because it comes directly from the voices of our employees,” said Children First President & CEO Philip Tavill, who is also celebrating his 30th year with the organization.

About Children First:

Founded in 1961 and ranked in the top 1% out of over 1,600 Head Starts nationwide, Children First’s mission is: Strengthening 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 www.childrenfirst.org.
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