Children First has been recognized as a top employer in Sarasota-Manatee in the “Best Places to Work” competition for the third consecutive year. Hosted by independent firm Best Companies Group and the Sarasota Herald-Tribune, the competition identifies and recognizes our area’s top employers who demonstrate workplace excellence and are known for retaining and recruiting the best and brightest employees. 

Companies representing thousands of local employees all vied to make the list. Children First was one of four nonprofit organizations to be recognized and ultimately selected for our mission-driven approach to employment. To qualify, more than 200 staff members completed a confidential survey worth 75% of the overall score.

“As we celebrate our 60^th anniversary and my 25^th anniversary as CEO, Children First is deeply honored to be recognized as a best place to work for the third year in a row. During this tumultuous time, our amazing team has remained laser-focused on their commitment to serving our community and now, together, we celebrate them in making Children First the best place to work every day!” says CEO Philip Tavill. 

In April of this year, Children First was also named a top 50 Best Nonprofit to Work For nationwide by The Nonprofit Times. The agency also earned top honors in the 2021 Best of SRQ Local competition, receiving the Platinum award for, “Best Children’s Nonprofit,” “Best Nonprofit Leader,” “Best Organization to Provide COVID-19 Support,” “Best Nonprofit to Adapt,” and “Best Preschool,” as well as the Silver award for “Best Local Nonprofit.” 

To learn more about employment opportunities at Children First, visit childrenfirst.net/employment.

Photo courtesy of Children First