Children First, a nationally recognized nonprofit providing high-quality early childhood education and family strengthening services, has launched its 2026 Changemaker Collective with a $600,000 matching gift challenge as the organization celebrates 65 years of strengthening children and families.

Every Changemaker gift will be matched dollar-for-dollar, doubling its impact in support of Children First’s comprehensive services. Children learn and grow in safe, nurturing classrooms while receiving nutritious meals and snacks, developmental support, and access to health and wellness services. Parents and caregivers also receive resources, education, and guidance to pursue their goals and build stronger futures for their families.

Funds will also support the Future Scholars Fund, a 529 College Savings Plan initiative that helps families begin saving for their children’s future education, extending Children First’s investment in their success beyond the early learning years.

The key philanthropists comprising the 2026 Changemaker Collective include: Anonymous; Liza & Carl Caruso; the Jean J. and Laurence S. DeLynn Foundation; Lisa & John Giglio; Robin & Roy Grossman; Alexandra Jupin & John Bean; the late Brock Leach & Julie Leach; Joan & Dr. Bart Levenson; Keith Monda & Veronica Brady; Linda Rhault; Gaye & Jack Schwarz; Joe & Nora Stephan; and Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.

Children First has once again been named a Head Start Program of Excellence for 2025-2030, placing the organization among the top 1% of more than 1,600 Head Start programs nationwide. The recognition reflects the comprehensive approach at the heart of the Changemaker Collective: investing in the whole family and creating opportunities that can last a lifetime.

To make a gift and have your support matched dollar-for-dollar through the 2026 Changemaker Collective, visit www.childrenfirst.org/donate.

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 visit www.childrenfirst.org.
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