Out of This World! themed event highlights important role parents and caregivers play in helping children succeed
Children First, which is ranked in the top 1% of more than 1,600 Head Start programs nationwide, celebrated the close of its 2025-2026 school year “with two special traditions honoring the growth, achievements, and bright futures of children and families across the agency’s programs,” the organization has announced.
Those were the annual Galaxy Awards and Kindergarten-Riser celebrations, a news release notes.
“Held May 14 at Hotel Venezia, the 2026 Galaxy Awards welcomed nearly 160 guests for an inspiring evening recognizing families for accomplishments in education, employment, family life, and engagement in their child’s learning journey,” the release explains. “This year’s Out of This World! themed celebration highlighted the important role parents and caregivers play in helping children succeed,” the release adds.
The event also “celebrated the leadership of Children First’s parent-led Policy Council, with Chair Catherine sharing reflections on the importance of parent voice and involvement,” the release continues. Board member and former Children First parent Kenny also shared his family’s story and the lasting impact the program had on his son, Matthew, “now thriving in elementary school,” the release notes.
“Although each family comes to us with different goals and challenges, we could not be prouder of all they have accomplished,” said Kathleen Sullivan, vice president of Children First programs, in the release. “The progress our families make in their lives, and for their children, is truly inspiring,” Sullivan added.
Further, Children First has recognized “the generous supporters of the 2026 Galaxy Awards,” the release says. They are Galaxy Award sponsors Linda Monda, Valerie Donahue and Thomas Zahn; Reach for the Stars sponsor Sir Speedy; and The Future’s Bright sponsors Kathy and Tom Cook, Lisa and John Giglio, and the MITER Foundation and PGT Custom Windows & Doors.
“Across the agency, Children First also celebrated 74 Kindergarten-Risers preparing for their transition to elementary school this fall,” the release points out.
Additionally, the organization has extended its special thanks to The Zenith Insurance Co. “for providing backpacks filled with educational books and activities to support learning beyond the classroom. Children First also extends its gratitude to University Park Country Club Nine Hole LGA and its generous members for helping provide additional school supplies for each child’s backpack,” the release notes.
“Children First strengthens children and families by improving the quality of their lives through a comprehensive approach to development, education, health, and well-being,” the release explains. “At multiple sites throughout Sarasota County, Children First offers full-day preschool, infant and toddler care, and nutrition and health care assistance to children” from birth to age 5 who are members of low-income families.
For more information, call 941-953-3877 or go to childrenfirst.net.